This early C19 row of buildings flanks Hall Orchard, one of the ancient approaches into the centre of Hexham. Although an interesting enough building from the outside, its real secret lies beneath – the stone exterior hiding an unusual subterranean history recently unearthed by Artist owner Ben Haslam.
Twelve feet below the current ground surface lies the probable original ground level where a Medieval Brewery once operated. Originally a low long narrow ‘Burgage” building – probably with a heather-thatched or slated roof – its walls were adapted as brewing techniques developed.
The stone vaulted ceiling is estimated to date from the C17, enclosing a malt kiln and malting floor. The ventilated vault allowed brewing operations to be carried on throughout the year as temperature and germination could be controlled with some accuracy – previous primitive systems allowed only 6 months of production during the cooler months. The sophisticated and beautifully constructed stone vault suggests a well-funded commercial enterprise. Holes to the front of the building, visible from Hall Orchard below the shop windows, were initially thought to be coal chutes but are now believed to be ventilation holes, four in total.
To the rear of the vault, are larger arched access indicate what was once level access to the vault later tunnelled and stepped upward towards the Old Gaol yard perhaps where the Kiln was sited , all these features are now banked over and the Malt Kiln sadly Lost.
It is thought that the building became increasingly subterranean as ground levels rose to accommodate drains and sewers that were laid parallel to the building in the 1800s.
Artist Ben Haslam is the current owner and has restored the cellars with great care and attention. The beautiful stone construction, has been cleaned and restored all by hand using local craftsmen.
an Early photograph The Hallgate Building taken circa 1930 when tradings as Thomas Miller Wine and Beer Merchants
