Town gardens and a short park walk / HEXHAM

Abbey Grounds and the Sele

Immediately beside the Abbey, these connected green spaces let you slow down without leaving central Hexham. Formal planting and the bandstand give way to open grass, mature trees and the larger Sele. It is an easy addition to a church or museum visit, with enough space for a picnic or a longer loop when the weather is kind.

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Bandstand and paths in the Abbey Grounds beside the Sele — Photo: G Laird

Before you go

The grounds change level: choose a short route around the Abbey if you want to avoid the Sele’s steeper slopes and flights of steps.

The practical details

Where to find it: West and south of Hexham Abbey, with approaches from Beaumont Street, Hencotes and Cowgarth.
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: No ordinary garden-entry ticket is required. Events and temporary work can change use of individual areas. Bring food from town for a picnic and use daylight for unfamiliar paths.
Access and getting around: The historic layout includes surfaced walks, steep banks and steps between levels. Choose an entrance and route to suit your mobility rather than assuming every circuit is level. Council information lists public accessible toilets at the Sele; check local opening notices.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Open grass gives children a break from interiors. The Sele play area has a 2026 redevelopment programme; check current access before promising a playground visit. Keep the outing worthwhile as a park walk or picnic if equipment is unavailable.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 30–60 minutes for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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