Alnwick Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in England. Home of the Percy family for nearly 700 years and considered one of the finest castles in England, the home of the Duke of Northumberland, it has witnessed drama, intrigue, tragedy and romance. Combining magnificent medieval architecture with sumptuous Italianate State Rooms.  Alnwick Castle is one of the UK’s most significant heritage destinations and makes for a great day out in Northumberland. In recent years it has also taken starring roles in a number of film and television productions, featuring Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey and previously appearing as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films. The Fusiliers Museum housed in the castles 14th century Abbot’s Tower tells the story of an infantry regiment, the Fusiliers, and their unbroken record of service from 1674 to the present day and is well worth a visit.

The Alnwick Garden

Is one of the world’s most beautiful contemporary gardens in the country. From poisonous plants and treetop walkways, it was the brainchild of and created by the Duchess of Northumberland. The beautiful Cascade Waterfalls takes centre stage and was opened in 2001, plumes of water erupt from the pools at regular intervals and can catch the unassuming visitor out. The Rose Gardens and Ornamental Gardens were also opened in the same year. It is a modern garden combining sculpture, water features, and beautiful plants to create a wonderful family attraction. The Garden features the largest collection of European plants in the UK and the largest Japanese Cherry Orchard in the World. The Poison Garden was opened in 2005 and is filled exclusively with around 100 toxic, intoxicating, and narcotic plants. The boundaries of the Poison Garden are kept behind black iron gates. Visitors are strictly prohibited from smelling, touching, or tasting any plants, although some people still occasionally faint from inhaling toxic fumes while walking in the garden.

Please be aware that tickets for entry to the gardens must be purchased seperately. Entrance to the Castle does not include entry to the gardens.