Alnwick Castle
Medieval fortress and aristocratic mansion known to many as Hogwarts.
Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Charged parking
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Easily accessible without car
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Facilities for children
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Good journey mark
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Parkland / open spaces
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Picnic area
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Shop
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
- Accessible toilets
The origins of Alnwick Castle date back to the Norman period. Since 1309 its story has been intertwined with that of the Percy family, a family with a history as illustrious as the Castle’s own.
The exterior medieval castle is one of the finest in Britain – it was restored by Anthony Salvin in the mid-19th century. The interior includes lavish state rooms filled with excellent collection of Italian old masters and sculpture. The Castle is set in a wonderful park landscaped by Capability Brown.
The second largest inhabited castle in the UK, Alnwick has served as a military outpost, a teaching college, a refuge for evacuees, a film set, and not least as a family home. Delve deeper into this extraordinary history and travel through the centuries of this living, evolving castle.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Opening Times
General Opening Hours
Alnwick Castle operates a seasonal open season. The castle is open 10am – 5pm daily from 15 September to 20 October 2026. Please note that on 20 October, closing time is 4pm. The castle closes from 21 October onwards.
Tickets are valid for 12 months with unlimited return visits during the open season.
Areas & Attractions
Castle Grounds
Open 10am – 5pm daily. Last entry: 3:45pm.
State Rooms
Open 10:30am – 4:30pm daily. Last entry: 4pm.
Great Kitchen
Open 10:30am – 4:45pm daily. This area opened to visitors for the very first time in 2025.
Fusiliers of Northumberland Museum
Open 11am – 5pm daily. Last entry: 4:30pm.
Postern Tower & Constable's Tower
Open 10am – 5pm daily.
Artisans Courtyard & Dragon Quest
Open 10am – 5pm daily.
Daily Activities & Entertainment
The following activities are available daily during the open season. Times may vary, so please consult the on-site What's On boards for full details:
- Falconry displays
- Jesters and entertainment
- Medieval music
- Medieval crafts
- Broomstick training (time-slot tickets required)
- Have-a-Go archery
- Guided tours around the grounds (free)
Current Exhibition
The Shot Heard Round the World: Earl Percy and the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783)
A new exhibition exploring the connection between Alnwick Castle and the American Revolutionary War.
Special Events 2026
- Northumbrian Piping Weekend – 19–20 September
- Food History! An Evening of Food History with Ivan Day – 25 September at 6:00pm
- BANG! Newcastle Garrison Demonstrations – 3–4 October with hourly firings from 11:00am
The castle's events programme changes throughout the year with seasonal attractions. For the latest information on events and activities, please check the on-site What's On boards during your visit.
| On the website | At the gate | ||
| Adult 17 years + | £21.55 | Adult 17 years + | £23.95 |
| Concession 60+ or full-time student | £17.55 | Concession 60+ or full-time student | £19.50 |
| Child 5-16 years | £11.35 | Child 5-16 years | £12.65 |
| Child 0-4 years | Free | Child 0-4 years | Free |
| Family 2 adults & up to 4 children | £62.95 | Family 2 adults & up to 4 children | £69.95 |
| Family 1 adult & up to 4 children | £42.25 | Family 1 adult & up to 4 children | £46.95 |
Historic Houses members are entitled to free admission. There is no need to pre-book, please bring your valid membership card to show at the gate on arrival. If members would prefer to prebook, they can call our admin office on 01665 511 100 or email [email protected]
Combining magnificent medieval architecture with spectacular Italianate State Rooms, Alnwick Castle is one of the UK’s most significant heritage destinations. Alnwick Castle is an ideal destination for group visits.
To book a visit, or for any further information, please contact our group bookings team:
01665 511 184
We have produced a menu of workshops designed to appeal to a range of age groups and Key Stages, ensuring that Early Years and Reception classes, as well as older years, enjoy equally accessible workshops.
The sessions are led by our costumed characters who take on the personas of wizards, knights, poor peasants, hapless medieval alchemists, chroniclers, and spies.
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
- Accessible toilets
Getting here
Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ
Alnwick Castle is less than a mile off the A1 and is well signposted. The main castle car park is just off Denwick Lane (B1340).
The East Coast mainline from London to Edinburgh stops at Alnmouth station, which is four miles from Alnwick. A taxi or bus (X18) can be taken from Alnmouth station (a journey of approximately 10 minutes).
Find the exact address on what3words:
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