Hexham Old Gaol
Built in the 1330s, this is thought to be England's oldest purpose-built prison. Today it is a small museum telling the history of the border reivers.
Hexham Old Gaol was built in the 1330s and is considered the earliest prison in England built specifically for that purpose. Its thick stone tower once held "reivers", raiders from the Anglo-Scottish border. It is now a museum that uses artifacts and multimedia displays to explore border family feuds, executions and prison life. A glass lift takes visitors down to the dungeon. It stands near the market square beside the abbey. It is small and open only on certain days.
Opening hours
Usually Tue–Sat 10:00–16:30 (check official site)
Nearby sights
- Hexham Abbey
- Chesters Roman Fort
- Corbridge Roman Town
- Aydon Castle
- Temple of Mithras, Carrawburgh
- Allen Banks & Staward Gorge
- Housesteads Roman Fort
- Vindolanda