Two popular Hexham businesses have been sold.

The Heart of Northumberland pub and The Small World Café were both sold by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.

The café was a family-run business, known for its fresh, homemade, and locally sourced menu.

The previous owner, Angela Wilson, sold the café due to her retirement.

Ms Wilson said: "We selected Christie & Co to support the sale of our café due to their wide network and knowledge in the hospitality sector.

"They have been professional throughout the sale, assisting promptly where and when required.

"I would certainly recommend Christie & Co to anyone selling a hospitality business in the North East."

The Heart of Northumberland is a Grade II listed pub, popular among both residents and tourists.

It is situated just off the Market Place in Hexham and was recently voted the eighth cosiest pub in the UK.

The Small World Café (Image: Supplied) David Cash, regional director for pubs and restaurants at Christie & Co, and business agent Marslie McGregor brokered the sale of the pub.

Mr Cash said: "The sale of this well-invested, busy pub further reinforces the demand for assets in strong trading locations.

"The market town setting and the pub’s popularity with tourists while being underpinned by a very strong local trade were key drivers for the buyers, an incredibly acquisitive, national pub company with a healthy appetite for further expansion."

The Small World Café was also a sought-after business.

Ms McGregor, business agent for pubs and restaurants at Christie & Co, said: "Small World Café presented an excellent opportunity for an owner-operator to take over a long-established business in the heart of Hexham.

"With an excellent reputation and enviable location, we had a high level of interest in this site, demonstrating the demand we are experiencing for leasehold hospitality businesses, particularly in desirable locations."