Discover Alnwick - An Incredible Destination in Northumberland
The medieval town of Alnwick is situated in the heart of Northumberland, surrounded by beautiful countryside and fascinating architecture. Alnwick is famous for its incredible Alwnick Castle, historic market square and scenic countryside location.
View of a street with old building in Alnwick Town Centre
Tourists from all over the world flock here to visit Alnwick Castle and experience the medieval charm of this small English town. Alnwick has something for everybody, and its surrounding sites offer so much to see and do. In this post, I will guide you on everything Alnwick, while recommending unique places to visit near Alnwick.
Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most iconic landmarks of Northumberland. Dating back to the late 11th century, this formidable castle was founded by Norman nobleman Yves de Vescy and later became the ancestral home of the Percy family.
The Percy family have held the title of Earls and Dukes of Northumberland for generations and were an essential piece of the history of Alnwick.
Visitors can explore various historical wonders inside the castle's grand stone walls. The lavish State Rooms of the castle are furnished with priceless furniture, art, and rare ornaments. In these historic luxury rooms, visitors can experience what it was like to live as an aristocrat in medieval Britain.
The castle also boasts a beautiful library and an extensive collection of artwork, including pieces by Canaletto and Van Dyck.
Alnwick Castle captures the essence of medieval Britain and the atmosphere of a fantasy fairytale movie, so much so that two Harry Potter movies were filmed here. The Philosopher's Stone and the Chamber of Secrets Harry Potter Movies were both filmed on the Alnwick Castle Grounds. This has made it one of the top visitor attractions in Alnwick and for Harry Potter fans visiting the UK.
Alnwick Castle embraces its film set days and offers visitors a chance to experience Broomstick training. This is a fun way for fans of the Harry Potter movies to experience Alnwick Castle. Even better, the Broomstick training comes free when you purchase the regular ticket to Alnwick Castle.
A film tour, historical grounds talk and Arms and Armour talk are also free as part of your entry ticket. Some of these tours may require you to book a time slot. To experience Alnwick Castle, check out their website for admission fees, opening times and guided tours.
Alnwick Garden
The Alnwick Garden is a truly unique attraction, and visiting the garden is one of the most fascinating things to do in Northumberland. This garden is unlike any other, as it exclusively houses a collection of some of the world's most poisonous plants. Behind a forbidding gate is a meticulously curated garden where you can observe deadly flora, belladonna and hemlock, mandrake and foxglove.
This dark side of Alnwick is known as the Alnwick Poison Garden and has become famous among tourists visiting the town. Although the garden is not just a vision of nature's darker side, it's also an educational experience that allows visitors to learn the historical uses of these toxic plants in medicine, witchcraft, and folklore.
The Alnwick Garden is also home to several more unique attractions, such as the Grand Cascade, a beautiful waterfall with lush greenery.
There is also a garden maze and an incredible treehouse restaurant. There is plenty to see in the Alnwick Garden so don't be worried if you're not interested in poisonous plants.
The Treehouse restaurant is a fantastic environment to eat in as the furniture is all carved out of wood. It is a real treehouse built amongst actual trees, so this isn't just a cool name but an authentic experience.
Alnwick Garden offers various events, such as Halloween, Christmas, and other special events. They also offer guided tours, which are great if you want to learn more about the plants and their background. Events and guided tour information are regularly updated on their website, where you can also find tickets and opening times.
Alnwick Town Centre
The historic market town has a quaint town centre completely unspoiled by modernity. Alnwick was previously a market town known for its dairy production and also served as a staging post between Edinburgh and London. A short walk through the town centre market square, and you can instantly feel the medieval atmosphere of Alnwick.
Alnwick town centre historic market square
The town centre of Alnwick is well preserved with no modern buildings, and the traditional medieval architecture is perfectly intact. Winding streets with historic buildings define the town centre, while the Alnwick Market Square adds to the unique character of Alnwick.
The Alnwick Market Square is a bustling hub of activity, particularly on market days, when it comes alive with stalls offering fresh local produce, crafts, and artisanal goods.
The historic market square in Alnwick
The town centre's quaint boutiques, traditional tearooms, and welcoming pubs all create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. I believe the Alnwick Town Centre is easily one of the best in Northumberland, and anyone visiting Alnwick should definitely spend some time there.
