Until about 1700 the Tyne Valley was a lawless and dangerous land, plagued by reiver gangs and bloody feuds. In 1602 Hexham was known as a place where “outrages were daily committed … and persons [were] carried away by violence and against their will.” In 1330 an imposing prison was built – the oldest purpose built prison in England – now known as the Old Gaol. But could this stronghold keep the reivers and criminals in check? Find out more about the objects, buildings and people who were part of this landscape below...