WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
There is partial access in the grounds for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Please speak to a member of the team on arrival who will be happy to offer guidance on suitable routes.
ASSISTANCE DOGS
Guide, hearing and assistance dogs, including those in training, are welcome at Alnwick Castle. All dogs must be kept on a short lead during their visit.
If available, please bring your dog’s 'Assistance Dogs (UK)’ identification book (or the appropriate international equivalent) with you. Unfortunately, due to conservation concerns, we do not allow emotional support animals to enter the castle at this time.
MOTORISED SCOOTER HIRE
A limited number of free motorised scooters are available to visitors but pre-booking is essential. To reserve a scooter please call 01665 511 178 ahead of your visit. Motorised scooters are not permitted on the steps leading to the Gun Terrace.
ACCESSIBLE PARKING
Disabled parking is available on Castle square (NE66 1NG) and in the main car park on Denwick Lane at The Alnwick Garden.
ACCESSIBLE TOILETS
There is an accessible toilet located in the courtyard between the Courtyard Café and the Stables Fryery. Additional accessible toilets are located in the Pavilion at The Alnwick Garden
CARERS
For disabled visitors who require the assistance of a carer, the accompanying carer can enter the castle and its grounds free of charge. Please contact us prior to visiting if you require additional information regarding access and facilities.
Carers will be asked to provide proof of carer status upon arrival showing that they are recognised as a carer for the accompanying visitor. Examples of proof you could bring are:
- A letter from the local authority of the carer confirming that they are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, or are in some other way recognised as a carer by the local authority
- A letter from a GP confirming that the carer has registered with them as a carer
- A registered carer card provided as part of another scheme (e.g. CredAbility Access Card, CEA Card, etc)
GETTING AROUND
The State Rooms have stepped access (3 steps in total, with no handrail) to the entrance and from there to access a one-person lift (4 steps with a handrail) to bypass the Grand Staircase and access the State Rooms and exhibition space on the first floor. The lift does not accommodate a wheelchair, however there is a seat for your comfort if required. Aside from the entrance room and the Grand Staircase, all State Rooms are located on the 1st floor.
Visitors who are less able or who use a wheelchair can exit the State Rooms by returning to the lift after the exhibition room to avoid the back stairs at the exit.
We unfortunately do not have any ramps for access for motorised mobility scooters or wheelchairs into the State Rooms. Mobility scooters can be left at the entrance and wheelchairs provided within the State Rooms where possible.
The courtyard which contains the Castle Shop and Courtyard Café is cobbled. The Castle Shop and Courtyard Café are accessible for wheelchairs and this area also has a dedicated accessible toilet. We recommend that mobility scooters are left in the courtyard when using these areas wherever possible due to limited space in the corridors for manoeuvring.
FIRST AID
All of our supervisors and many of our staff are first aid trained. Should you require assistance please ask any member of staff; there is always a trained supervisor on duty in each department.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
All of our staff have radios and in an emergency please contact a member of staff.
SMOKING POLICY
We have a no smoking policy across the Castle site, including e-cigarettes.
BAG SEARCHING POLICY
Visitors are respectfully informed that enhanced security measures are in place and you are requested to bring the minimum of bags during your visit. Please note that random bag searches may take place. Your kind cooperation with these procedures, which have been implemented for the benefit and security of visitors and staff alike, is much appreciated.