Alnwick 

The ‘beating’ heart of Northumberland 

Alnwick is fast becoming one of the country’s top tourist destinations. It is home to the magnificent Alnwick Castle, the inspired Alnwick Garden and also Barter Books, recently called The British Library of second hand bookshops. Originally a medieval market town it still retains many of its cobbled streets, narrow alleys and fine stone buildings which now house a range of specialist shops. With its own theatre and cinema, many restaurants and pubs, the town offers something from everyone. Why not fine dine in the splendid surroundings of The Alnwick Garden Treehouse or indulge in some fish and chips from Carlo’s. The market square hosts weekly markets on Thursday and Saturday and a Farmers Market on the last Friday of the month. 

The World Renowned Alnwick Castle & Gardens 

The castle dominates the town and has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years. Its grounds were designed by Capability Brown, the beautiful state rooms are of Italian renaissance design, and there are paintings by Canaletto, Van Dyck and Titian. The castle has been used many times as a film location, most notably Robin Hood, Downton Abbey and of course Harry Potter. Take part in a host of exciting events – from broomstick training to Dragon quests – there is fun to be had for the whole fam-ily. 

Nearby lies Alnwick Garden – a truly inspiring landscape with beautiful gardens, designed for every season. From fragrant roses to mirror-polished water features, the world’s largest tree house to a poison garden – there is always something to admire and plenty of vibrant activities too. 

These boots are made for Walking 

There are a series of walks through countryside and around the town. One route leads south from Alnwick Garden, heads down to the River Aln with three other routes in Hulne Park. 

The 19th Tee 

Alnwick Castle Golf Club’s 18-hole parkland course is sure to please with the possible exception of the 14th hole, a monster par 5 known as The Lang Wang. 

Worth a Visit 

Edlingham Castle, on the road to Rothbury, is a picturesque ruin once offering protection against the marauding Border Rievers. Cragside House, Gardens and Woodland, situated near Rothbury, was the home of Lord Armstrong. It was the first building in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity and has a wealth of other gadgetry. Its grounds, which are dog friendly, offer a host of activities to keep you busy and fit. 

‘Give it a Go’ 

Stroll around town on market day and enjoy its lively atmosphere. 

Visit Bailiffgate Museum and enjoy their interactive exhibits. 

Explore Hulne Park with Brizlee Tower and Alnwick Abbey ruins. 

Spend some time at the amazing Barter Books. They have a lovely cafe too. 

Try a spot of indoor rock-climbing at Willowburn Sports Centre. 

The ‘Tea’ Trail 

Bari Tea, Narrowgate. Bari is pronounced ‘Baa-ree’ and means ‘lovely’ in Northumbrian. 

‘A few of our holidaymakers’ favourite things’ 

Barter Books in Alnwick was amazing. The best second-hand bookshop I’ve ever been in. Popped in for an hour and came out six hours later! 

A morning at Hogwarts (aka Alnwick Castle). We dressed up, battled a dragon and did magic with the Harry Potter and Hagred characters. We then had a picnic in The Alnwick Gardens and the children played in the water park followed by an amazing supper in The Treehouse restaurant. Totally unforgettable! 

Alnwick is a wonderful place to stay in, both as a town and as a base for touring – it’s very central in Northumberland. I can’t imagine how it could be surpassed. 

The walk along the river with Alnwick Castle as a backdrop was magnificent. 

Browse through this wonderful collection of Alnwick accommodation and sample these much-loved things to do for yourself!