Plans to conserve historic site move forward with major lottery funding boost

Hexham Abbey has received £138,088 in development funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for its Old Treasures in a New Light project, which aims to conserve and display its collection of medieval panel paintings and grave covers.

The Reverend Canon David Glover from Hexham Abbey said: “We are thrilled to have received this initial support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, we can now develop our plans for vital conservation work, community outreach and sharing the Abbey’s unique and amazing treasures with new audiences of all ages and backgrounds.”

Hexham Abbey secures £138,000 lottery funding to preserve medieval treasures (Image: Supplied)

The abbey, a Grade I listed building founded in 674, houses the UK’s largest collection of medieval panel paintings, and welcomes around 100,000 visitors each year.

The conservation project aims to safeguard these artworks and improve how visitors experience the site through interactive displays and improved accessibility.

Other elements of the project include upgrading lighting to protect the fragile panels, digital interpretation of the crypt, the panels and other treasures, refurbishment of the Slype to create a warmer welcome for visitors, and improved digital signage.

An activity programme will help create a more inclusive visitor experience.

Hexham Abbey secures £138,000 lottery funding to preserve medieval treasures (Image: Supplied)

Helen Featherstone, director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re delighted to support Hexham Abbey with this initial grant to work towards undertaking urgent conservation of the Abbey’s significant collection of medieval panel paintings, while also transforming the visitor experience at the wonderful Grade I listed building.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, this development phase will help progress plans to safeguard the Abbey’s important heritage for future generations.”

Grant applications over £250,000 are assessed in two rounds.

Hexham Abbey will use the development funding to complete detailed plans before applying for a second-round grant of £994,022.

If successful, the project will move from planning into full delivery, including conservation and community engagement.

Throughout the project, Hexham Abbey will also run events to involve the public in the project.