Hexham Canoe Club

The River Tyne runs right through Hexham, and if you fancy getting on the water rather than just walking alongside it, the canoe club is your answer. It's a proper working sports venue, not a tourist attraction with gift shop bells and whistles - locals come here to paddle, train, and muck about on the river. You can watch them launching kayaks and canoes from the bank, or if you're actually interested in paddling yourself, they run courses and can arrange equipment hire. The setting is lovely - trees line the water, and there's something quite meditative about watching paddlers move across the flow.

Kids who already know how to swim and fancy an adventure will get a kick out of watching the action, though very young ones might find standing around a bit dull. History buffs won't find much here beyond the river itself, but walkers absolutely should stop by if they're exploring Hexham town centre - it's a nice excuse to drop down to the waterside. Allow thirty minutes to an hour if you're just having a look, longer if you're doing a taster lesson.

If you're staying at Springhouse Boutique Holiday Park or East Farm Glamping nearby, the club makes an easy morning outing before exploring Hexham's abbey and market square. The town itself sits on the Pennine Way, so it's a natural break point if you're hiking. Worth a detour if you're already in the area, though don't go out of your way purely for this.