Outdoor cinemas, theatre shows and book talks: what’s on at Alnwick Castle this summer

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If you’re on the lookout to visit somewhere a little more magical than a beer garden this summer, Alnwick Castle is pulling out all the stops.

This summer, Alnwick Castle has a full calendar of culture-packed events that’s got something for bookworms, theatre buffs and film fanatics.

Whether you’re visiting for a literary deep dive in Alnwick Castle’s Guest Hall or laying out a picnic under the stars for a feel-good film screening, you’ll be doing it all in one of the most iconic backdrops in the country.

Now, let’s take a look at what’s on at Alnwick Castle this summer…

BOOK TALKS IN ALNWICK CASTLE

This summer, Alnwick Castle’s ever-popular book talk series is back – and it’s bringing with it some of the UK’s most celebrated historians and cultural voices. These intimate evenings take place in the grand surroundings of Alnwick Castle’s Guest Hall, complete with opportunities for Q&As and book signings. 

Annie Gray: A History of the High Street

Friday 13th June from 7pm

From the kitchen to the cobbles, food historian Annie Gray brings British heritage to life through the lens of the high street. Her talk will take you on a journey through the local stories from bookshops to bakers.

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Alison Weir – The Cardinal

Wednesday 9th July from 7pm

A true favourite with Northumberland audiences, the UK’s bestselling historian Alison Weir returns to Alnwick Castle with The Cardinal: The Secret Life of Thomas Wolsey. Get insights into Tudor intrigue, courtly drama and the rise and fall of Henry VIII’s most trusted adviser.

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Alison Weir is a white woman with long brown hair. She smiles at the camera against a black background.

Tracy Borman – The Stolen Crown

Tuesday 23rd September from 7pm 

Tudor plot twists continue with historian and author Tracy Borman, who’ll be unpicking the secrets of The Stolen Crown: Treachery, Deceit and the Death of the Tudor Dynasty. If you thought you knew how Elizabeth I’s reign ended – think again…

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OUTDOOR THEATRE: SHAKESPEARE UNDER THE STARS

A Midsummer Night’s Dream by The Three-Inch Fools

Tuesday 22nd July from  7pm

The award-winning theatre troupe The Three-Inch Fools is known for putting a riotous, musical spin on Shakespeare’s classics – and this summer, they’re bringing A Midsummer Night’s Dream to life right in Alnwick Castle’s beautiful grounds.

It’s all outdoor, so, grab your blanket, pack up a picnic and prepare to be entertained. 

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OUTDOOR CINEMA: BLOCKBUSTERS BENEATH THE BATTLEMENTS

Fancy watching Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in the place it was filmed? This summer, Alnwick Castle is once again transforming into an unforgettable open-air cinema, teaming up with Adventure Cinema for four nights of movie magic.

Set against the dramatic Alnwick Castle silhouette, it’s perfect for a unique date night, family adventure or a girls’ night out.

The Greatest Showman plays on a big open-air screen in the grounds of Alnwick Castle. People sit in front of it on camping chairs.

The Greatest Showman Sing-Along (PG) 

Thursday 31st July from 6pm

Belt your heart out with Hugh Jackman and co. under the twilight sky.

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Mamma Mia! Outdoor Cinema ExtrABBAganza (12) 

Friday 1st August from 5.30pm

Because summer isn’t summer without a little ABBA. This has nearly sold out so book up fast! 

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Two women dressed in pink disco style dresses raise their hands in the air as they sing along to an ABBA song. Big white words next to them say: Mamma Mia!
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone plays on a big open-air screen in the grounds of Alnwick Castle. People sit in front of it on camping chairs.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (PG)

Saturday 2nd August from 5.30pm 

A spellbinding family night in an iconic film location.

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Pretty Woman (15) 

Sunday 3rd August from 6pm

Watch this Iconic ’90s romcom vibes with Julia and Richard, a perfect girls’ night out.

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BROWSE THE FULL SUMMER EVENTS LINE-UP

Alnwick Castle, Alnwick NE66 1NQ

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Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager

After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…

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