Last Updated on 11 November 2025 by Vanessa
If you’re planning a holiday in Northumberland, England, you may want to stay in Thornley House B&B near the historic market town of Hexham, particularly if you adore cats.
Want to know why? Then read on.
Thornley House in Hexham: a B&B for lovers of fine cats and fine gardens
The owners of Thornley House describe their retreat as a “B&B for lovers of fine cats and fine gardens.”
From the moment you arrive, the gardens and open fields set a peaceful, welcoming tone.
Well-tended flowerbeds, herb patches, and tree-lined paths show the care put into maintaining the grounds.
It’s one of the top hotels in the UK with resident cats and an inviting setting if you appreciate peaceful countryside surroundings and some feline company.
The rooms
Thornley House currently only has a twin-bedded room with WiFi, FreeView TV, and tea and coffee making facilities.
You can check out prices and make a reservation here.
All rates include breakfast.
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Cats as roommates at Thornley House B&B
One of the best things about Thornley House is its family of cats.
You’ll meet two huge, gentle Maine Coons, a playful red Burmese, and a few friendly alley cats who wander in and out as they please.
They roam the premises freely and bring a homely warmth to every corner.
But the absolute best part?
You are allowed to keep the feline residents in your room at night so they can sleep on your bed. 😻
There’s nothing quite like falling asleep with a purring ball of fluff by your side or waking up to the gentle touch of a whisker on your cheek.
Update: The cat family has changed a little over the years. Now there are three Maine Coons, a red Burmese, and a friendly stray named Alexei. Their presence remains the heart of Thornley House B&B.
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Welcoming all pets at Thornley House
Cats may rule the roost at Thornley House, but the B&B also welcomes guests who travel with their own cats and dogs.
With a little notice, you can even bring along your dog, bird, or even a guinea pig — because here, pets are treated like part of the family.
Dogs just need to stay on a lead, out of respect for the resident cats, who enjoy their own space and don’t take kindly to surprise encounters.
Beyond that, the wide gardens and open fields make the perfect playground for pets and their people to stretch their legs, explore, and enjoy some fresh Northumberland air together.
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How to get to Thornley House?
Address: Thornley House B&B, Thornley Gate, Hexham NE47 9NH, United Kingdom.
Thornley House sits just outside Hexham, a historic market town in Northumberland — about 25 miles west of Newcastle and 31 miles east of Carlisle.
Here’s how to get there:
By car
- From Hexham town centre, drive south on the A6079 toward the River Tyne.
- After about 2 miles, take the second exit at the roundabout onto the A69 toward Carlisle.
- Stay on the A69 for 3 miles, then follow signs for A686 (Alston/Haydon Bridge).
- Take the second exit at the roundabout onto the A686 and continue for about 6 miles to Thornley Gate.
- You’ll find Thornley House B&B on the right.
By train
Hexham has its own train station, which is well-connected to major cities in the UK.
From Hexham Train Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Thornley House B&B, which is 9 miles (approximately 14 km) south of Hexham.
Taxis are usually available outside the station, or you can pre-book one in advance.
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Things to do in Hexham
Hexham sits by the River Tyne and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and the North Pennines. Highlights include:
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Hexham Abbey: A medieval church with stunning architecture and an interactive visitor center.
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Old Gaol: England’s oldest purpose-built prison with original cells and crime history exhibits.
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Hexham Market: A local market open Tue, Fri & Sat.
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Tyne Green Country Park: A riverside park with walking paths, picnic areas, cycling, and events.
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Corbridge Roman Town: Roman ruins with streets, buildings, and reconstructed gardens.
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Hadrian’s Wall: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic fortifications and scenic views.
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Allen Banks & Staward Gorge: National Trust woodlands with riverside trails and waterfalls.
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Thinking of staying at Thornley House B&B near Hexham and spending the night with their cats?
If so, share this post with your friends and on social media, and invite them to join you. Together, you can enjoy unforgettable moments and make lasting memories with these adorable feline companions.
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