The best road cycling routes around Allendale

Hexham Abbey is one of England's oldest and most impressive churches. The abbey was originally founded in 674 AD by St. Wilfrid, using stones from nearby Roman ruins. The oldest part—the Saxon crypt—is still intact and represents a rare remnant of early Christian architecture. Inside, you'll find stained glass, the Roman tombstone of Flavinus, a 1st-century standard-bearer, an impressive Phelps organ from 1974, and a frith stool (Saxon bishop's chair). Admission to the abbey is free, with a small charge for the crypt.

Hexham Abbey is one of England's oldest and most impressive churches. The abbey was originally founded in 674 AD by St. Wilfrid, using stones from nearby Roman ruins. The oldest part—the Saxon crypt—is still intact and represents a rare remnant of early Christian architecture. Inside, you'll find stained glass, the Roman tombstone of Flavinus, a 1st-century standard-bearer, an impressive Phelps organ from 1974, and a frith stool (Saxon bishop's chair). Admission to the abbey is free, with a small charge for the crypt.

Newbrough Town Hall is a distinctive community building in the village of Newbrough, Northumberland, situated on the historic Stanegate Roman Road. Built in 1878 in the Italianate style and donated by Jane Todd as a gift to the village community, it is now a Grade II listed building and a vibrant hub for local events, concerts, and gatherings. With its elegant façade, clock tower, and spacious function rooms, it hosts everything from badminton to weddings – a vibrant heart of the village, rooted in history. Newbrough itself promotes itself as the gateway to the Northumberland National Park.

Grindon Lough is a small, shallow natural lake near Hadrian's Wall and the Stanegate Roman Road. Nestled among limestone ridges, it's a birdwatching hotspot, especially in autumn and winter. Species like greylag goose, wigeon, teal, curlew, and even rarer species like the American wigeon or red-necked phalarope can be spotted here. There's no direct access to the lake, but it's easily viewed from the Stanegate Road near Newbrough—but be sure to bring warm clothing, as it's often windy and exposed.

Stunning views at the top on the Northumberland border

About the patron saint of this church: Saint Andrew is one of the twelve apostles whom Jesus Christ called to follow him. However, in the biblical accounts, he is often somewhat overshadowed by his far more famous brother, Saint Peter. In the Gospels, we find the calling of the two siblings portrayed in different ways. According to the Gospel of John (John 1:40-42), Andrew is called first (together with another unnamed disciple). Later, he tells his brother that he has found the Messiah. The feast of Saint Andrew in the calendar of saints is November 30th in all major Christian denominations. The X-shaped white "St. Andrew's Cross," on which he was executed, forms the national flag of Scotland against a blue background and has also found its way onto the national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

Hexham is a historic market town known for Hexham Abbey, its medieval architecture, historic buildings and scenic cobbled streets. It's a gateway to the North Pennines and Hadrian’s Wall, making a great starting points for hikes.

To cross the River Allen at this point, you will pass over this three-arch bridge, which is listed as Grade 2. Its origin dates back to the late 18th century. There are a few parking spaces on one side of the bridge.