Attractions and places to see around Whittington offer a rich blend of historical sites, natural features, and scenic routes in the Northumberland region. This area is characterized by its proximity to Hadrian's Wall and the River Tyne, providing a landscape steeped in Roman and early Christian history. Visitors can explore ancient structures, picturesque river crossings, and tranquil village settings. The terrain around Whittington features varied landscapes suitable for walking and cycling, with many landmarks offering historical insights and scenic viewpoints.
…Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Located close to Hadrian's Wall, the lovely village of Matfen is well worth spending some time in. This eighteenth-century planned estate village was originally established by the Blackett family. With a gently flowing stream, village green and attractive stone dwellings, Matfen is as unspoilt as it has ever been. Built some 200 years ago, the attractive, creeper-covered Black Bull Inn fronts the village green and has low beams and open fires.
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The stone cross is a war memorial and an impressive monument in the form of a Celtic cross, erected in memory of local soldiers who died in the First (22) and Second World Wars (3). The 4.8-meter sandstone cross is richly decorated with symbolic patterns and inscriptions that convey deep respect and historical significance. It is a peaceful, reflective spot in the heart of the village, near Holy Trinity Church.
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The Hagg Bank Bridge, also known as the Points Bridge or Half-Moon Bridge, is a Grade II* listed pedestrian bridge spanning the River Tyne at Wylam. It was originally built in 1876 as a railway bridge for the Scotswood, Newburn & Wylam Railway. W.G. Laws's design incorporated a 73-metre single rib arch with no piers in the river, an innovation at the time and likely inspiration for later bridges such as the Tyne Bridge and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Following the closure of the railway line in 1968, the bridge was reopened in 1975 as a walkway and cycle path linking Wylam with the Tyne Riverside Country Park.
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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.
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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.
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Beautiful village and lovely cafe except they would not allow me ot charge my electric bike battery and it is a long way to Bellingham. There is no cafe in the town before Matfen too (Stamfordham) but there is a pub that might be cooperative.
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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.
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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.
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The area around Whittington, Northumberland, is rich in history. You can visit St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield, a significant site in early northern Christianity where King Oswald raised a cross before a decisive battle. Another impressive historical and religious landmark is Hexham Abbey, one of England's oldest churches, with parts dating back to 674 AD and featuring a rare Saxon crypt. Additionally, the Stone Cross and Church in Matfen offers a peaceful, reflective spot with a Celtic cross war memorial.
Yes, Whittington is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, especially along the River Tyne. Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne provides a beautiful viewpoint in the scenic village of Chollerford, offering lovely views of the river. The historic Hagg Bank Bridge, now a pedestrian and cycle path, also offers excellent views of the River Tyne and the surrounding countryside.
The Whittington area is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and even gravel biking. For easy hikes, consider trails like the Corbridge Bridge – Hugh Percy Fountain loop or the Old Carelgate Cart Track – Corbridge Bridge loop. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes such as the Stamfordham Village Green – Matfen Village Store and Café loop. For more challenging adventures, gravel biking routes like the Wylam Bridge – Derwent Walk loop are available. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes around Whittington guide, the cycling around Whittington guide, and the gravel biking around Whittington guide.
Many attractions around Whittington are suitable for families. The Hagg Bank Bridge and Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne are great for leisurely walks and enjoying river views. St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield, offers an interesting historical stop in a peaceful field setting. The village of Matfen, with its Stone Cross and Church, is also a pleasant place for a family stroll. These spots often combine historical interest with accessible outdoor spaces.
Visitors frequently praise the historical significance and scenic beauty of the area. The Hagg Bank Bridge is loved for its stunning views of the River Tyne and its conversion into a popular cycleway/footpath. The peaceful and historically rich atmosphere of St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield, is also highly appreciated, especially by those completing St Oswald's Way. The charm of villages like Matfen and the impressive architecture of Hexham Abbey also receive high acclaim from the komoot community.
Whittington is known for its historical bridges. The Hagg Bank Bridge, originally a railway bridge from 1876, is now a Grade II* listed pedestrian and cycle path offering great river views. Another significant structure is the Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne, a stone-arched bridge that serves as a main landmark in the village of Chollerford.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails around Whittington, perfect for a relaxed outing. Examples include the Corbridge Bridge – Hugh Percy Fountain loop and the Old Carelgate Cart Track – Corbridge Bridge loop, both offering pleasant distances of around 5-6 km. These trails provide a great way to experience the local scenery without strenuous effort. For more options, refer to the easy hikes around Whittington guide.
The area offers diverse cycling opportunities, from leisurely rides to more challenging gravel biking. You can find easy to moderate cycling routes like the Stamfordham Village Green – Matfen Village Store and Café loop. For those interested in gravel biking, there are more difficult routes such as the Wylam Bridge – Derwent Walk loop. Detailed routes and guides are available in the cycling around Whittington guide and the gravel biking around Whittington guide.
The attractions around Whittington, being largely historical sites and outdoor features, are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling, with lush landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a serene, quieter experience, though some paths might be muddy. Always check specific opening times for indoor attractions like Hexham Abbey, especially during off-peak seasons.
While the guide focuses on attractions directly around Whittington, the wider Northumberland region is famously home to Hadrian's Wall. The village of Chollerford, near the Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne, is superbly situated for exploring the countryside around Hadrian's Wall, with Chesters Roman Fort being a good place to start your exploration of Roman history in the area.
Yes, in addition to the impressive Hexham Abbey, you can visit St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield. This small chapel holds significant historical importance as the site where King Oswald raised a cross before a pivotal battle in AD 635. It's a peaceful and historically rich location.


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