Whether you visit for the day or a longer stretch, there’s plenty to see and do in Alnwick to keep visitors of all ages entertained. From making magical memories with a spot of broomstick training at Alnwick Castle, to dining in the trees at Alnwick Garden’s majestic Treehouse restaurant, here’s our top things to do in Alnwick.
Alnwick Castle
No visit to Alnwick is complete without a visit to Alnwick Castle. Experience medieval life for yourself as you venture through the castle’s grounds and watch history come to life; enjoy regular events, including archery, jousts and jester shows.
The castle was used for the filming of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, so it’s a must-visit for any movie buffs! Discover the spot where the Weasley family’s flying car crashed, or try your hand at broomstick training on the very spot where Harry and his friends were taught.
Enter the Dragons Lair if you dare. As you come face to face with the castle’s resident dragon, will you solve the puzzles and escape the lair? Dragon Quest is great fun the whole family can enjoy.
Book your tickets for Alnwick Castle online today and enjoy 10% off prices at the gate.
Alnwick Gardens
“The Alnwick Garden” by Amanda Slater is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Alnwick Gardens is a great all-rounder if you’re looking for things to do in Alnwick. With a variety of exotic plants, trees and flowers, it’s the perfect attraction for keen gardeners. The Garden’s majestic landscapes will inspire your own garden at home.
With imposing gates with signs reading ‘these plants can kill’, pay a visit to the Poison Garden. This carefully curated selection of plants are some of the most deadly in the world. Don’t worry though — they’re kept securely out of reach.
But there’s much more to Alnwick Gardens than its leafy residents. Challenge your family and friends to a game of adventure golf, traverse the wobbly rope bridges of the Treehouse to enjoy a bite to eat, or lose yourself in the twists and turns of the bamboo labyrinth.
If you are planning a visit to Alnwick Gardens, did you know you can book Castle and Garden combined tickets, and save on your admission? More information about the tickets can be found here and they are available to book online.
Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery
If visiting Alnwick Castle has left you wanting more of Northumberland’s history, pay a visit to the Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery. Located near to Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Garden, the former church has been transformed into three floors of history and art.
The main exhibitions showcase more than 10,000 years of Alnwick and the surrounding area’s history, while pop-up exhibitions change regularly so there’s always something new to discover.
There are also regular talks and classes each month, so why not expand your knowledge or try your hand at something new, such as weaving?
More information about what’s on at the Bailiffegate Museum & Gallery can be
found on their website.
Hulne Park
“
Hulne Park Monk” by
Andrew Cheal is licensed under
CC BY-ND 2.0.
Northumberland is famed for its beautiful green landscapes and Alnwick’s Hulne Park is no exception. The park, which is located close to Alnwick Castle, was landscaped by Capability Brown, who has worked on some of the most iconic landscapes in the UK.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs, explore majestic greenery or simply enjoy some time outdoors with the family, Hulne Park is the perfect thing to do in Alnwick. So you can see the most of the park during the visit, there are a variety of walking routes to choose from, ranging in length from 4 miles, up to 6.2 miles.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted in the park, but it does have its own wildlife who call the park home. A
Capability Brown exhibition is also in-place at Alnwick Castle, so if a visit to Hulne Park has left you feeling inspired to find out more about this talented landscaper, it’s well worth a visit.
Shops & Restaurants in Alnwick
Of course, a visit to the town centre also provides a wealth of things to see and do in Alnwick, offering a mix of shops, pubs and restaurants that are perfect for enjoying Alnwick at your own pace.
With a triangular shopping area, three streets of stores offer everything from traditional butchers and bakers to high street brands and gift stores — perfect for picking up a souvenir of your trip or something for a loved one back home. Perhaps one of the most iconic stores in Alnwick is
Barter Books. One of the largest second hand book stores in the country, the shop is located in Alnwick’s stunning Victorian railway station. Make time to discover this historic treasure trove of books during your visit.
Likewise, there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat too. Make a pit stop for a quick coffee and snack at Grannies. Located on Narrowgate, the café is well known for its selection of cakes and serves a range of light bites, from sandwiches to salads. Of course, you can’t beat traditional pub food. Enjoy hearty pies, stews and more at The Black Swan, also located on Narrowgate.
With gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. For a 3-course restaurant meal, you’re spoilt for choice. Head to Thai Vibe to find freshly prepared Thai food, enjoy American-style burgers and barbeque food at The Dirty Bottles or try a taste of Italy at Caffe Tirrenno.
Whatever you’re looking for from your visit, there are plenty of things to do in Alnwick to keep everyone entertained. Start planning your next visit today.