Established in 2004, The Hearth is an arts charity situated within a restored Grade II listed 17th-century manse. In 1879, the Victorians established a schoolroom, now the Hearth Hall, which was restored in 2003. During the restoration, a false ceiling was removed, revealing a beautiful wooden structure.
The Hearth champions high‑quality cultural experiences in a rural setting, supports creative practitioners, and provides a welcoming space where people can connect, create, and thrive. The centre is home to eight artists’ studios, a popular café, and two affordable spaces available for hire. Creative workshops, activities, and events are initiated and led by a vibrant mix of professional artists, cultural practitioners, wellbeing and education professionals, and organisations from across the North East of England. We support programme delivery by providing marketing assistance and maintaining welcoming, well-equipped spaces.
As a local promoter for the Highlights Rural Touring Scheme, we work in partnership to bring concerts by local, national, and international musicians to our community, alongside affordable performances filled with drama, music, and laughter. Through Film at the Hearth, delivered in partnership with Forum Cinema Hexham, we are also proud to serve as a venue for the Tyne Valley Film Festival, harnessing the power of film to connect people, spark conversation, and create lasting memories.
Recent initiatives include the introduction of co-working spaces and monthly live music sessions featuring local artists. Organisations and individuals who support families offer a range of inclusive programmes, including music sessions for children aged 4 to 11, singing groups for women of all ages and stages of life, and specialist support for autistic children and young people, as well as learners with complex needs.
