How to Spend 48 Hours in Alnwick
Alnwick is the perfect destination for a weekday or weekend stay. Welcoming and picturesque, this Northumberland town offers plenty to keep you busy, whether you’re visiting for a romantic break, a family getaway, or as a solo adventure.
From places to stay to unusual things to do — including a visit to Alnwick Castle, of course — let’s explore spending 48 hours in Alnwick.
The best places to stay in Alnwick
Before we go through our 48-hour Alnwick itinerary, it’s worth planning ahead to make sure you have somewhere to stay. From cosy bed and breakfasts and traditional inns, to nearby camping and glamping sites, there’s accommodation to suit every preference and budget.
Some top choices for places to stay in Alnwick include:
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Bailiffgate Hotel: Here you’ll find luxurious rooms and suites, perfect for a relaxing stay.
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The Hog’s Head Inn: Ideal for families, you can expect comfortable rooms, great food, and a fun children’s playground for your little ones.
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Village Farm Cottages: These self-catering cottages offer dog-friendly options, spa facilities, and accessible spaces.
Day 1: Morning
Arriving early is a great way to get the most out of your 48-hour visit to Alnwick. If you haven’t yet checked into your accommodation, you’ll find various options for parking in Alnwick, including in the town centre.
Explore the town centre
Looking for things to do in Alnwick?
Kick your visit off with a browse of the beautiful town. Explore the cobbled streets, where you’ll find an array of independent shops, including Barter Books — a must-visit for bookworms. Tucked away in the beautiful Victorian train station, Barter Books is Europe's largest second-hand bookshop.
Day 1: Afternoon
As lunchtime approaches, refuel with a bite to eat. Some of our favourite places to eat in Alnwick include:
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The Market Tavern for pub grub
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Strawberry Lounge for hot drinks and desserts
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The Pig in Muck for alfresco dining
Visit Alnwick Castle
Once you’re feeling refreshed and revived, why not head over to Alnwick Castle? The beauty of purchasing a ticket for Alnwick Castle is that they are valid for 12 months. This means you can explore the space one day and then return the next for more castle fun!
There are so many things to do at Alnwick Castle — splitting your visit across two days is the best way to browse the wonderful castle grounds at your leisure and really take it all in.
For your first afternoon, why not head over to the Artisan’s Courtyard, where you can embark on the exciting Dragon’s Quest?
Day 1: Evening
After you’ve explored the castle, take your pick from the best places to eat in Alnwick and enjoy a hearty dinner. There are some fantastic pubs in Alnwick offering delicious evening meals. The à la carte menu at Adam and Eve is a top choice for a sophisticated experience.
What about some evening entertainment?
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Seasonal events at Alnwick Castle: If you’re visiting in the summer, take a look at what’s on at Alnwick Castle. From outdoor cinema screenings to alfresco theatre performances, our programme provides exclusive opportunities to visit after hours.
Likewise, keep an eye out for our Halloween spooktaculars if you’re visiting in October! -
Go for an evening stroll: There are some beautiful walks around Alnwick, ideal for appreciating the local scenery. You could wander along the banks of the River Aln, or do a peaceful loop around the town.
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Watch the sunset on the coast: A 15-minute drive from Alnwick will take you to Alnmouth beach. Here, you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and watch the sunset cast a beautiful golden glow across the landscape.
Day 2: Morning
For Day 2, head over to Alnwick Castle early (we open at 10am) to make the most of your visit.
Discover Alnwick Castle’s interiors
Are you looking for things to do in Alnwick in the rain? There’s a wealth to explore indoors, no matter the weather! Wander the castle’s magnificent interiors, where you can step back in time and learn all about the history of the Percy family.
New to 2025, you can visit the Great Kitchen, which has recently been rediscovered and restored. There are three museums at Alnwick Castle to explore, showcasing archaeological artefacts, military items, and interactive exhibitions that will enthral all age groups.
For additional insight into Alnwick Castle’s history, tales, and secrets, join our experts on a guided tour.
Day 2: Afternoon
When lunchtime rolls around, you can find a range of delicious food and drink options right here at Alnwick Castle.
Our recently revamped Pizzeria and Ice Cream Parlour provides tasty handmade pizzas and locally-sourced ice cream, while the Courtyard Cafe offers soup, savoury nibbles, and sweet treats. Plus, during the school holidays, you can also pick up freshly made paninis or sandwiches from the Armoury takeaway.
Give archery and broomstick training a go
Feeling refreshed? On a clear day, you can pop out to the Archery Lawn for our
Have-a-Go Archery sessions. Under expert guidance, you’ll master the centuries-old technique, learning how to take aim, draw your arrow, and hit the bullseye.
We also highly recommend trying your hand at broomstick training — the perfect activity for any Harry Potter fan.
Don’t forget to visit the Courtyard Gift Shop before you head off!
Day 2: Evening
After all the excitement of the day, you’ll want to find another great place for dinner. For a truly opulent option, book a table at Sonnet, where you’ll be presented with an incredible 14-course tasting menu.
Alternatively, Di Sopra is the place to go for authentic Italian cuisine, including dedicated dairy-free and gluten-free menus.
Whether you fancy a cosy pint or an elegant cocktail, Alnwick is also home to a variety of pubs and bars that are the ideal place to toast to the final night of your stay. Try Tanners Arms for a characterful inn serving top-quality beer, or head to The Dirty Bottles for classic cocktails and a varied wine menu.
Plan your visit to Alnwick Castle
There are plenty of exciting and unusual things to do in Alnwick. Whether you’re planning a 48-hour whistlestop tour or a more extensive stay, a ticket to Alnwick Castle will provide entertainment for all ages. Plus, your tickets are valid for 12 months, so you can return whenever you like!