Alnwick Castle
A magnificent medieval castle, famous as Hogwarts in Harry Potter, offering flying lessons and opulent state rooms.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for photos
Alnwick Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent medieval castle, famous as Hogwarts in Harry Potter, offering flying lessons and opulent state rooms.
"Absolutely stunning castle! There’s a broomstick lesson on the ground which is need to pay more but surely unique."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save money & time! Get 15-20% off by booking Alnwick Castle tickets in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the castle and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hogwarts Flying Lessons
Castle Grounds
Channel your inner wizard with broomstick flying lessons, just like Harry Potter! Free with admission, but tickets go fast.
+2
State Rooms
Inside the Castle
Explore opulent rooms, including a library and study, still used by the Percy family today. Prepare to be amazed by the rich colors.
The Dragon's Gate
Alnwick Gardens
A whimsical world for all ages, featuring a magical village and stunning garden designs.
Medieval History
Castle Exterior & Grounds
Wander through a historic fortress built in the 11th century, a key defensive point against Scotland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Castle vs. Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save money & time! Get 15-20% off by booking Alnwick Castle tickets in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the castle and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
💨 Flying Lesson Tickets
Grab your free flying lesson tickets first thing! They go quickly.
☔ Be Prepared for Rain
Northumberland weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and waterproofs. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save money & time! Get 15-20% off by booking Alnwick Castle tickets in advance. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the castle and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
💨 Flying Lesson Tickets
Grab your free flying lesson tickets first thing! They go quickly.
☔ Be Prepared for Rain
Northumberland weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and waterproofs. +1
🚗 Parking Practicalities
Card payment at the main car park is easiest. Blue badge bays are near the castle gates.
☕ Cafe Pizza is a Hit
Delicious pizza slices available at the cafe, a good value meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Alnwick Castle for its stunning architecture and its strong connection to the Harry Potter films, particularly the flying lessons. The state rooms are a highlight, offering a glimpse into the family's history. While some find parts of the castle resemble a theme park, most agree it's a great place for families with lots to see and do. Accessibility can be a challenge in some areas due to the historic nature of the site.
"Such fun. Perfect size for a couple hours of investigating. The castle was impeccably maintained and absolutely gorgeous inside and out. The cafe was delicious and well priced with plenty of options. The gardens were also nice and the hot food selections there were great. Good place for kids/families. We had a great time wandering around!"
zacry
"A gorgeous castle with a fascinating history—definitely worth a visit! The views are breathtaking, and the staff are warm and welcoming. I also had the chance to join a Quidditch lesson, which was so much fun (even tho it’s serious business!). Overall, a wonderful and memorable experience :)))”"
Elena Ilieva
"Gorgeous castle! For Harry Potter fans, this is where the famous broomstick flying scene from the first movie was filmed!
There are talks and events throughout the day regarding the magical side of the castle as well as more traditional evens like weapons and armor talks, soap making and a fun dragon quest!
A place with rich history and enjoyability for all ages!
10/10 highly recommend"
Yoshua Nirpaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take a direct train from London King's Cross to Alnmouth station. From there, catch the X20 bus towards Alnwick bus station, followed by a short 10-minute walk to the castle.
While possible, it's a long journey from London. Many visitors opt to stay overnight in Alnwick to fully explore the castle and surrounding areas like Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle.
Yes, there is a main car park located near Alnwick Gardens. Card payment is accepted. There are also two Blue Badge parking bays near the castle gates.
Yes, Alnwick Castle is accessible by bus. The X20 bus route connects Alnmouth train station to Alnwick town center, which is a short walk from the castle.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to travel between Alnwick Castle and Bamburgh Castle, allowing you to explore the Northumberland coast at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but booking online in advance often provides a discount of 15-20%. Check the official Alnwick Castle website for current pricing.
No, Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Gardens are separate attractions and require separate tickets. You can purchase combined tickets or individual entry.
Yes, you can often extend your Alnwick Castle ticket for free to be valid for a year, allowing for repeat visits.
Yes, carers typically receive a reduced price as a companion. You will need to show ID, such as a carer's card or letter, to prove eligibility.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Alnwick Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any seasonal closures.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the free broomstick flying lessons, exploring the state rooms, and enjoying the falconry shows. The Harry Potter connection is a major draw for many visitors.
Absolutely! Alnwick Castle offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including flying lessons, historical reenactments, and the magical Lilidorei village in the gardens.
Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside the state rooms of Alnwick Castle. However, you can capture plenty of stunning shots of the exterior and grounds.
Yes, guided tours are available and offer insights into the castle's history and the Percy family. Check the daily itinerary for timings.
Lilidorei is a magical village located within the grounds of Alnwick Gardens, designed for all ages with enchanting play areas and immersive experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafe offers a selection of delicious pizza slices at a reasonable price, which are highly recommended. There are also other food and drink options available.
Yes, Alnwick town has several dining options. For a lovely meal, consider The Bosk restaurant, located a short drive away in Beamish Valley.
Yes, there is a large gift shop with a wide variety of interesting souvenirs, including items for younger visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle exterior, especially with its dramatic architecture, and the surrounding grounds offer fantastic photo opportunities. The courtyards used in Harry Potter are also popular.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Alnwick Castle to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the official policy before flying.
Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas and grounds. However, photos are not permitted inside the state rooms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Beyond the magic, the castle offers historical reenactments, falconry shows, and plenty of space to run around. Don't forget to explore Lilidorei in the Alnwick Gardens for an extra dose of enchantment. 🏰 History Buffs
Explore the state rooms to understand the wealth and importance of the Percy family, who still reside there today. ✨ Harry Potter Fans
+3 Experience the thrill of flying lessons where Harry first learned to ride a broomstick. +1 Wander the courtyards and imagine yourself as a student at the wizarding school. It's an immersive experience that brings the magic of the movies to life. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Harry Potter Connection
+5Beyond the flying lessons, simply wandering through the castle courtyards and ramparts can evoke a sense of wonder for fans. The sheer scale and medieval architecture of Alnwick Castle make it a believable stand-in for the wizarding school. It's a chance to step into the world of magic and create your own enchanting memories.
While the Harry Potter connection is a major draw, remember that Alnwick Castle has a rich history predating its film fame. It's a genuine medieval fortress with centuries of stories to tell, offering a dual appeal for both pop culture enthusiasts and history buffs.
Accessibility at Alnwick Castle
For those with mobility concerns, Alnwick Gardens, which requires a separate ticket, is fully accessible and often recommended as a more comfortable option for wheelchair users. The gardens feature accessible paths, cafes, shops, and toilets.
When planning your visit, it's advisable to check the official Alnwick Castle website for the most current accessibility information. They also offer reduced prices for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities, so be sure to inquire about this when purchasing tickets.
Exploring Alnwick Town and Beyond
For those looking to extend their visit to the Northumberland region, Alnwick serves as a good base. Nearby attractions include the stunning Bamburgh Castle perched on the coast and the historical Holy Island (Lindisfarne). Many travelers suggest renting a car to fully experience the beauty of the Northumberland coast and its castles.
Consider combining your visit to Alnwick Castle with a trip to the Alnwick Gardens, which offers a different kind of enchantment with its unique garden designs and the magical Lilidorei village.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit