One of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks is the magnificent Alnwick Castle. It’s grand, it’s full of history and it’s just a lovely day out. Whether you’re a lover of historic buildings, a Harry Potter fan, or you simply enjoy exploring somewhere beautiful, Alnwick Castle really does have something for everyone.
From St Oswald’s Farm, it’s around an hours drive, and if you opt to take the scenic route via Kirkharle and Rothbury you will find yourself winding through open countryside and picture-perfect Northumberland villages. It’s an easy and enjoyable route, and before you know it, the sight of the castle’s towers will be rising above the town ahead of you.
Step into history at Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is often described as one of the finest castles in England, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. It’s still home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, and there’s something rather special about walking through a place that’s not only steeped in history, but also very much alive and lived in.
Alnwick Castle dates back to the 11th century, when it was first built by Yves de Vescy, Baron of Alnwick, to defend England’s northern border. Over the centuries, it’s witnessed battles, sieges and royal visits, and today it stands as one of the largest inhabited castles in the country.
In 1309, it became home to the Percy family, one of the most powerful noble families in English history, and as it still remains their residence today, it one of the few castles of this size still lived in by its original lineage. The Percys played major roles in English history – from the medieval wars with Scotland to the Wars of the Roses and beyond.
Alnwick Castle – From fortress to film star
While its medieval walls tell tales of knights and nobles, Alnwick Castle has a lighter side too. In more recent years, it’s become something of a film and TV star – appearing as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey and many more film and TV appearances including Transformers and Dungeons & Dragons! The castle embraces this fame beautifully, offering broomstick training sessions in the very courtyard where Harry and his friends first learned to fly! It’s a wonderful mix of fun and nostalgia, and a must-see for Potter fans of any age.
Beyond the magic, there’s plenty more to enjoy, try your hand at archery, meet costumed guides who bring the castle’s past vividly to life, or simply wander through the grounds and soak up the views. Within the castle’s keep, you’ll find beautifully decorated State Rooms which include the Upper and Lower Guard Chambers, the Library, the Drawing Room, the Saloon, the Dining Room, and the China Gallery all of which are stunning, packed full of fine art, antique furniture and centuries of history. Your day ticket includes entrance to all the museums and collections within the castle and to the grounds which include highlights such as the Lion Arch and a replica Napoleonic cannon that sits proudly on the Gun Terrace.
When it’s time for lunch, there’s the Courtyard Café inside the castle grounds that not only offers a warm Northumbrian welcome but a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, soups and savoury bites, or you can wander into the town itself, where you’ll find plenty of independent cafés and little shops to explore. For more information on visiting Alnwick Castle please head to their website.
Don’t miss The Alnwick Garden
Right next door is The Alnwick Garden, and it’s absolutely worth a visit while you’re there. The Grand Cascade is breathtaking, the Poison Garden is fascinating (and perhaps a little bit eerie!) in fact all of the gardens within the complex are simply beautiful and with interest throughout the year.
Extend the day and visit the coast
If you’ve still got some exploring left in you, the coast is only a short drive away. Craster is a lovely little fishing village known for its kippers, its harbour views and its walk along the coastal path to Dunstanburgh Castle. On a sunny day, it’s hard to beat the combination of sea air, castle ruins, wide open skies and the opportunity to enjoy a drink and a crab sandwich at The Jolly Fisherman.
Alnwick Castle really does capture so much of what makes Northumberland so very special, its deep history, its beauty, its creativity and that little bit of magic that stays with you long after you’ve left.