Places to stay in Alnwick
There are some great options for places to stay in Alnwick Northumberland. However, Alnwick is a small town, and the centre has few modern hotels. Two excellent options in the town centre are the White Swan Hotel and the Oaks Hotel.
If you are looking for something more rural and don't mind staying a bit further out, the Charlton Hall Estate is an excellent option.
There are plenty of other options, such as smaller and cheaper hotels around Alnwick and in the countryside. Wherever you choose to stay, I recommend booking in advance as small towns like Alnwick can get booked quickly.
St Michael's Church
This Grade I listed church is an architectural gem that dates back to the 14th century. Its detailed stained glass windows and intricate stonework make St. Michael's Church a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
The interior of St Michael's church is just as magnificent, whilst the church's location in the heart of Alnwick town centre further adds to its charm. The church is not a very popular tourist attraction, but it is undoubtedly worth a visit if you enjoy medieval architecture.
Barter Books Secondhand Bookstore
Barter Books is a secondhand bookstore located in the former Railway Station of Alnwick. Visiting a secondhand bookstore on your travels to Alnwick might not seem that exciting, but Barter Books is so much more than just a bookshop.
This is easily one of the best bookstores you will come across, with so many unique features, like traditional open-fire areas around the bookstore in the winter to keep you warm and cosy while browsing the store. There is also seating around the store to sit and enjoy a few chapters of the books you want to purchase.
Barter Books even has a buffet, ice cream parlour, and a railway model connecting the book columns. The interior is traditional, warm and cosy, reflecting the old railway station that was previously here. Barter Books is a must-visit for anyone looking to browse some literature and pick up some great books during their time in Alnwick.
Discover Roman History Along Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian's Wall is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient defensive fortification that was once marked the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain. Constructed during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the early 2nd century AD, this 73-mile-long wall spanned the width of England. Its primary purpose was to defend Roman Britannia against the hostile tribes of ancient Scotland.
Hadrian's Wall was built of stone and turf and fortified with a series of forts, milecastles, and turrets, creating a formidable barrier. Beyond its military function, Hadrian's Wall was crucial in controlling the movement of people, trade, and goods during Roman Britain.
Hadrian's Wall is easily accessible and can be seen in many areas of rural Northumberland, especially in the National Park. The wall is a fascinating architectural feature that speaks to the Roman History of Northumberland. If you are looking for unique things to do near Alnwick, then Hadrian's Wall is worth visiting.
Dunstanburgh Castle
Dunstanburgh Castle is a medieval fortress located along the scenic coast of Northumberland. The medieval coastal castle was built by Earl Thomas of Lancaster in the early 14th century.
It played a significant role in several historical conflicts, including the Wars of the Roses. Today, the castle ruins allow visitors to experience Northumberland's history through its sites, the great gatehouse, curtain walls, and the Lilburn Tower, perched on a rocky outcrop.
Dustanburgh Castle has become a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Castle is a short drive from Alnwick Town Centre, so it's the perfect place to visit if you're looking for an easy day trip from Alnwick.
The close proximity to Alnwick combined with breathtaking views, coastal walks, and a chance to spend time in a peaceful setting where great architecture, history, and nature coexist has made Dunstanburgh Castle a very popular place to visit.
Hulne Park
Hulne Park is a gigantic countryside park in Alnwick, home to a Priory, Brizlee Tower and Alnwick Abbey. This outdoor green space spans over 300 acres, which is a huge amount of land for a park. So, when visiting Hulne Park, it is essential to pick which area of the park you would like to see before visiting.
You might choose to visit the park's historic sites and landmarks or simply stroll its beautiful fields. Either way, Hulne Park is a great place to visit for some peace and quiet whilst taking in the nature and history of Alnwick.
Northumberland National Park
If you're looking for even more adventure and nature nearby, Northumberland National Park is the place to visit. Alnwick has a great location within a 30 minute drive of this beautiful National Park.
There are multiple walking routes in Northumberland National Park, where visitors can enjoy walks amongst the beautiful woodlands and experience the peaceful nature of the region. Harehsaw Linn is a tranquil waterfall which can be reached through a scenic nature walk crossing nine bridges.
