Group Visits
Enjoy an unforgettable group visit to Alnwick Castle, one of the UK’s most iconic and historic castles. Set in the heart of Northumberland, the Castle offers the perfect destination for groups of all sizes, combining magnificent medieval architecture, centuries of fascinating stories and the impressive Italianate State Rooms to create a memorable experience for every visitor.
Open from March to October, Alnwick Castle offers a range of engaging tours, activities and experiences designed to make the most of your group visit.
For more information or to discuss your requirements, please contact our Group Bookings team:
groups@alnwickcastle.com | 01665 511 137
Planning a school or education visit? Find out more here.
To begin arranging your group visit to Alnwick Castle, please complete the enquiry form below.
Group Benefits
Whether you’re looking to add to a coach trip itinerary, or simply gather friends and family for a great day out, booking a group visit to Alnwick Castle brings a host of benefits.
We offer groups of 14 or more people:
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Discounted admission
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Easy drop-off and free parking
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Free admission for driver and group leader
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Free tea/coffee and biscuits for driver and group leader
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A range of bookable tours and activities
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Specialist tours available on request
We are also very happy to discuss rates for regular or bespoke visits.
Things to do at Alnwick Castle
We offer a wide range of bookable tours and activities designed to help you create a memorable and engaging itinerary for your group visit.
Alnwick Castle is the perfect half-day or full-day Northumberland attraction for coach groups, offering convenient coach parking, flexible tour options and exclusive experiences that bring the castle’s history, heritage and stories to life.
For larger groups, we recommend checking availability and making your booking in advance before promoting your Alnwick Castle visit. Early planning is especially important during peak periods, including school holidays, when demand is highest.
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State Rooms Tour
Join a guide for a tour around the State Rooms, home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Learn about the beautiful interiors, hear stories about Alnwick Castle’s past, and see work from artists including Canaletto, Titian, and Van Dyck.
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The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 20 people per tour.
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'Alnwick on Location' Tour
Our guide will show you around the castle grounds to see the areas that have appeared onscreen.
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.
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The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 50 people per tour.
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Historical Grounds Tour
This tour walks you through Alnwick Castle’s long and eventful history. Learn about its journey from a medieval fortress to a ducal residence and hear about some of its famous events and former residents.
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The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 50 people per tour.
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History and Hollywood Tour (exclusively for group bookings)
Our History and Hollywood tour is designed exclusively for group bookings. We’ll take you on
a journey around the castle grounds as you learn about the castle’s history and its onscreen appearances — from Harry Potter to Downtown Abbey to Dungeons and Dragons.
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The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 50 people per tour.
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Special Interest Tour
Would your group like to learn about a particular area of Alnwick Castle's history or collections? Whether it’s the castle’s medieval defences or its Italian-inspired art and architecture, we can provide tours to suit your interests.
Please get in touch to discuss how we can curate a tour your group will love.
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The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 20 people per tour.
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Broomstick Training
Choose from two popular options to add a magical activity to your itinerary:
Full Experience
Train with our wizarding professors and learn the basics of broomstick mastery, including how to capture the perfect “flying” photo.
Duration: ~30 minutes
Capacity: Up to 40 people per sessionFundamentals
A shorter lesson covering the essentials of broomstick training, with professors on hand to help you get that must-have “flying” photo.
Duration: ~15 minutes
Capacity: Up to 40 people per session -
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Lessons in Wizardry (exclusively for group bookings)
This group booking exclusive combines a Broomstick lesson with a journey through the Alnwick Castle grounds, exploring the areas made famous from the Harry Potter movies — including the location of his first flying lesson.
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The session lasts approximately 45 minutes.
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Book for a maximum of 40 people per session.
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Half-Day Self-Guided Experience
Make the most of your time at Alnwick Castle with a flexible self-guided visit, allowing your group to explore at their own pace.
Arrival and welcome
Arrive at Alnwick Castle, with convenient coach access and time to gather your group before beginning your visit.
Explore the Castle Grounds
Discover over 950 years of history as you wander through the Castle courtyards, exhibitions and outdoor spaces. Visit the museums and exhibitions to learn about the Percy family and Alnwick Castle’s role in Northumberland’s history.
Enjoy refreshments
Take a break in one of our catering areas and relax before continuing your visit.
Free time to explore
Visit the State Rooms and the Great Kitchen, allowing time for photography, shopping and enjoying the atmosphere of this iconic Northumberland landmark before departure.
Recommended duration: 2–3 hours
Full-Day Guided Tours and Experiences
Create a memorable full-day group experience with a combination of guided tours, activities and time to explore. Each visit can be tailored to your groups needs.
Arrival and welcome
Begin your visit with a warm welcome and introduction to Alnwick Castle, with coach drop-off and parking available.
Bookable guided tour
Bring the Castle’s history to life with an expert-led tour, uncovering fascinating stories of the Percy family, medieval life and the people who shaped Alnwick’s past.
Time for lunch and refreshments
Enjoy a relaxed break with one of our group catering packages before continuing your afternoon activities.
Choose an additional experience
Enhance your visit with one of our bookable tours or activities, offering your group a deeper insight into the Castle’s history, architecture and famous connections or take part in a group archery or broomstick lesson.
Free time to explore
Allow time for your group to revisit favourite areas, take photographs and enjoy the castle at their own pace before departure.
Recommended duration: 4–5 hours
Catering Packages
Alnwick Castle offers a diverse range of food options to suit every taste, from freshly prepared hot and cold buffet selections to delicious baked treats. Guests can enjoy cream teas, afternoon teas, and a variety of light refreshments throughout their visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed sit-down meal or a quick snack, there is something for everyone. Please let a member of staff know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements, and we will be happy to assist.
Getting to Alnwick Castle
Conveniently situated less than a mile off the A1 between Newcastle and Edinburgh, Alnwick Castle is an ideal destination for group visits. You can get to us by car, train, or bus, and we’re close to the heart of Alnwick town, so there’s plenty more to explore in the local area.
We share coach parking facilities with The Alnwick Garden and groups can enjoy free parking for the duration of their visit. Convenient drop off points available.
Learn more about getting to Alnwick Castle.
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Get Directions
Find the best route for your group visit
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Opening Times
Opening times, seasonal dates and visitor information
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Accessibility
Plan an inclusive group visit
Been to a few castles up and down the country and this one is really impressive. Managed to get there in time for one of the free guided tours around the grounds. Very informative with a few chuckles thrown in.