Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England; it has been home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for over 700 years.

About Alnwick Castle

The castle’s rich history is brimming with drama, intrigue, and extraordinary people; from a gunpower plotter and visionary collectors, to decadent hosts and medieval England’s most celebrated knight, Harry Hotspur.

Combining magnificent medieval architecture with spectacular Italianate State Rooms, Alnwick Castle is one of the UK’s most significant heritage destinations.

In recent years it has also taken starring roles in a number of film and television productions, featuring as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films and as a location for ITV’s Downton Abbey.

Conveniently situated less than a mile off the A1 between Newcastle and Edinburgh, Alnwick Castle is an ideal destination for group visits.

To book a visit, or for any further information, please contact our group bookings team
groups@alnwickcastle.com or 01665 511 137
 

Group Benefits

Groups of 14 or more people receive the following benefits:
 
Discounted admission
Easy drop-off and free parking
Free admission for driver and group leader
Free tea/coffee and biscuits for driver and group leader
Range of bookable tours and activities
Specialist tours available on request
 
We are very happy to discuss rates for regular visits and welcome enquiries about bespoke visits.

Bookable tours and activities

We advise you to check whether a tour is available, particularly during peak times of our season such as school holidays before advertising your group visits.

State Rooms Tour
Join a guide for a tour around the State Rooms, home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Hear about the incredible art collection, including works by Canaletto, Titian and Van Dyck, the beautiful interiors, and stories from Alnwick Castle's past. Tour lasts approx. 50 minutes (max. 20 people per tour).
 
‘Alnwick on Location’ Tour
Join a guide for a journey around the Castle grounds, exploring the areas which have appeared on the big and small screen. Hear behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and visit the locations used in features such as Harry Potter, Downtown Abbey, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and more. Tour lasts approx. 45 minutes (max. 50 people per tour).
 
Historical Grounds Tour
Join a guide for a tour around the and learn about the long and eventful history of Alnwick Castle, through its journey from a medieval fortress to a ducal residence, hearing about some of its famous events and former residents. Tour lasts approx. 50 minutes (max. 50 people per tour).
 
History and Hollywood Tour - Exclusively for Group Bookings
Join a guide for a journey around the castle grounds, and learn about the eventful history of Alnwick Castle, through its journey from a medieval fortress to a ducal residence, whilst also hearing about where those locations have appeared on screen, from Harry Potter to Downtown Abbey to Dungeons and Dragons. Tour lasts approx. 50 minutes (max. 50 people per tour).
 
Special Interest Tour
If your group would like to hear about a particular area of Alnwick Castle's history or collections, such as its medieval defences or its Italian-inspired art and architecture, we can provide tours to suit your interests. Please get in touch to discuss options and details with us. Tours last approx. 50 minutes (max. 20 people per tour). 
 
Broomstick Training - Full Experience
Join our resident wizarding professors and take part in one of our world-famous broomstick training sessions. With their expert guidance, you shall be taught the basics of mastering ma broomstick, and how to get that perfect 'flying' photo. Session lasts approx. 30 minutes (max. 40 people per session).

Broomstick Training - Fundamentals
This compact version of our world-famous lesson is perfect from groups who want to experience the essentials of broomstick training. Our wizarding professors will be present throughout to help you get that all-important 'flying' photo. Session lasts approx. 15 minutes (max. 40 people per session).
 
Lessons in Wizardry - Exclusively for Group Bookings
Join a guide for a journey through the Castle grounds, exploring the areas made famous from the Harry Potter movies, including the location of his first flying lesson. Our wizarding professors will then show you  the basics of mastering a broomstick and how to get that 'perfect' flying photo. Session lasts approx. 45 minutes (max. 40 people per session).

Additional Information

If you would like further information regarding group visits or would like to make a reservation with us, please contact groups@alnwickcastle.com 

Please click on the links below to download information about group visits to Alnwick Castle: