Alnwick (Local Guide)
Wondering what to see on your visit to Alnwick? Our local guide to Alnwick has you covered. Here are the top spots you shouldn’t miss:
- Alnwick Castle: Walk through 700 years of history and step into the world of Harry Potter
- Barter Books: Browse one of Europe’s largest second-hand bookshops in a Victorian railway station
- Alnwick Garden: Explore unique features like the Poison Garden and dine in a treehouse restaurant
- Northumberland Coast: Take a short trip to see stunning beaches and historic sites like Bamburgh Castle
- Hulne Park: Enjoy a peaceful walk and spot local wildlife in this expansive green space
Alnwick is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, book lover, or outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Let’s dive into what makes this Northumberland town so special.
Key Takeaways
- Alnwick Castle and Garden offers a unique mix of history, magic, and natural beauty.
- The town has a rich literary scene, including Barter Books, one of Europe’s largest second-hand bookshops.
- Alnwick is a great base for exploring Northumberland’s stunning coastline and countryside.
- Riverdale Hall Hotel provides a comfortable, friendly base for your Alnwick adventures.
Alnwick’s Landmarks
Alnwick Castle
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes).
Step into a world where history meets magic. Alnwick Castle lets you explore centuries of British history while indulging your inner wizard.
As you wander through Alnwick Castle, you’re walking in the footsteps of the Percy family, who’ve called this place home for over 700 years. The State Rooms are packed with impressive art, including works by Canaletto and Van Dyck. But it’s not all stuffy old paintings – Harry Potter fans will get a kick out of seeing Hogwarts in real life. You can even try your hand at broomstick training where Harry had his flying lessons.
Fun fact: Alnwick Castle is the second-largest inhabited castle in England, after Windsor Castle. It’s been in loads of films and TV shows, not just Harry Potter.
Alnwick Garden
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Experience a garden like no other–Alnwick Garden is a quirky mix of beautiful plants and unique attractions that’ll surprise and delight you.
The Duchess of Northumberland really let her imagination run wild when she created Alnwick Garden. You’ve got your typical English garden stuff like the Rose Garden and Cherry Orchard, which are pretty spectacular when in bloom. But then there’s the Poison Garden – a collection of deadly plants behind locked gates. It’s a bit creepy but in a fun way.Don’t miss out on eating at the Treehouse Restaurant in Alnwick Garden, as well. It’s one of the world’s largest wooden treehouses, complete with wobbly rope bridges and twinkling lights. The food’s good, too, with lots of local Northumbrian produce on the menu.
Alnwick Playhouse
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Step into the world of entertainment at Alnwick Playhouse. This beautifully restored Edwardian theatre is the cultural heart of Alnwick, offering a mix of live performances and cinema screenings that’ll keep you entertained, whatever the weather.
When you visit, you’ll be struck by the Playhouse’s charm. It’s got all the character of a historic theater, but with modern comforts. Catch a play, enjoy a concert, or watch the latest blockbuster in the cinema. The varied program means there’s always something new to see.
The Playhouse isn’t just a theatre – it’s also home to a gallery showcasing work by local artists. Pop in during the day to check out the latest exhibition, even if you’re not catching a show.
Alnwick Lions
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Fancy a treasure hunt with a twist? The Alnwick Lions are scattered throughout the town, waiting to be discovered. These decorated lion statues make for a fun, free activity that’ll take you to all corners of Alnwick.
As you explore the town, keep your eyes peeled for these colorful characters. Each lion has its own unique design, often reflecting local history or landmarks. It’s a great way to see the town, especially if you’re visiting with kids.
The Alnwick Lions were inspired by similar public art projects in other cities. But unlike many temporary installations, these lions are here to stay. Local businesses sponsored each lion, helping to create a lasting attraction for the town.
Alnwick’s Literary Side
Alnwick Library and Information Centre
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Dive into local culture and history at Alnwick Library. This modern library is more than just a place to borrow books – it’s a community hub that offers a window into Alnwick’s rich past and vibrant present.
When you visit, head straight for the local history section. It’s a treasure trove of information about Alnwick and Northumberland, perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting to dig deeper into the area’s heritage. The library also hosts regular events, from author talks to children’s storytimes, so check their schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
The library is housed in a former school building from 1825. The renovation project that turned it into a library won an award for its sensitive restoration of a historic building. So, while enjoying the modern facilities, you’re also stepping into a piece of Alnwick’s past.
Barter Books
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Stepping into Barter Books is like entering another world. This old Victorian railway station is now home to one of Europe’s largest second-hand bookshops. Look up, and you’ll see a model railway chugging along above the bookshelves. Whether you’re after a rare first edition or just a good paperback for your holiday, you’ll find something here.
Barter Books is famous for bringing back the “Keep Calm and Carry On” poster. When you need a break from book hunting, grab a cuppa in the Station Buffet café. Its open fire makes it the perfect spot to curl up with your new books.
