From Downton Abbey to Harry Potter and Transformers – Behind the scenes of film sets at Alnwick Castle

Ever dreamed of strolling where Hollywood stars once roamed? Well, at Alnwick Castle, your dream can become a reality.

This historic gem isn’t just a monument of Northumberland’s past; it’s also a superstar backdrop in the world of film and television

Picture yourself wandering through the halls where Lady Mary Crawley strutted her stuff in Downton Abbey or where Harry Potter conjured his first spells. It’s like stepping right into a film set. And let’s not forget the backdrop of epic battles of Transformers: The Last Knight.

From playing Hogwarts in the early Harry Potter films to standing in as the grand Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey’s holiday specials, this place has seen it all.

Now, imagine capturing all these iconic moments for your Instagram feed. Trust us the backdrop here is unbeatable for those envy-inducing snaps.

Ready to explore? Dive deeper into these cinematic wonders with the ‘Alnwick On Location’ Tour that’s free with your entry ticket and hear behind-the-scenes secrets with an entertaining and knowledgeable guide.

Book your tickets online today and go on a star-studded adventure.

HARRY POTTER – HOGWARTS

It’s known to many Hogwarts fans across the world that Alnwick Castle had its moment of magic as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. Back in 2001 and 2002, it was the backdrop for all that Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

The Outer Bailey

Remember when Harry and the gang were learning to ride broomsticks with Madam Hooch? That was set in the Outer Bailey.

HLN TOP TIP: Did you know you can take part in your very own broomstick training at Alnwick Castle on a broomstick, perhaps a Nimbus 2000?

The Courtyards and Baileys

And who can forget the chaos when Harry and Ron crashed the Weasley family’s flying car into a Whomping Willow? That was filmed in the courtyards and baileys at Alnwick Castle.

The Lion Arch

Oh, and speaking of iconic spots, you have to visit the Lion Arch. It’s that magical gateway to Hogwarts, leading to Hagrid’s cabin and the Forbidden Forest. Imagine strolling through there like you’re on your way to meet Buckbeak.

DOWNTON ABBEY

Did you catch Alnwick Castle’s cameo in Downton Abbey? It played the role of the glorious Brancaster Castle in not just one, but two of the show’s Christmas specials.

And get this – Alnwick Castle hardly ever lets cameras inside their State Rooms to keep the Percy family’s privacy intact. But when it came to Downton Abbey, they just couldn’t resist as it’s such a perfect fit for such an iconic TV series.

A Moorland Holiday

The Crawley family heads to Brancaster Castle for a shooting party in 1924. But hold onto your hats because scandalous secrets and new faces shake things up big time. And guess where they filmed all those juicy scenes? Yep, right at Alnwick Castle, both inside the spectacular State Rooms and out in the stunning grounds.

The Finale

Fast forward to the series finale. In July 2015, the Downton crew returned to Alnwick Castle. This time, it was all about Lady Edith and her beau Bertie Pelham, now Lord Hexham. The castle’s State Rooms, ramparts and even nearby spots like Bow Alley and St Michael’s Church Hall set the stage for the dramatic conclusion of Edith’s romantic saga.

TRANSFORMERS

Did you hear about Transformers invading the North East? Transformers: The Last Knight was filmed at Alnwick Castle back in September 2016.

And guess who showed up to play in the castle grounds? None other than Hollywood stars Mark Wahlberg and Sir Anthony Hopkins alongside some seriously cool rides like Bumblebee and Hot Rod.

Locations

And Alnwick Castle played a starring role, with scenes filmed all in several locations – from the Library to the Inner Bailey, and even the Lion Bridge and Bowburn just outside the castle walls.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, NE66 1NQ

• Share: