The Big Story

If you're interested in the history of the Abbey, and the lives of the people who used to live here, you'll love our impressive interactive exhibition, The Big Story. With state-of-the-art touch screens, models and displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Big Story brings Hexham Abbey's 1,300 year history alive, for adults and children alike.

Children can have a go at dressing up as one of Hexham’s Augustinian Canons, building their own Gothic arch, or finding out what it took to be able to join Wilfrid’s monks in the scriptorium. What did the naughty choir boys post through the floorboards? And what was the smelliest job in the world?

For adults, fascinating information panels and videos examine the work of the stonemasons who built and decorated the Abbey. And a touch screen display enables you to follow the development of the Abbey and the monastic buildings from their beginnings to the present day.

Finally, take a moment to enjoy our detailed coin-operated scale model of the Abbey, where you can switch on the lights and listen to the bells ringing!

Entry to The Big Story is free of charge.

Opening times:

Monday - Saturday: 10am - 4pm

Sundays: 11am - 3pm

The Big Story