Bailiffgate Museum
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Housed in an old church, Bailiffgate Museum packs 10,000 years of local history into its exhibitions. You’ll learn about the Percy family (yes, them again), Alnwick’s industrial past, and what happened here during the wars. It’s not just looking at old stuff behind glass – there are lots of hands-on exhibits that bring history to life.
The museum often has special exhibitions about different aspects of local life. So even if you’ve been before, there’s usually something new to see.
Walking and Exploring in and around Alnwick
Northumberland National Park
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 0 miles (Riverdale Hall Hotel is located within the park)
Escape to the great outdoors in Northumberland National Park. This vast expanse of unspoiled wilderness is right on your doorstep when you stay at Riverdale Hall Hotel, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature.
When you visit, you’ll be treated to some of England’s most breathtaking landscapes. Hike along ancient Roman routes, cycle through dense forests, or simply find a quiet spot to picnic and take in the views. The park is home to rare wildlife, including red squirrels and wild goats, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore.
Here’s something special: Northumberland National Park is home to Europe’s largest area of protected night sky. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. The park often hosts stargazing events, allowing you to see the universe in a new light.
Hulne Park
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles (60 minutes)
Escape the hustle and bustle. Hulne Park is a peaceful spot where you can stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air.
Hulne Park is a great place for a walk or a bike ride. It’s nice and quiet, so you might spot some local wildlife if you’re lucky. The paths are well-maintained, making it easy to explore even if you’re not an experienced hiker.
While you’re there, check out Hulne Priory. This 13th-century monastery is pretty impressive, especially considering how old it is. It’s a good spot for photos, too.
Coastal Walking
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel to Bamburgh Castle: 45 miles (1 hour) Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel to Holy Island: 60 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)
See some of the UK’s best coastline. The Northumberland coast offers stunning views, historic sites, and the chance to spot some interesting wildlife.
Bamburgh Castle is a must-see. It sits right on the edge of the sea and looks like something out of a fairy tale. If you’re up for an adventure, head to Holy Island (also called Lindisfarne). Just make sure you check the tide times – you don’t want to get stuck!
For a more relaxed day out, try the beaches at Alnmouth or Craster. They’re great for a picnic or a paddle. If you’re lucky, you might spot seals, puffins, or even dolphins from the shore.
Shops and Markets: Alnwick Market
Distance from Riverdale Hall Hotel: 30 miles.
Why visit: Get a taste of local life. Alnwick Market is where you’ll find fresh local produce and handmade crafts.
Market Street is the main shopping area in Alnwick. On Thursdays and Saturdays, the Market Square comes alive with local traders selling their wares. It’s a great place to pick up some local specialities or unique souvenirs.
Keep an eye out for special themed markets too. They pop up throughout the year and often feature seasonal goods.
Eat and Stay in Alnwick
Special Dining Experiences
The Dirty Bottles and The Potted Lobster are 30 miles from Riverdale Hall Hotel (around an hour).
Why visit: Treat your taste buds. Alnwick has some great places to eat, whether you’re after pub grub or fresh seafood.
The Dirty Bottles is a cool old pub with a modern twist. They serve classic British dishes but with a bit of flair. The building itself has an interesting history – ask the staff about it; they love a good chat.If you’re a seafood fan, don’t miss The Potted Lobster. They serve fresh fish from nearby Amble and Seahouses. Their lobster is pretty famous, but even their fish and chips are a cut above.
Stay at Riverdale Hall Hotel
Why stay: Make yourself at home. Riverdale Hall Hotel is a friendly, comfortable base for exploring Alnwick and Northumberland.
Our Victorian mansion sits on the banks of the North Tyne River near Bellingham. We’ve got 28 rooms, each with its own character. After a day out exploring, you can take a dip in our indoor pool or relax in the sauna.
We’re proud of our award-winning restaurant. If you’re feeling energetic, you can try fishing in our river or have a game of cricket on our grounds. We’re all about making you feel welcome and relaxed.
Your Northumberland Hub Awaits!
Riverdale Hall Hotel is your home away from home for exploring Alnwick and Northumberland. We’re about 60 minutes away, right on the banks of the lovely North Tyne River. After a day out, unwind in one of our cosy rooms, enjoy a tasty meal in our restaurant, and make use of our relaxing facilities.Call 01434 220254 or book here. We’ll help you plan your stay and make your visit to Northumberland one to cherish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alnwick Town worth visiting?
Absolutely! Alnwick has a great mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the castle and gardens to the bookshops and coastal walks, there’s something for everyone.
How long do you spend in Alnwick?
We’d recommend 2-3 days. This gives you enough time to see the main attractions in town and take a trip to the coast. Of course, you could easily spend longer if you want to explore more of Northumberland.
What day is Alnwick market on?
Alnwick’s market days are Thursdays and Saturdays. This is when the Market Square really comes to life, with local farmers and traders selling their goods.
How many hours are needed for Alnwick Castle?
Plan for at least 3-4 hours at Alnwick Castle. This gives you time to explore the State Rooms, enjoy the gardens, and maybe even join in on some Harry Potter-themed activities. If you’re really into history or gardens, you might want to spend a whole day there.