The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to Alnwick Castle in Northumberland – a Medieval castle steeped in history and mystery. Located on the banks of the River Aln, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Percy family, the most powerful northern family in England, for more than 700 years. Today, Alnwick Castle is still in the hands of the Percy family who manage the castle as a heritage attraction that brings history to life. Visitors can explore the grand state rooms, turrets and towers, and vast gardens. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the interesting facts and historical information about Alnwick Castle, as well as provide a useful travel guide for visitors. So, if you are hoping to visit Alnwick Castle, then read on to find out all you need to know.

Interesting Facts About The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

1. The Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England, and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK.

2. It has seen over 800 years of history and is the home of the Duke of Northumberland.

3. The castle was the feature of several Harry Potter films in the 2000s.

4. It is home to the world’s largest tapestry collection housed in the Picture Gallery.

5. The castle has 11 gardens that span over 6 acres.

6. It has a large number of state rooms and a treasury containing many priceless heirlooms.

7. It was used as a set for Elizabeth, starring Cate Blanchett.

8. The castle is also the setting of a popular four-day medieval festival.

9. The Alnwick Castle’s signature tree also featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

10. In 2014, the castle was the scene of the Battle of Alnwick, which was featured in the third season of the popular drama Game of Thrones.

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History & Information About The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Alnwick Castle is a castle in the town of Alnwick in Northumberland, England. The site has been the home of the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, since the 11th century. Alnwick Castle is one of the largest inhabited castles in England and it has been used as a historical tourist attraction for many years.

The castle is thought to have been established by Yves de Vescy, Baron of Alnwick, in either 1096 or 1098; he must have improved the earthwork defences, to which stone walls were later added. After the death of Yves in 1101, possession was granted to his son Eustace FitzJohn and passed down through the FitzJohn family until 1205 it went to the Pecys.

The castle has endured numerous sieges over the years but has been relatively unharmed since the Middle Ages. It was involved in the Second War of Scottish Independence when it was captured by the forces of Robert the Bruce in 1319-1320.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries the castle was owned by the Percys, who were one of the most powerful families in the country. During this time it was used for social occasions, large balls and celebrations.

In the present day, Alnwick Castle is owned by the Duke of Northumberland, who still lives in the castle. It is now open to the public, who can take tours around the grounds and see many of the features of the castle, including the interior gardens, armories, and the courtyards. The castle is also famous for its role in the Harry Potter films, which were filmed at various locations within the castle.

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Travel Guide For Visiting The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Alnwick Castle is an iconic fortress located in the town of Alnwick, in the county of Northumberland, England. The castle is a popular tourist attraction and has been featured in many television shows and movies, most notably in the Harry Potter films.

Getting There:

The nearest airport to Alnwick Castle is Newcastle International Airport, which is around 65 miles away. Alternatively, you can take the train from a variety of cities in England, including London, York, and Edinburgh to Alnwick Station, which is only a short walk away from the castle.

Where to Stay:

There are a number of hotels and bed & breakfasts located in Alnwick, so you can easily find accommodation close to the castle. Some of the popular and highly rated hotels in the town include The Battlesteads Hotel, The White Swan Hotel, and The Lion Hotel.

What to Do:

Apart from exploring the grounds of the castle, there are several activities and attractions located around the area. You can take a tour of the stunning garden and enjoy a show at the Alnwick Garden Theatre. Other popular activities in the area include exploring the Northumberland Coast Path, visiting local pubs and restaurants, visiting nearby villages such as Holy Island and Bamburgh, or even trying some birdwatching.

Tips:

-Make sure to dress in layers in case the weather is cold or windy.

-Bring waterproof clothing and equipment in case it rains.

-If you plan to stay for more than one day, you can take a day trip to nearby places such as Berwick, Hadrian’s Wall or Alnmouth.

-Visit on special events days for a unique experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Q: Where is Alnwick Castle located?
A: Alnwick Castle is located in the town of Alnwick, Northumberland, in the north east of England.

Q: Is Alnwick Castle open to the public?
A: Yes, Alnwick Castle is open to the public from 12:00PM to 5:00PM daily.

Q: How much does it cost to visit Alnwick Castle?
A: The entry fee for Alnwick Castle is £14.95 for adults and £9.95 for children (under 5s go free).

Q: How do I get to Alnwick Castle?
A: Alnwick Castle is easily accessible by car and public transport. There is a dedicated car park and the nearest train station is Alnmouth.

Q: Are there any other attractions at Alnwick Castle?
A: Yes, there is a beautiful garden, a well-stocked shop, a café and a restaurant.

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