Family Day Out Itinerary at Alnwick Castle
Planning a family day out at Alnwick Castle? With so much to see and do, a little planning can help you make the most of your visit. From exploring the castle and Artisans’ Courtyard to taking part in Dragon Quest, Broomstick Training and archery, there’s plenty to keep children of all ages entertained throughout the day.
Our suggested itinerary helps you plan your time around the castle’s activities, tours and entertainment, with ideas for making the most of your morning, fitting in lunch and choosing the right experiences for your family. Younger children may enjoy starting with the guided tour and Artisans’ Courtyard before taking on Dragon Quest, while older children can look forward to Broomstick Training or archery later in the day.
And it’s not just families who are drawn to Alnwick Castle. Film fans will recognise it as one of the UK’s most iconic filming locations, having featured as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films and as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey. During your visit, you can discover these famous locations, join designated film and TV tours, and see the castle brought to life through the stories that have made it famous around the world.
Read on for our suggested family itinerary and start planning your day at Alnwick Castle.
Family day out: At a glance
- Visit length: Allow a full day to explore Alnwick Castle and enjoy the family activities
- Opening hours: 10am–5pm, March to October
- Family highlights: Dragon Quest, Broomstick Training, archery and the Artisans’ Courtyard
- Harry Potter fans: Discover famous filming locations and try Broomstick Training
- History: Explore the State Rooms, Great Kitchen, museums and other historic areas of the castle
- Lunch: Courtyard Café, Pizzeria and Ice Cream Parlour
- Plan ahead: Check activity times and download the app and check if you are eligible for discounted tickets
- Didn't manage to see everything? Don't worry — your ticket is automatically upgraded to a season pass, so you can come back and enjoy unlimited visits for 12 months.
Your Morning at Alnwick Castle
Start your family day at Alnwick Castle with a mix of history, entertainment and hands-on activities. Arriving when the castle opens gives you plenty of time to explore before lunch, with something to keep children of different ages entertained.
Pick up a map when you arrive, or download our app or one of our free trails before you arrive.
10am: Discover the castle
Begin with a 30-minute family-friendly guided tour, exploring the castle’s rooms, history and hidden corners.
Check the What’s On board when you arrive for performance times and other activities taking place during your visit.
11.30am: Explore the Artisans’ Courtyard
Step back in time at the Artisans’ Courtyard, where children can dress up in medieval costumes, play traditional games and discover crafts and demonstrations. With plenty of opportunities to get involved, it’s a great stop for families with younger children.
12.30pm: Take on Dragon Quest
Ready for an adventure? Dragon Quest invites children aged 5–12 to hunt mythical beasts through an immersive world of special effects and challenges.
Navigate the mirror maze, cross the fiery bridge and brave the dizzying whirlpool as you search for elusive dragons making it an exciting way to round off your morning before lunch.
Lunch at Alnwick Castle
After a morning of exploring, refuel at the Courtyard Café, Pizzeria or Ice Cream Parlour. With family-friendly favourites including Northumberland savoury bites, paninis, pizzas, salads and sweet treats, there’s something to suit everyone before heading off for your afternoon activities.
Your Afternoon Adventure
After lunch, continue your Alnwick Castle family itinerary with a mix of wizarding magic, hands-on activities and time to explore the castle’s fascinating history.
2.30pm: Learn to fly like Harry Potter
Alnwick Castle was the backdrop for Harry Potter’s first flying lesson, and families can recreate the experience with Broomstick Training.
Sessions last around 30 minutes and run throughout the day, weather permitting. This activity is included with your ticket but we recommend you book a time slot when you arrive.
3pm: Explore the castle
Take time to discover Alnwick Castle beyond its famous film connections. Visit the Great Kitchen to see where food was prepared for the castle’s residents, then find the Prison and discover a darker side of its history.
These historic spaces offer a fascinating glimpse into life at one of England’s most impressive medieval castles.
4pm: Have a go at archery
Head to the Archery Lawn for Have-a-Go Archery. Specialist instructors will teach you the basics before you take aim and test your skills. Check current session times and prices when planning your visit.
4.30pm: Finish with a castle souvenir
Round off your family day by exploring the gift shop, with a special gift and other souvenirs to remember your visit.
Extend Your Stay
There are plenty of things to do in Northumberland for families, so why not make a holiday of your trip? Explore the charming streets of Alnwick, discover historic attractions and enjoy the county’s beautiful sandy beaches — there’s more than enough to fill a few days.
Overlooking Alnwick Castle, Bailiffgate Hotel offers stylish family rooms and suites, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. You don’t need to be staying at the hotel to enjoy a meal here either — non-residents are welcome to dine and enjoy a relaxed meal after a day exploring Alnwick.
Find the latest accommodation and dining details on our Bailiffgate Hotel page and start planning your Northumberland family getaway.