Alnwick Castle is a medieval castle located in Alnwick, Northumberland, England. It has been the home of the Percy family since the 14th century and is now owned by the 12th Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. The castle is a popular tourist destination and has featured in several films, most notably the Harry Potter movies.
History
The castle was built in 1096 by Yves de Vescy, the first Baron of Alnwick. It has been the home of the Percy family since 1309, when Henry de Percy purchased it from the de Vescy family. The castle has seen many battles and sieges over the centuries, with the most famous being the Battle of Alnwick in 1405, in which Henry IV defeated the Scots.
Attractions
Alnwick Castle is a popular tourist destination with many attractions to explore. The castle is filled with medieval architecture, including a great hall, a chapel, and a library. There are also many gardens and parks to explore, including the Poison Garden, which contains a variety of poisonous plants. The castle also houses the Alnwick Castle Collection, a collection of art and artifacts from the castle’s history.
Tours
The castle offers a variety of guided tours, including the Grand Tour, which takes visitors through the castle’s history and architecture. There are also special tours for children, such as the Harry Potter Tour, which takes visitors through the locations used in the Harry Potter films.
Things to Do
Alnwick Castle is a great place to explore and there are plenty of things to do. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, such as archery, falconry, and sword fighting. The castle also hosts a range of events throughout the year, such as the Alnwick Garden Festival and the Alnwick Castle Joust.
Family-Friendly
Alnwick Castle is a great place for families to visit. It is a safe and secure environment, with plenty of activities and attractions for children of all ages. The castle also offers a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, such as the Alnwick Castle Summer Festival.
Film Location
Alnwick Castle has been used as a filming location for a number of films and television shows, most notably the Harry Potter movies. The castle was used as the location for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and many of the scenes were filmed on the castle grounds.
Practical Information
Alnwick Castle is open to the public from April to October. Admission is £14.50 for adults, £7.50 for children, and £40 for a family ticket. There is also a variety of parking options available.
Tips for Tourists
When visiting Alnwick Castle, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds are quite large. It is also a good idea to bring a camera, as there are many beautiful sights to capture. Finally, be sure to bring a picnic, as there are plenty of places to enjoy a meal in the castle grounds.
