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Accessibility at Alnwick Castle

We want everyone to enjoy Alnwick Castle. While the historic nature of the castle and grounds can present some challenges, we’re committed to making your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here’s a simple guide to the key accessibility information you might need.

Pre-Visit Information

Parking

  • Disabled parking is available at Castle Square (postcode NE66 1NG).
  • Additional disabled parking is available in The Alnwick Garden main car park.
  • The shortest route from main car park to the Castle entrance is via The Alnwick Garden and is approximately 600m.

Wheelchair and Pushchair Access

  • There is partial access for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
  • Please ask a staff member on arrival for the most suitable routes.

Motorised Scooters

  • A small number of scooters are available free of charge.
  • Pre-booking is required: call 01665 511 178.
  • Scooters cannot be used in the Gift Shop or on the steps to the Gun Terrace. 

Assistance Dogs

  • Guide dogs, hearing dogs, and other trained assistance dogs are welcome.
  • Dogs must be kept on a short lead.
  • If possible, bring your Assistance Dogs (UK) ID book.
  • Emotional support animals are not permitted.

Accessible Toilets

  • Accessible toilets are located between the Courtyard Café and the Pizzeria.
  • More accessible toilets are available at The Alnwick Garden Pavilion.

Carers

  • Carers accompanying disabled visitors receive free entry.
  • Proof is required, such as:
    • A letter confirming Carer’s Allowance or local authority recognition
    • A GP letter confirming carer status
    • A recognised carer card (CredAbility, CEA Card, etc.)

Getting Around

Castle Grounds and Towers

  • Surfaces vary: cobbles, grass, gravel, and stairs.

  • Towers have narrow spiral staircases.

  • Motorised scooters cannot be used in the Gift Shop.

  • The Courtyard Cafe and Pizzeria are accessible.

    • Steps lead to the main seated area in the Cafe.

The State Rooms

  • There are steps in this area, so access is limited.

  • To get to the State Rooms, go through the Lower Guard Chamber.

  • There are 7 steps in total:

    • 3 steps to enter the Lower Guard Chamber

    • 4 steps to reach the lift

  • Staff can place a manual wheelchair at the bottom of the first 3 steps.

    • You must be able to move yourself between wheelchairs.

    • Staff are available to assist. 

  • After the steps, a one-person lift avoids the Grand Staircase.

    • The lift cannot take wheelchairs, but it has a seat.

    • Staff are available to help.

    • Visitors with mobility difficulties can exit using this lift.

  • Motorised scooters and powered wheelchairs cannot enter the State Rooms.

  • There are no ramps.

  • Manual wheelchairs are provided when possible.

  • Prams must be left in the courtyard before entering.

The Great Kitchen

  • Access is via steps with handrails or a chair lift (available from 2026).

  • Visitors using the lift enter and exit through the same doorway.

  • Prams are not permitted in The Great Kitchen, but storage space is available.

Exploring Accessibility at Alnwick Castle: A Visual Guide