Hexham Abbey has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £138,088 to support the conservation of its internationally significant medieval panel paintings. The Grade I-listed church in Northumberland houses the United Kingdom’s largest collection of medieval panels, including depictions of Northumbrian saints, bishops, and biblical figures.

The paintings include notable works such as those on a choir screen portraying St Oswald, St Etheldreda, and St Andrew, as well as a series within a passageway linking the choir to the nave. This passage features 16 canopied niches with images of the bishops of Hexham and Lindisfarne. Additional panels illustrate the Dance of Death and several series depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the Twelve Apostles.

These artworks are recognized as rare survivors of the widespread destruction of church imagery that occurred during England’s Commonwealth period in the 17th century. However, conservation specialists have expressed concern that without immediate intervention, these panels could be irreparably damaged.

The initial grant is intended to enable the abbey to apply for a larger funding package approaching £1 million, which would facilitate extensive conservation efforts. The proposed project aims not only to preserve the paintings and an associated collection of medieval grave covers but also to enhance visitor engagement through digital interpretation and improved accessibility.

Plans include introducing sensitive new lighting designed to protect the panels from further deterioration and the effects of climate change, alongside upgraded digital signage and new activity programs. These initiatives are intended to broaden the reach of the abbey’s heritage, attract more diverse audiences, and improve the site’s long-term sustainability.

Revd Canon David Glover of Hexham Abbey emphasized the importance of the grant, noting that support from National Lottery players is crucial for developing conservation plans and community outreach. He expressed optimism that the project would enable the abbey to share its historic treasures with visitors of all ages and backgrounds.