Hexham Old Gaol, completed in January 1332, stands as the oldest purpose-built prison in England. Commissioned by William Melton, the Archbishop of York, this three-storey stone building has witnessed nearly seven centuries of Northumberland's turbulent history.
A Medieval Innovation in Justice
The gaol was constructed to hold prisoners from Hexhamshire and, from the 16th century, from the English Middle March, all awaiting trial at the nearby Moot Hall. Its design represented a significant development in medieval penal architecture. Built in rubble masonry in the Medieval style, the rectangular structure features heavily corbelled eaves and originally had a doorway positioned to the left on the ground floor. This was later replaced by a bi-partite mullioned window with a new arched central doorway. The upper floors initially had limited fenestration, with lancet windows and bi-partite mullioned windows added in subsequent centuries.
The principal rooms comprised two vaulted cells in the basement, where prisoners were confined, whilst the upper floors served prison administrative functions. This separation of accommodation from administration was innovative for its time.
The Hexham Riot of 1761
The gaol played a central role in one of Hexham's darkest episodes. In 1761, a crowd gathered in the Market Place to protest changes in militia service criteria. When troops opened fire upon the protesters, approximately 45 people were killed. In the aftermath, many of those involved in the disturbance were incarcerated within the Old Gaol's walls. This event, known as the Hexham Riot, remains a significant moment in the town's social history.
From Prison to Museum
The building ceased operations as a prison in 1820 when remaining prisoners were transferred to Morpeth Gaol. Its subsequent history reflects the changing needs of the community. It served briefly as a bank and solicitor's office before housing the 2nd Northumberland Rifle Volunteers from 1860 to 1891. During the Second World War, the structure functioned as a fire lookout tower.
In 1980, the building reopened as a museum, preserving its Grade I listed status and offering visitors insight into its layered history. The museum's collections span archaeology, archives, costume and textiles, law and order, music, photography, social history, weapons, and war. Of particular note are the 15th and 16th-century arms and armour on display. The Border Library within the museum holds the Butler Collection, comprising books, recordings, and music relating to Border culture.
Visiting Information
Hexham Old Gaol operates as a museum, though visitors should verify current opening hours and admission details before travelling. The building's location in the centre of Hexham makes it accessible to those exploring the town's rich historical heritage.