Viator Rating : 5 (24 reviews)
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Hexham's Gruesome History: A Walking Tour
60
Overview
Gruesome Tour of Hexham: Discover the dark side of this historic Northumberland town. This easy walking tour is perfect for anyone looking for things to do in Hexham, especially outdoor activities. It's even dog-friendly!
The journey begins at the Moot Hall in Hexham Market Place. The tour follows a gentle, circular route, about 1 km long, showing you beautiful spots rarely seen by most visitors. Pass by Hexham Abbey, Sele Park, and Cockshaw before returning to the Market Place.
An experienced guide will bring Hexham's hidden history to life. Learn about crime and punishment, Hexham's own massacre, and the fight to save Hexham Abbey. Hear about the tanner's hard life and how bad hygiene was in the 1800s. This tour includes an storytelling guide. All refreshments are excluded. Key stops include Hexham Market Place, Hexham Abbey, Sele Park, Hexham Old Gaol, and Hexham House Grounds. 
Highlights
Explore Hexham's Dark Past: Discover the gruesome stories and hidden secrets of this historic town.
Walk Through Hidden Gems: See beautiful spots rarely seen by typical tourists.
Knowledgeable Storytelling Guide: A friendly guide brings Hexham's history to life with engaging stories.
Dog-Friendly Fun: Bring your furry friend along for this accessible outdoor activity.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the tour guide, Helen, and how she brought Hexham's history to life.
-
Visitors enjoyed exploring hidden parts of Hexham.
-
People found it interesting to learn about the town's smelly and violent past.
-
The tour kept everyone interested and was very informative.
Refreshments not included.
The Journey
Hexham Market Place
Begin your Hexham adventure in the heart of the historic Market Place. This bustling hub has been the town's commercial and social center for centuries. Imagine the lively atmosphere of bygone eras as you stroll through the square, admiring the architecture and soaking up the ambiance. It is the perfect starting point to immerse yourself in Hexham's rich heritage.
Hexham Abbey
Step into the imposing Hexham Abbey, a testament to centuries of faith and resilience. Hear tales of Hexham's bloodiest days within its ancient walls, then wander through the serene Abbey gardens, picturing the repeated attacks from invaders that this sacred place endured. Discover the Anglo-Saxon crypt, a remarkable survival from the original 7th-century monastery, and marvel at the stunning architecture that showcases various eras of construction. This is an opportunity for memorable photographs.
Sele Park
Escape the bustle of the town and unwind in the picturesque Sele Park. This green oasis offers a tranquil retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens, scenic walking paths, and inviting picnic spots. Discover the park's hidden corners and enjoy a moment of peace surrounded by nature. Whether you're seeking a relaxing stroll or a place to connect with the outdoors, Sele Park provides a refreshing escape.
Hexham Old Gaol
Descend into the chilling world of the Hexham Old Gaol, one of the oldest purpose-built prisons in England. Discover the harsh realities of prison life in centuries past as you explore the gaol's cells, dungeons, and courtroom. Uncover the hidden gems and grim tools of one of history's toughest and most gruesome jobs, offering a dark but fascinating insight into law and order through the ages.
Hexham House Grounds
Wander through the enchanting Hexham House grounds, a verdant oasis showcasing beautiful gardens and serene landscapes. Stroll along the tree-lined paths, admire the manicured lawns, and discover hidden corners perfect for reflection. Capture the beauty of the surroundings in memorable photographs, creating lasting reminders of your Hexham visit. It is a wonderful photo opportunity.
Hexham Market Place (Concluding)
Conclude your Hexham journey back at the historic Market Place, where you'll hear the less 'prettier' side of Hexham's tales. Reflect on the town's vibrant past and its enduring spirit as you stand amidst the familiar surroundings. This final stop provides a complete picture of Hexham, balancing its picturesque charm with the realities of its rich and complex history.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes an experienced storytelling guide who will lead you through the gruesome history of Hexham. Refreshments are not included, so it's a good idea to bring your own drinks and snacks. The tour starts at Hexham Market Place and ends there as well. It does not include pickup and drop off.
Hot Tip
Locals who have lived in Hexham for years were surprised to learn new things about the town's history on this tour, even about how stinky the town was in the past. Be prepared for some walking and wear comfortable shoes!
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Gruesome Tour of Hexham is informative, entertaining, and well-presented by a knowledgeable local guide. Many highlight the guide’s engaging storytelling, the tour’s accessibility, and its quirky, memorable content. A few reviewers mention the short duration but appreciate the concise, lively experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Edinburgh
£475
Discover Edinburgh's Charm: A Luxurious Private 4-Hour Tour
5.0
(172 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
The Private 4-Hour Tour of Edinburgh offers an immersive experience through the city's Old and New Towns in a spacious Mercedes. An experienced driver-guide provides live commentary and historical context, ensuring a memorable exploration of iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Perfect for time-constrained visitors.
