Heritage Open Day: Visit England’s oldest gaol and relive important moments from our region's turbulent past. Hexham Old Gaol explores crime and punishment from 1333 to Victorian times, and tells the story of the infamous Border Reivers.
Opened in 1333, Hexham Old Gaol is the oldest purpose-built prison in
England. The Old Gaol was used until the 1820s when it became a bank and solicitors’ office.
• Learn about the Border Reivers – local families including the Charltons, Dodds,
Milburns and Robsons, famous for causing trouble.
• Discover more about Northumberland’s challenging history as a border county.
• Don’t miss the free daily talks and tours.