Lined with old stone buildings and cobbled streets, Alnwick’s town centre is very pretty and it is where visitors will find a variety of specialist shops and traditional coaching inns. At its heart is the marketplace, which holds many markets and events and is even decorated with its own market cross. The most popular events that take place in the town are the Food Festival and Beer Festival, which have helped to firmly plant Alnwick on the gastronomic map. Literature lovers will adore Barter Books, one of the UK’s largest second-hand bookshops, housed within an old railway station.
The River Aln
Alnwick’s most famous landmark and attraction has to be its castle, the second largest inhabited castle in the country. Many visitors may also recognise it as Hogwarts from the Harry Potter films. Home of the Dukes of Northumberland and the Percy family since 1309, Alnwick Castle is also surrounded by spectacular gardens decorated with water features, as well as the world’s largest treehouse in which you can even dine.
Even more history can be discovered at the Bailiffgate Museum, charting the history of Northumberland and the lives of the people who have lived there over the centuries. The House of Hardy Museum can also be found here, telling the story of House of Hardy, who manufacture some of the world’s finest fishing products, which can also be purchased at the adjoining Country Store. Many art galleries can also be found throughout the town, including The Gate Gallery and The Bakehouse Gallery, showcasing the talent of local artists and creators.
Being just 5 miles from the coast, there are many wonderful seaside towns and villages to be explored within easy reach of Alnwick. Alnmouth sits further down the river, characterised by its rows of colourful houses, and is surrounded by the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Further up the coast are some other great places to visit including Craster and Bamburgh.
“Alnwick’s most famous landmark and attraction has to be its castle, the second largest inhabited castle in the country…”
Alnwick boasts many excellent places to eat, whether you are seeking a light lunch or an enjoyable evening meal. While Sherkhan of Alnwick serves up plates of traditional and contemporary Indian food, Grannies is a bustling tearoom and delicatessen serving everything from sandwiches to ice cream. For even more information on what’s happening in the local area, head to the town’s Tourist Information Centre.
Our Alnwick cottages are perfect for exploring the town and the surrounding area. Why not view our collection for even more inspiration?