The Sycamore Gap is home to the most famous sycamore tree in the United Kingdom. It is said that this Sycamore Tree is also the most photographed, which may be due to its unusual placement between two hilltops.
The most unique aspect of the Northumberland National Park is its Dark Skies. Multiple sites within the Northumberland National Park have now been designated as part of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. These are several locations where star gazers and astro photographers visit to enjoy the dark skies of Northumberland.
The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park locations can be found on their website. If you are interested in astronomy or astrophotography, this should definitely be on your list of things to see in Northumberland.
Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is one of the most iconic sites along the coast of Northumberland. The seaside fortress sits atop Bamburgh Beach and was one of Northumberland's key defensive castles throughout history.
If you have visited Alnwick and are seeking more medieval castles, I recommend visiting Bamburgh. Bamburgh Castle is larger and just as engaging as Alnwick Castle. It offers plenty of rooms to explore and a deep history tied to Northumberland.
Bamburgh Castle is massive, so keep that in mind when visiting, as you might need a whole day to visit this site. Overall, it is worth a trip if you enjoy historic castles. It is around 30 minutes drive from Alnwick or 1 hour by public transport.
Alnmouth Beach
This rustic sandy beach sits at the mouth of the River Aln and is just in front of the charming village of Alnmouth. Large, sandy and scenic, the beach is a great place to take a stroll and experience the coast of Northumberland.
Swimming at this beach is not recommended and is considered dangerous, particularly near the estuary whilst the tide is dropping. Being a dog-friendly beach, many visitors come to Alnmouth beach for nature walks with their dogs.
Alnmouth Beach is also a popular location for horse riding, and you may spot a few horseriders during your visit. Many travellers also flock here because of its close proximity to Alnwick, as it is only a short 14-minute drive from Alnwick to this beautiful beach.
Longhoughton Beach
Longhoughton Beach is the second closest beach to Alnwick Northumberland. It is another large sandy beach, but a little more remote than Alnmouth Beach. Longhoughton Beach is huge when the tide is out. However, when the tide is in, almost all the sand on the beach is covered, so it is essential to check the tides before visiting if you want the full beach experience.
Longhoughton Beach is quiet, scenic and has plenty of space. It is a place to escape the noise and urban environment of the UK cities. Remember that this is a secluded beach, though, and there are no tourist facilities at Longhoughton Beach. The nearest town, Boulmer, is around half a mile away, which does provide some amenities.
Visit the Holy Island
Visiting the Holy Island is one of the best day trips near Alnwick. The small island also known as Lindisfarne was once home to St Aidan, a renowned religious figure who was crucial in promoting Christianity during the middle ages in England.
Today the island is home to Lindisfarne Castle and ruins of the Lindisfarne Priory, these historic sites can be easily explored. Lindisfarne also has beautiful views of the Northumberland coast area.
The Holy Island can be reached by causeway, an ocean road which floods twice a day. For this reason you will have to plan your visit carefully and make sure you don't get trapped on the tidal island.
Berwick-upon-Tweed
If you have seen everything there is to see in Alnwick Northumberland and would like to visit a historic town with just as much character as Alwnick, then look no further than Berwick-Upon-Tweed. This border town is the northernmost town in England and sits at the border of Scotland.
Riverside view of Berwick-upon-Tweed
The town has a ton of history, beautiful medieval bridges and buildings, and much of it is perched on the scenic River Tweed. The Royal Border Bridge is an iconic landmark of Berwick-upon-Tweed and is one of the most incredible railway bridges I have ever seen. Visiting Berwick-upon-Tweed was worth it just to see this bridge.
View of Berwick-upon-Tweed and the Royal Border Bridge
There are plenty of things to see in the town, and it is only a 40-minute drive from Alnwick or around 1 hour by public transport. Berwick-upon-Tweed is undoubtedly worth visiting, but it should only be a day trip from Alnwick as you will need a minimum of half a day to walk around the beautiful historic town.
Alnwick is a destination that effortlessly blends history and natural beauty. With its iconic Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Garden, this picturesque town in Northumberland is a must-visit.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover or both, Alnwick offers plenty to see. The nearby sites, towns and national parks also mean that Alnwick is an excellent base for exploring the beauty of Northumberland.