Summer fun at Alnwick Castle – history, magic and family adventures await

Discover the Rich History

Alnwick Castle offers a variety of daily tours and talks that explore its rich and varied history. From attacks by Scottish kings and resident knights like Harry Hotspur to restorations in the Georgian and Victorian eras and appearances on the big screen, there’s always more to discover about Alnwick Castle.

Guided Tours

The friendly and knowledgeable guiding team provides daily tours included as part of your entry fee. Join a Historical Grounds tour to learn about the castle’s eventful journey from a medieval fortress to a ducal residence. The State Room tours take you around the home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, showcasing incredible art collections and beautiful interiors.

Alnwick on Location Tours

If you’re a film fanatic, join the Alnwick on Location tour. Explore the castle grounds that have featured in historical dramas, Shakespeare adaptations, and, most famously, the Harry Potter films. This 45-minute outdoor tour is free with your entry ticket and offers fascinating behind-the-scenes anecdotes – read more here.

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME

Alnwick Castle boasts over 950 years of history, with origins dating back to the Norman period. Since 1309, its story has been intertwined with that of the Percy family. The second largest inhabited castle in the UK, Alnwick Castle has served as a military outpost, a teaching college, a refuge for evacuees, a film set and a family home.

Within the iconic castle keep lie the beautifully decorated State Rooms. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, these rooms are filled with treasures and stories from Alnwick Castle’s history. Friendly guides are available in each room to answer your questions.

The Duke’s New Exhibition

A highlight of this summer’s calendar is the Lions of the Red Rose Exhibition inside the State Rooms. This captivating journey into the lives of the Percy family during the Wars of the Roses immerses you in their world through rare artefacts and gripping tales of battle and honour.

Medieval Craft Demonstrations

Take part in creating crafts from centuries gone by with the resident artisans. Each day features a different hands-on demonstration, from designing medieval tiles to soap making or even crafting a magic wand. This is a fun activity for all ages.

Costumes and Medieval Life Explored

Dress up in medieval costumes, play traditional games in the square and take your place on the throne of Hotspur Hall. Join the knowledgeable artisans to learn more about castle life hundreds of years ago, with daily talks ranging from medieval medicine and arms and armour to the art of medieval writing.

Dragon Quest

Are you brave enough to venture through the perils of Dragon Quest? Navigate the mirror maze, cross the fiery bridge and hold on tight at the whirlpool to see how many different dragons you can find.

Dragon Quest is open daily and free with admission – entry is via Artisans Courtyard. Your little ones will love this.