Alnwick Castle
Alnwick, Northumberland
Alnwick Castle holds great popularity in the North East of England for multiple reasons, encompassing its intriguing historical background and its connection to iconic movies. The castle’s construction commenced around 1096, closely following the Norman Conquest (1066-1075) and the First Battle of Alnwick (1093). Its primary purpose was to provide protection at the border of England and Scotland. Since the 14th century, Alnwick Castle has served as the residence of the Percy Family, and presently, it is inhabited by the 12th Duke of Northumberland, Ralph Percy, along with his family. This renders Alnwick Castle as the second largest occupied castle in England, succeeding only Windsor Castle.
Alnwick Castle has been featured in 41 movies and tv shows, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Harry Potter fans may recognise this castle as Hogwarts School, and the Outer Bailey as the location where Harry and his classmates had their first flying lesson in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Harry also learned the ins and outs of Quidditch in the Outer Bailey. The castle was then featured in the second film, ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’; one of the scenes fans may remember is where Harry and Ron crashed the flying car. This scene was in the Inner Bailey at Alnwick Castle.
Alnwick Castle has so much to offer any visitor, whether you’re interested in its extensive history, its film links, or its impressive architecture and gardens. Some of the terrain around the castle may be unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, but there are plenty of areas that are accessible to explore; dogs are not allowed within the grounds, unless they are assistance dogs.
Prices
Tickets are available to pre book online at www.alnwickcastle.com. Online tickets will automatically be converted to an annual pass, so you can visit as many times as you would like in a 12-month period. If you buy tickets at the gate, you can upgrade your ticket to an annual pass at no extra cost.
Online prices for Alnwick Castle:
- Adult – £19.50
- Concessions (60+ or student) – £15.75
- Children (5-16) – £10.75
- Under 4’s – Free
Gate prices for Alnwick Castle:
- Adult – £20.50
- Concessions (60+ of student) – £16.50
- Children (5-16) – £10.75
- Under 4’s – Free
Parking
There is ample parking within the vicinity of the castle. With a Northumberland Council parking disc, you can park for free; if you do not have a parking disc, you are able to obtain one for £1 from plenty of the local shops in the area. Postcode for the car park is NE66 1YU.
**Prices correct as of August 2023**