Edinburgh
£18
Edinburgh's Old Town: History & Tales Walking Tour
4.9
(2162 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh gives everyone a good look at Edinburgh's story and culture. It's a walking tour that takes about two hours. It shows many places in the Old Town, a place that UNESCO says is special.
This tour is fun and tells a lot about Edinburgh. People will see cool places and learn why they are important. The guide knows a lot and loves sharing about the city. Expect to walk through the Old Town of Edinburgh. See the old buildings and hear stories about the people who lived there.
A professional guide is there to help. This walking tour does not include tips for the guide. This tour will be an experience to remember.
York
£13
Uncover York's Haunted History: Shadows Ghost Walk Adventure
4.9
(1385 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Shadows of York: Ghost Walk explores York's dark past through haunted streets. This PG-rated tour unveils tragic history with unexplained sightings. Traverse snickleways and discover eerie shadows, enriched with historic details of executions and plague. Best things to remember are in-depth historic details, some of which can be dark, sad or gory. Not recommended for children under 8.
York
£25
York's Villainous History & Rum Tasting Tour
5.0
(103 reviews)
Duration: 30
minutes
Villainous History and Rum Tasting Tour in York: Step into a world of shadows and secrets at Villains Rum of York, a stone's throw from Stonegate. This isn't just a tour; it's an immersive indoor experience where York’s dark past comes alive. A villainous guide leads a small group through tales of plotters, poisoners, kings, and cutthroats—the real-life rogues who inspired the unique rums.
Expect to uncover the gripping stories of York's most notorious villains, brought to life with captivating storytelling, humor, and historical accuracy. The experience includes sampling handcrafted, locally inspired rums, each carefully linked to the villainous tale being told. Gin and alcohol-free options are also available for those who prefer them. The tour unfolds entirely inside Villains Rum's immersive rum shop, a villainous hideaway where the shadows always await, rain or shine.
This experience is perfect for history buffs, rum lovers, and anyone with a curious mind. Participants will be guided by live costumed villains, while discovering the true dark history of York’s most infamous characters. This includes alcoholic beverages to sample. This experience does not include anything that is not stated.
Edinburgh
£18
Edinburgh Witches Tour: Vaults & Old Town Secrets
4.9
(629 reviews)
Edinburgh Witches Old Town Walking Tour & Underground Vault invites everyone to uncover Edinburgh's spooky past. This walking tour, led by a fun guide, mixes real history with exciting stories for a memorable adventure through Edinburgh Old Town. See places like St. Giles' Cathedral & Parliament Square, the Royal Mile, and hidden courtyards.
Hear the stories of the women accused of witchcraft in Scotland. Learn about their lives, the accusations they faced, and the unfair treatment they suffered. The tour might even share some cool facts about characters from Outlander and Harry Potter! This tour explores the hidden gems and iconic streets of Edinburgh's Old Town, walking along its famous cobbles.
The tour ends with a special 15-minute visit to “The Lost Close.” This underground vault, hidden since a big fire in 1824, dates back to 1742. It's a peek into the past and a great way to finish exploring history and mystery.
York
£120
Yorkshire Dales Tour: 'All Creatures Great & Small'
5.0
(109 reviews)
Duration: 510
minutes
The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small tour offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes made famous by the beloved TV series. This small-group tour, limited to just six people, explores the hidden backroads and unspoiled countryside of James Herriot Country, inaccessible to larger tour groups.
Travelers will discover the rolling moors and lush valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, visit the fascinating 'World of James Herriot Museum' in Thirsk, and explore the ancient crypt beneath Ripon Cathedral. Along the way, discover the picturesque villages and breathtaking scenery showcased in 'All Creatures Great & Small.' The tour includes exploring Wharfedale & Wensleydale, visiting Grassington (the fictional Darrowby), and Alderson's Farm at Yockenthwaite. A visit to the Wensleydale Creamery provides a chance to taste local cheese, and countless photo opportunities await throughout the Yorkshire Dales.
What to Expect: The tour includes a local, experienced driver/guide, transportation by air-conditioned minibus, and an entrance ticket to the World of James Herriot Museum in Thirsk. Live commentary is provided onboard, along with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off from accommodations in York city center. Please note that food, drinks, and gratuities are not included.
Nearby Events
OVO Hydro
Oct 06
6:30 PMThe World of Hans Zimmer - Glasgow OVO Hydro
The World of Hans Zimmer – A New Dimension takes over Glasgow's OVO Hydro on October 6, 2026, presenting an extraordinary live concert experience curated by the legendary Academy Award® and Grammy® Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer himself. This internationally acclaimed concert series features an emotional journey through Zimmer's most iconic film scores, brought to life by conductor Matt Dunkley, world-class soloists from Zimmer's talent pool, the Odessa Orchestra & Friends, and the Nairobi Chamber Chorus.
The production combines Zimmer's unique orchestral suites with visually stunning projections, powerful sound arrangements, and moving solo performances to create a multisensory cinematic experience. The OVO Hydro, one of Europe's largest arena venues, provides the perfect setting for this breathtaking spectacle that has already captivated over 1.2 million fans worldwide.
O2 City Hall Newcastle
Feb 18
7:00 PMRoss Noble Live at O2 City Hall Newcastle 2026
Ross Noble brings his wildly inventive stand-up comedy to O2 City Hall Newcastle in a night of unscripted brilliance and surreal tangents. Known for his lightning-fast improvisation and boundless energy, Noble turns audience interaction into a masterclass in spontaneous humour, making every show a one-of-a-kind experience.
Ross Noble is one of the most celebrated stand-up comedians of his generation, with a career spanning sold-out runs at the Edinburgh and Melbourne Comedy Festivals, West End musicals, and cult film roles. O2 City Hall Newcastle, a historic and acoustically excellent venue in the heart of the city, provides the perfect setting for this homecoming gig from the Geordie comedy legend.
OVO Hydro
Feb 05
6:00 PMMotionless In White Live at OVO Hydro Glasgow
Motionless In White takes the stage at OVO Hydro in Glasgow, delivering a powerful metalcore concert experience for fans of metal and nu-metal. Known for their theatrical blend of gothic, industrial, and heavy metal, the band showcases tracks from their acclaimed recent album 'Scoring the End of the World,' cementing their reputation as one of the genre’s leading acts.
Formed in Scranton, Pennsylvania in 2004, Motionless In White has evolved into an influential force with chart-topping albums like 'Reincarnate' and 'Graveyard Shift.' OVO Hydro, one of Scotland’s premier venues, provides the perfect setting to witness their intense live performance, combining high production values and an electric atmosphere for metal enthusiasts.
Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
Feb 09
7:30 PMStardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons Glasgow Tickets
Stardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons brings the beloved farming simulator's enchanting soundtrack to life at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, featuring a 35-piece orchestra performing brand new arrangements curated by game creator ConcernedApe. Attendees will embark on a musical journey from their first day in Pelican Town to the summit, watching their virtual farm grow through all four seasons while exploring iconic locations like the Skull Cavern, Ginger Island, and the Wizard's Tower on a custom visual experience.
Since its 2016 launch, Stardew Valley has captured the hearts of over 20 million players worldwide with its peaceful gameplay and quietly stirring original score composed entirely by Eric Barone. This concert represents a triumphant return following the 2024 chamber orchestra tour, now expanded with a full symphony orchestra and exclusive visual content created specifically for this tour. Glasgow Royal Concert Hall stands as Scotland's premier venue for world-class classical performances and live experiences.
Perth Concert Hall
May 07
7:30 PMSimon Reeve: To The Ends Of The Earth | Perth
Simon Reeve: To The Ends Of The Earth brings the acclaimed broadcaster and adventurer to Perth Concert Hall on May 7, 2026. Known for his groundbreaking travel documentaries and exploration series, Reeve takes audiences on an inspiring journey through his most extraordinary expeditions to the world's most remote and fascinating destinations. This theatrical event combines storytelling, visuals, and insights from decades of globe-trotting adventure.
Simon Reeve has built an international reputation as one of television's most respected travel journalists, documenting cultures, wildlife, and environments across every continent. His live tours are intimate yet grand, offering audiences exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and never-before-seen footage from his adventures. Perth Concert Hall, a 1,200-capacity theatre located at Mill Street in the heart of Perth, provides an ideal setting for this immersive evening of exploration and discovery.
Utilita Arena Newcastle
Mar 21
7:30 PMGreg Davies Full Fat Legend Newcastle 2026
Greg Davies - Full Fat Legend takes to the stage at Utilita Arena Newcastle on March 21, 2026, featuring one of Britain's most acclaimed stand-up comedians. Davies, the sharp-witted creator and star of Channel 4's critically lauded sitcom Man Down and long-time host of the panel show Taskmaster, brings his distinctive brand of self-deprecating humor and commanding stage presence to this highly anticipated tour. The English comedian is renowned for his towering 6'8" frame and ability to blend observational comedy with deeply personal storytelling drawn from his eccentric Welsh heritage and unconventional life journey.
Davies' career spans over two decades, from his early breakthrough as the infamously psychotic Mr. Gilbert in the beloved comedy series The Inbetweeners to his current success fronting Never Mind the Buzzcocks and BBC One's The Cleaner. His Full Fat Legend tour promises the same sharp wit and theatrical delivery that has earned him multiple award nominations, including BAFTA recognition for his comedy performance. Utilita Arena Newcastle, located in the heart of Newcastle Upon Tyne, stands as one of the region's premier entertainment venues, providing an ideal setting for Davies' energetic and engaging live performances.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Edinburgh
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Edinburgh From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Rock in Edinburgh. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Edinburgh Activities