Families in Hexham have several activities and creative opportunities to put in their diaries this autumn, including a children’s writing workshop at Queen’s Hall, a free community lantern parade and holiday sessions for younger children.
Writing workshop at Queen’s Hall
Building Worlds, Telling Stories will take place at Queen’s Hall, Hexham, from 1.30pm to 3pm on Tuesday 27 October 2026. The 90-minute session is for children aged eight to 14 and will be led by writer and creative writing tutor Dr Louise Logan-Smith.
Young writers will be able to create imaginary worlds, invent characters and start their own story. No previous experience is needed. It is a drop-off session, meaning parents and carers do not need to remain. Tickets cost £6 and can be booked through the Queen’s Hall website or by calling the box office on 01434 652477.
Writing competition open to Years 4–9
Children in Years 4 to 9 who live in, or attend school in, Northumberland can enter the free A Christmas Future writing competition. Entries must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 30 October 2026 and can be a story, diary entry or poem of up to 500 words.
Prizes include Queen’s Hall vouchers, book tokens and a family ticket. Entries can be emailed to [email protected] with the subject “A Christmas Future”, or handed in at the Queen’s Hall Box Office.
Lantern parade and holiday activities
Queen’s Hall’s community Lantern Parade returns on Friday 13 November 2026. Families should meet at Hexham Bandstand at 6pm for the free event, which will feature live music from Northern Monkey Brass Band. No booking is required. The parade is supported by EGGER, with further information available from Queen’s Hall.
Other notices include a Places Leisure children’s activity camp at Wentworth Leisure Centre during the 2026 October half-term holidays for boys and girls aged five to 12. Hexham Tennis Club is also offering padel-court sessions for children aged nine to 13 with parents. Booking is available by calling 07515 528886, 07450 599518 or 07967 156233.