Alnwick Castle

The Alnwick Castle

The Alnwick Castle, located in the charming town of Alnwick in Northumberland, is a stunning piece of architecture and a must-see destination for history lovers and tourists alike. The castle has been home to the Percy family, the Earls and Dukes of Northumberland, for over 700 years and has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century.

One of the first things that visitors will notice upon arriving at the castle is its impressive size and grandeur. The castle is surrounded by a moat and has a large, fortified entrance that leads into the inner courtyard. The castle is built in the Gothic style, with tall towers and turrets that give it a majestic and imposing appearance.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions that showcase the history of the Percy family and the castle itself. The castle has a number of staterooms that are open to the public, including the Great Hall, which was used for banquets and other grand occasions. The castle also has a number of galleries that feature artwork and artefacts from the Percy family’s collection.

In addition to the exhibitions, the castle also offers a number of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular is the Knight’s Quest, a live-action experience that allows visitors to take part in medieval-style activities such as sword fighting and archery. The castle also has a variety of gardens that are perfect for a stroll, including the Walled Garden, which is home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers.

The Alnwick Castle is also a filming location for many movies and TV series. The Harry Potter movies used the castle as Hogwarts and visitors can experience the magic of Hogwarts with the Harry Potter-themed activities, such as broomstick training and potions class, as well as see the locations where the scenes were filmed.

Overall, Alnwick Castle is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Northumberland. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and wide range of activities, it offers something for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a movie fan or just looking for a fun day out, Alnwick Castle is sure to impress.