Alnwick Castle
Experience the Drama and Grandeur of Alnwick Castle
The awe-inspiring exterior of Alnwick Castle rises gloriously above the Northumberland countryside like a scene from a storybook. With crenelated towers, soaring ramparts, and opulent interiors, Alnwick embodies people's imaginings of a perfect medieval castle. As the second largest inhabited castle in England, visiting Alnwick allows you to step into a world of ancient chivalry and gothic grandeur.
For over 700 years, Alnwick has been the grand ancestral home of the aristocratic Percy family, the historic Earls of Northumberland whose coat of arms still dominates the grounds. Walking through Alnwick's bustling courtyards and elaborate State Rooms today conjures vivid images of knights in armour, legendary banquets, and echoes of perilous medieval border battles with Scotland just a stone's throw away.
The site's rich history and dramatic location overlooking the River Aln have captivated for centuries. With tours, events, gardens and pop culture connections, Alnwick enthralls modern visitors just as in centuries past.
The Dramatic Exterior
Approaching from town, Alnwick's majestic exterior dominates the horizon. The powerful medieval stonework with crenellated battlements and decorative turrets proves instantly recognizable to many as “Hogwarts Castle” from the Harry Potter films.
Passing under the formidable barbican gate into the Outer Ward, get your first thrilling view of the towering keep and concentric defensive walls. Look up in awe at Constable's Tower with its striking zig-zag and triangular patterns created for decoration and sentry protection. Everywhere intricate masonry rewards closer inspection.
Panoramic views from the ramparts help envision Alnwick's strategic position guarding crossings over the River Aln. Sixteen acres of grounds mean there’s space and tranquility to appreciate the epic architecture.
Inside the Castle Walls
Beyond dramatic exteriors, exploring inside Alnwick Castle brings its rich history to life. On a highlights tour, you’ll learn vivid stories of wars, sieges, religious turmoil, and Harry "Hotspur" Percy whose exploits earned him his fiery nickname.
See remnants of the original 12th century Norman castle in the Middle Ward before entering the lavish Renaissance-style State Rooms. Admire Italianate paintings, extravagant architecture and furniture fit for royalty in spaces like the formal Dining Room where Northumberland nobles once entertained.
Upstairs, the glorious private Library displays over 16,000 antique books beneath a stunning ceiling handpainted in ornamental 3D detail. The understated beauty of St. Michael's Church within the grounds provides a quiet spot for contemplation.
From its impenetrable medieval walls to the opulent interiors, Alnwick Castle encapsulates the drama, resilience and grandeur of English nobility through the ages.
Visiting the Castle
Alnwick Castle is open for tours March through October with reduced winter opening. General admission starts around £16 for adults and £8.50 for children 5-16. Combined tickets with Alnwick Gardens are available. The castle is a short uphill walk from Alnwick town centre.
Fans of Harry Potter especially delight in recognizing the exterior from the films. But the interior's true history and architecture prove even more captivating. Whether you love medieval castles or just seek a magical day out, Alnwick's splendour and stories create an unforgettable experience.
Find it:
Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