Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in England. Built as a medieval fortress and owned by the Percy family for over 700 years, Alnwick Castle is now home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland and an award-winning visitor attraction in Northumberland. A great day out for families near Newcastle or history buffs who want to wander the ancient halls of a Northumberland castle.

Not only a spectacular historical castle set in the stunning Northumberland countryside, Alnwick Castle is also famous for being one of the filming locations for the blockbuster film series Harry Potter and television favourite, Downton Abbey. Alnwick Castle is a great day out for all the family and, unsurprisingly, a lot like stepping into a film set!

With daily tours and activities, in addition to special performances, Knight Quests and the Castles famous Broomstick Training lessons, there is always something exciting to see and do at Alnwick Castle. Whether dressing up in medieval costume, practising archery or admiring the art of the State Rooms, Alnwick Castle provides a memorable experience for every member of the family.

How to get to Alnwick Castle using public transport

Alnwick Castle is approximately 33 miles north of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. Arriva Buses X15 and X18 go from Newcastle Haymarket Bus Station to Alnwick via Morpeth on A1. The journey takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and arrives at Alnwick Bus Station. The entrance to Alnwick Castle is a short, five-minute walk from the bus station via Fenkle Street. Alnwick Garden is to the east of the Castle, a five-minute walk from the bus station. There is a tourist information centre in Alnwick Town Centre between the Castle and Garden if you need a map or directions. Alnmouth is the nearest railway station, four miles east of Alnwick. It is on the East Coast Main Line and some services running between Edinburgh, Newcastle and London stop here. Arriva bus X18 connects Alnmouth Railway Station to Alnwick in one direction and the North Northumberland Coast in another.