Another season of fun and adventure has opened up behind the walls of the mystical Alnwick Castle, and it’s our job to make sure your visit is as engaging as possible.
If you’re looking for things to do in Northumberland, our new event programme is ready and raring to go for 2024.
One of the most beautiful things about visiting Alnwick Castle is that it welcomes everyone. Whether you’re a couple with a keen Northumberland history interest or a family looking for fun over the school holidays, there’s always something for you to see and do at Alnwick Castle. But where do you start?
The good-to-knows
Alnwick Castle is now open daily from the 29th March to the 24th October 2024. The main Castle Grounds are open from 10am – 5pm, with the last admissions at 3.45pm. However, in July and August, our grounds stay open until 5.30pm so you can make the most of the summer sun.
The castle itself is an adventure to be had. With this in mind, we have an array of areas to explore, each with its own opening times. Take a look at our Alnwick Castle opening times before you visit.
Getting to Alnwick Castle
You’ll find Alnwick Castle in the heart of Northumberland — tucked away in the quaint haven of Alnwick town, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are many ways to get to the castle to start your adventure.
By foot
If you’re lucky enough to live within walking distance of Alnwick Castle, simply follow the postcode NE66 ING to the Castle admission office, or NE66 IHB to the visitor entrance.
By road
Just under a mile off the A1, you’ll find the castle is well-signposted on the road. If you’re driving to the car park, follow directions to NE66 IYU. Please note that Alnwick Castle parking costs £3.50 for the day and we currently only accept card payment.
By rail
Travelling by train? Take the East Coast mainline from London to Edinburgh — just make sure you get off at Alnmouth Station. From there, you can take a taxi or the X18/X20 bus to us. If you’re taking a taxi, we’d recommend booking your journey in advance.
By bus
It’s only a five-minute walk from the castle to the bus station, with the X15, X18, and X20 running from Newcastle’s Haymarket bus station in the city centre.
Things to do and see at Alnwick Castle
Beyond the walls of Alnwick Castle, you’ll find new areas to explore with every twist and turn…
The Artisans Courtyard
For a journey back in time, head over to the Artisans Courtyard. Enjoy intriguing history talks, medieval crafts, and a chance to dress up in medieval costumes for traditional games in the square. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not claim your place on the throne in Hotspur Hall?
The Napoleonic Cannon
Our newest addition! You can find the Napoleonic Cannon on the Gun Terrace where we have frequent live firings. Why not end your visit to Alnwick Castle with an experience to remember?
The State Rooms
Experience the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland in the castle’s beautifully decorated State Rooms, filled with treasures and stories. Our friendly guides are on hand to answer any questions about the castle and its history.
The Museums
Alnwick Castle has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years, as well as two museums used to demonstrate the building’s history and evolution.
Gift shops and cafes
What would a visit to Alnwick Castle be without the chance to buy a souvenir and reflect on the day over tea and cake? Discover our cafes and gift shops, perfect for some retail therapy and a food and drink pit stop.
Don’t forget that Alnwick is a quaint fairytale town, featuring bookshop-lined streets and historic cobbled streets. It has so much to offer, making it the perfect weekend stay for all visitors.
What’s on?
Wondering about Alnwick Castle’s upcoming events? We have a whole programme of exciting activities and things to do for families, couples, and solo travellers in Northumberland.
Company of Artisans
Join the Company of Artisans, as they explore and demonstrate the role of an artisan in the Medieval and Tudor periods. Make a medieval tile, and learn about the properties of medieval soap.
Longbow Demonstrations
Master Archer, Andy Rice, is back once again to demonstrate the technique of a medieval English longbow. Catch one of his longbow demonstrations to hear about the strength and skill involved. If you stick around, you might get to hear about some gruesome tales of battles from long ago.
Tom Fool
The resident jester of Alnwick Castle, Tom Fool, is back for another season of merriment and silliness.
Silly History Boys
Enjoy fully interactive shows from the Silly History Boys, delving into the silliest (and most gory) parts of medieval history, including a brand-new play all about the Wars of the Roses.
For a full programme of our events, take a look at our What’s On page or the board when you arrive at Alnwick Castle.
Worried about wet weather? While we don’t offer a rainy day policy, please rest assured that tickets purchased on our website are automatically annual passes, meaning you can come back and visit us for free up to 12 months after your original visit date.
Facilities and accessibility at Alnwick Castle
The grounds of the castle include a variety of surfaces including cobblestones, flagstones, grass, gravel and wood. These can be uneven and steep in places. Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the castle, disabled access is limited in some areas.
However, there is partial access in the grounds for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and guide dogs. We also have a limited number of free motorised scooters for visitors to use. Pre-booking is essential, so please give us a call to reserve one.
Accompanying carers can visit Alnwick Castle for free, and we have several accessible toilets, too. Please see our accessibility page for more details.
Visit Alnwick Castle
We’re proud to be considered one of the best castles in Northumberland, and can’t wait for you to see what our historic site has to offer.
Book your tickets and
plan your visit to Alnwick Castle today.