Bob Mortimer's Rock
Sightseeing attraction | Hexham | England | United Kingdom
"Bob Mortimer's Rock" in Hexham, England, is a rather unusual and less known attraction, associated with the British comedian and TV presenter Bob Mortimer. It is not an official tourist attraction in the traditional sense, but rather a large rock in the vicinity of Hexham, a historic market town in Northumberland. The "Rock" gained fame through an anecdote that Bob Mortimer has shared in various interviews and appearances, particularly in relation to his popular BBC series "Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing", which he co-hosts with Paul Whitehouse. The story of this rock is a typical example of Mortimer's quirky humor and his ability to create entertaining narratives from everyday events.
Born in 1959 in Middlesbrough, Bob Mortimer is a well-known comedian who became famous through his collaboration with Vic Reeves and his numerous TV appearances, such as in "Would I Lie to You?" or "Taskmaster". His connection to "Bob Mortimer's Rock" stems from a personal story that he often tells with a twinkle in his eye. The rock is said to have played a role during Mortimer's youth in the 1970s, when as a teenager he explored the North English landscape with friends. In one of his stories, he describes how he and his mates used this distinctive rock as a meeting point or point of reference while cycling around the area or simply enjoying the freedom of nature. Mortimer humorously later declared the rock to be "his" rock, earning it the unofficial name "Bob Mortimer's Rock".
Hexham itself is a picturesque town on the River Tyne, known for its medieval abbey, charming market square, and its proximity to Hadrian's Wall. The area is characterized by gentle hills, green valleys, and a wild, untouched landscape typical of Northumberland. "Bob Mortimer's Rock" fits into this setting, even though it does not have official historical or geological significance. It is a large, freestanding rock that rests amidst this natural landscape - an unassuming yet distinctive feature that has acquired a special identity through Mortimer's stories. For fans of the comedian, the rock is a place that reflects his unconventional personality and his love for the North English homeland.
The exact location of the rock is not publicly documented, adding to the charm of the attraction - it is more of a myth than a clearly defined point on the map. Mortimer himself has never described in detail where exactly the rock is located, but embellished the story with vague yet vivid details, such as that it is "somewhere near Hexham" and "big enough to sit on and eat a sandwich". This ambiguity suits his humor, which often relies on absurdities and exaggerations. Some fans speculate that the rock can be found in one of the many hiking areas around Hexham, perhaps along the Tyne Valley or near the Roman sites, but it remains a mystery that stimulates the imagination.
What makes "Bob Mortimer's Rock" special is less its physical presence and more the cultural significance it has gained through Mortimer's fame. In "Gone Fishing", he often tells nostalgic stories from his youth, showing his connection to nature and the Northeast of England. The rock is a symbol of that time, when Mortimer roamed the area as a punk teenager with his band "Dog Dirt" or later worked as a garbage collector in Middlesbrough before moving to London and starting his comedy career. For visitors exploring the region, the rock becomes a kind of pilgrimage site - not because of its size or beauty, but because of the connection to a man who has shaped the British comedy scene.
The surroundings of Hexham provide a perfect backdrop for such an attraction. The town is surrounded by a rugged yet beautiful landscape that attracts hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Although "Bob Mortimer's Rock" does not have signs or markings, adventurous visitors could wander through the hills in search of it and enjoy the atmosphere that Mortimer so often describes: a mix of freedom, simplicity, and a touch of madness. The rock itself is probably just one of many in the region, but its association with Mortimer sets it apart from the rest.
Therefore, "Bob Mortimer's Rock" is less a traditional landmark and more a piece of vibrant pop culture. It embodies Mortimer's humor and his ability to make everyday things unforgettable. For fans, it is a reason to visit Hexham and embark on a quest for a piece of nature that may not be so easy to find - a fitting adventure for a man who once set fire to his parents' house with fireworks and later brought surreal nonsense to the screens with Vic Reeves. In a region full of Roman ruins and medieval history, this rock adds a modern, quirky touch that complements the versatility of Northumberland perfectly.
