Noyon is in north east France, in the Picardy region.  It lies between Amiens and Reims and is about 100km north of Paris.  Noyon has a population of about 18,000.

Noyon boasts a spectacular cathedral of Notre-Dame.  Charlemagne was crowned King of Neustria at Noyon in 768 and Hugues Capet the first Capetian King of France in 987.  Jean Calvin was born in Noyon in 1509, and his life is commemorated in a museum.  Noyon’s town hall is one of the oldest in France, with a very attractive Renaissance façade.  

As well as history, Noyon offers colourful markets and a fascinating choice of small shops and cafes.  In honour of the tenth anniversary of the twinning between Hexham and Noyon, one of Noyon’s roundabouts has been named ‘Le Rond-point d’Hexham’.

A fine concert hall is witness to the town’s commitment to music.  Local musical groups such as the ‘Harmonie’ orchestra often entertain us on twinning visits and have also participated in exchange visits to Hexham, along with other artists and craftspeople. 

Noyon is a good base for visiting other parts of north eastern France, such as the cities and great cathedrals of Amiens, Beauvais, Laon and Reims, as well as the First World War battlefields and cemeteries of the Somme and the Chemin des Dames.  The vineyards of Champagne are not far distant.