December in Hexham brings a great atmosphere. The Sele Park and Beaumont Street twinkle with festive lights, independent shops showcase their seasonal offerings and the town prepares for its much loved Christmas Market. Whether you’re visiting for the day, staying overnight, or meeting friends and family, Hexham is full of things to see, do and enjoy as the year draws to a close.
The Christmas Market is a well supported event in the town, drawing both locals and visitors from across the region. Stalls fill the streets in and around the Abbey and Market Place showcasing small makers, food producers and artisan gifts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an annual tradition while soaking up the festive atmosphere on one of Hexham’s busiest days of the year.
This year, the market takes place on Saturday 13th December, starting at 9.30am, with more than 130 stalls, including the ever-popular Farmers’ Market. The combination of craft, produce and entertainment makes it easy to spend several hours wandering the town centre.
Whilst the market is a huge attraction, Hexham is becoming renowned for its independent shops. From long-established bookshops and boutique clothing stores to artisan jewellers, toy shops, and specialty food retailers, there’s a wide variety to explore. Many of these shops are run by local owners who take real pride in their products and the customer experience.
During December, their festive displays and gift ideas bring an extra sparkle to the town, and this year they’ve collaborated on a short video showcasing the best of what’s on offer (we’ve included a link to the video below). Whether you’re hunting for a thoughtful gift, discovering one-off treasures, or simply enjoying a leisurely browse, Hexham’s independents make for a delightful and authentic shopping experience. It’s a reminder that Hexham’s shops are a year-round strength of the town, and December simply shows them at their best.
“Hexham’s independent shops are at the heart of the town all year round and this festive video beautifully captures the variety and character they bring. It’s a great way to celebrate the creativity, quality and community spirit of local businesses this Christmas.”
Just down the road from our Hotel is Hexham’s Queen’s Hall Arts Centre and the independent Forum Cinema, which add even more to the December calendar. Between them, the venues offer a mix of festive performances, live music, creative workshops, live-streamed theatre, and seasonal films, giving visitors plenty of options to enjoy this festive season.
This December’s highlights at the Queens Hall include:
Meanwhile, the Forum Cinema provides a lovely setting for festive films, live-streamed theatre, and special screenings, ideal for families, couples, or friends looking for a relaxed winter outing. Both venues are integral to Hexham’s cultural life, and December’s varied programme ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight.
For those planning a day out or a short stay, the Beaumont Hotel is ideally located. Situated in the centre of Hexham, it puts the market, independent shops and park just a few steps away. Winter gives the Hotel a distinct character; the twinkling lights in the park and views towards the Abbey create a calm backdrop for a relaxed lunch, a break from shopping or a pre- or post-theatre drink.
The open kitchen and seasonal menu provide something a little different from a typical pre-theatre meal, while the bar offers a welcoming spot for a quiet drink. The festive set menu, available as two or three courses, features seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, reflecting both the region and the season. Here, the focus remains consistent throughout December: good food, an easy-going atmosphere, and time to enjoy the day at your own pace.
Whether you’re visiting the Christmas Market, exploring independent shops, attending a show, or simply wandering through the park under twinkling lights, Hexham has something to offer every visitor. The Beaumont Hotel, with its central location, seasonal menu, and welcoming bar and lounge, provides a convenient and relaxed base to enjoy it all. But above all, it’s the town itself — its community, character, and local businesses — that makes December in Hexham so memorable.
Our highlights for visitors wanting to make the most of a day or short stay, include:
From markets to makers, theatre to twinkling streets, Hexham offers a distinctive combination of quality, warmth, and straightforward enjoyment throughout December. It’s a town where visitors and locals alike can take time to explore, discover, and create festive memories.
If you’d like to enjoy a meal, drinks, or a stay during your visit to Hexham this December, the Beaumont Hotel would be delighted to welcome you.
You can book a table, reserve a room, or find out more via:
Tel: 01434 602331
E-mail us: reservations@thebeaumonthexham.co.uk
Hexham Book Festival returns for the 20th year! An being right next door, we were at the centre of it all. From pre-talk coffee to post show dinner, we were there for it all and loved the buzz around Hexham as spring reared its head once again.
