Alnwick Castle in Northumberland on a bright spring day

What’s On in Alnwick: Spring & Early Summer 2026

If you’re wondering what’s on in Alnwick this spring, this guide brings together some of the best confirmed events in and around the town for spring and early summer 2026. From Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden to live entertainment at Alnwick Playhouse and major Northumberland events nearby, there is plenty to enjoy whether you are visiting for a short break, family stay or weekend away.

We have listed everything in date order to make planning easier. Wherever possible, we have linked to the official organiser so you can check the latest tickets, times and event details directly before travelling.

Please note that event dates, opening times and availability can change, so always check the official host website before making final plans.

What’s on in Alnwick in March 2026

Alnwick Castle reopens – from 27 March 2026

Alnwick Castle reopens for the 2026 season on Friday 27 March, making late March a great time to visit the town as the main visitor season begins again. It is one of Northumberland’s best-known attractions and regularly hosts themed entertainment and live demonstrations during spring and summer.

Visit Alnwick Castle

Northumbrian Pipes at Alnwick Castle – 27 to 29 March 2026

One of the first live experiences of the season is Northumbrian Pipes, running from 27 to 29 March. This is a good option for guests interested in local heritage, traditional music and Northumbrian culture during a stay in Alnwick.

See Alnwick Castle events

Company of Artisans – 30 March to 2 April 2026

From 30 March to 2 April, Alnwick Castle will host Company of Artisans, bringing medieval craftsmanship and historic demonstrations into the visitor experience. This is likely to appeal to families as well as visitors who enjoy history brought to life.

View the official Castle event listing

Spring Wreath Making at Alnwick Castle – 31 March 2026

Also worth noting is the Spring Wreath Making workshop on 31 March, offering something a little different for guests looking for a seasonal activity during a short break in Alnwick.

Check Castle workshop details

What’s on in Alnwick in April 2026

Raphael Historic Falconry at Alnwick Castle – 3 to 7 April 2026

Running from 3 to 7 April, Raphael Historic Falconry is one of the standout family-friendly attractions on the spring calendar. Live falconry displays are always popular and pair well with a day at the Castle.

See Alnwick Castle falconry dates

Alnwick Duck Race at The Alnwick Garden – 4 April 2026

The Alnwick Duck Race takes place on 4 April 2026 at The Alnwick Garden and is one of the most fun family events on the local calendar. For visitors staying in town over the Easter period, this is one of the clearest dates to keep in mind.

See The Alnwick Garden events calendar

Growing Together Northumberland event – 8 April 2026

The Alnwick Garden also has a community-focused event listed for 8 April in partnership with Growing Together Northumberland. It is another good example of how the Garden’s programme goes beyond standard day entry and includes themed seasonal experiences.

Check current Garden listings

Evening Lecture and Exclusive Poison Garden Tour – 15 April 2026

For adults looking for something a little different, The Alnwick Garden has an Evening Lecture and Exclusive Poison Garden Tour on 15 April. This is an especially good option for couples visiting Alnwick midweek and wanting a more distinctive local experience.

View official Poison Garden event details

Women in Rock at Alnwick Playhouse – 16 April 2026

If you enjoy live entertainment, Women in Rock comes to Alnwick Playhouse on 16 April. The Playhouse is a very useful venue for visitors because it offers an easy evening out right in the town.

View Women in Rock at Alnwick Playhouse

Toyah – An Evening With – 17 April 2026

On 17 April, Toyah – An Evening With is scheduled at Alnwick Playhouse. For guests staying locally, evenings like this can work very well as part of a one- or two-night break in Alnwick.

View Toyah at Alnwick Playhouse

Alnwick Spring Show – 18 April 2026

Alnwick Spring Show is listed by Alnwick Town Council for 18 April 2026. This is a useful event to include because it is clearly tied to the town itself and helps visitors feel they are arriving during a genuine local occasion rather than only visiting headline attractions.

See Alnwick Town Council events

Legends of American Country Show – 21 April 2026

Another date for the diary at Alnwick Playhouse is the Legends of American Country Show on 21 April, offering a simple evening entertainment option for music fans staying in Alnwick.

View Legends of American Country Show

Photography mornings at The Alnwick Garden – 23 and 26 April 2026

Guests interested in photography, gardens or seasonal colour may also want to look at The Alnwick Garden’s special early access photography sessions on 23 and 26 April. These kinds of smaller events can make a short Alnwick break feel more memorable.

See Garden photography event details

Cherry blossom season at The Alnwick Garden – late April into early May

Although not a single-day event, cherry blossom season is one of the loveliest times to visit Alnwick. The Alnwick Garden’s cherry orchard typically blooms around late April into early May, making it an ideal time for a spring visit if you enjoy relaxed walks, photography and seasonal colour.

What’s on near Alnwick in May 2026

Amble Puffin Festival – 23 to 24 May 2026

If you are happy to venture a little beyond Alnwick itself, the Amble Puffin Festival on 23 and 24 May is one of the best wider Northumberland events to mention. Amble is an easy coastal trip from Alnwick and the festival usually combines nature, family activities, local character and the area’s well-known puffin connection.

Visit the Amble Puffin Festival website

Northumberland County Show – 23 May 2026

Also on 23 May 2026, the Northumberland County Show is another major regional draw. This is more of a full day out than a short town-centre event, but it suits guests who enjoy agricultural shows, local food, demonstrations and family entertainment while exploring Northumberland.

Visit the Northumberland County Show website

What’s on near Alnwick in June 2026

Mighty Dub Fest – 19 to 21 June 2026

Mighty Dub Fest returns to Alnwick Castle Pastures from 19 to 21 June 2026. Although it is best known for the VW and vanlife community, it has become one of the area’s best-known early summer festival weekends and attracts visitors from well beyond Northumberland.

Visit Mighty Dub Fest

Planning your visit to Alnwick

Now that you know what’s on in Alnwick this spring and early summer, it is worth booking attractions, restaurants and accommodation in advance where possible, especially around Easter, bank holidays and the most popular weekend dates.

For more ideas while you are in town, you may also find these guides useful:

We will keep this guide updated as more events are announced throughout 2026.