The historic town of Alnwick, seat of the Duke of Northumberland, is said, by many, to be the most picturesque market town in Northumberland.

Once an important staging post only a day’s ride from Berwick upon Tweed to the North and Newcastle upon Tyne to the South, the town’s fine stone buildings, cobbled streets and narrow alleys provide the perfect setting for an enjoyable stay. At the centre of the town is the Market Place where weekly markets and monthly Farmers’ markets take place throughout the year along with other events including the International Music Festival.

The medieval Alnwick Castle, still home to the Duke and his family, stands by the River Aln in parkland designed by Capability Brown. The exterior is an imposing fortress but once you step inside it is breathtakingly beautiful. Decorated and refurbished in the 19th century in the Italian Renaissance style, you can, however, still see fine ceilings and chimney pieces by Robert Adam. Many visitors may also recognise it as ‘Hogwarts’ from the ever-popular Harry Potter films.

The Alnwick Garden has become a tremendous visitor attraction, with its 12 acres of landscaped gardens featuring a fabulous central water cascade, The Tree House, Poison Garden and the Bamboo Labyrinth.
The Playhouse on Bondgate Without is recognised as one of the North East’s leading small theatres and offers the very best in live performances featuring music, drama and dance as well as the latest film releases.

For book-lovers, a visit to Barter Books is a must. Over 350,000 books are housed in the grand Victorian former railway station. If you would like to find out more about Alnwick’s rich history then visit the Bailiffgate Museum.