Things to See & Do in Alnwick
Whether you’re making a visit to Alnwick for the day or enjoying a relaxing weekend break, there are plenty of things to see and do for kids and adults in this beautiful part of Northumberland. There are also many beautiful places to visit near Alnwick, especially for a scenic walk or a spot for lunch.
If you’re wondering what to do in Alnwick during your stay, we hope this guide provides plenty of inspiration for you to book your visit.
The best things to do in Alnwick
Alnwick Town has a little bit of everything, from the magic of Alnwick Castle to quaint cobbled streets. A visit to our iconic castle is a must, offering visitors a chance to step back in time with its beautiful style and impressive architecture.
The nearby Alnwick Garden is also great for a peaceful walk or a fun day out with the family. Don’t miss out on its enchanting fountains and mesmerising seasonal displays!
For book lovers, a trip to Barter Books (one of the largest second-hand bookshops in the UK) is a dream. Housed in a former railway station, it’s the perfect spot to browse books, sip a coffee, and soak in the cosy atmosphere.
Free things to do in Alnwick
Roaming Alnwick’s picturesque streets with its historic market square and charming independent shops is a joy in itself. The best part? It’s completely free, of course.
For nature lovers, Hulne Park has beautiful walking trails and breathtaking views. This peaceful Northumberland location is ideal for stretching your legs and immersing yourself in the quaint Northumberland countryside.
Another great spot is The Tenantry Column, which stands proudly at the town's entrance. It’s a fab photo opportunity and offers a glimpse into Alnwick’s fascinating history.
Unusual things to do in Alnwick
Fancy something a little different for your stay in Alnwick?
Visit The Poison Garden within The Alnwick Garden — you won’t be disappointed. This quirky and slightly eerie attraction is home to some of the world’s most dangerous plants. They offer daily guided tours if you dare to enter. Just be extra careful not to touch the 100 species of toxic, intoxicating, and narcotic plants.
Another unique experience is visiting the Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery, where you can learn about 10,000 years worth of Alnwick’s local history, art, and culture. This museum also won the 2021 Family-Friendly Museum award.
Things to do with kids in Alnwick
Families, little ones, and not-so-little ones will love our Artisans Courtyard and Dragon Quest right here at Alnwick Castle.
Enjoy arts and crafts, dress up in medieval costumes, and on select days, watch our in-house Jester, Tom Fool, entertain the kids with traditional games and mischief. In Dragon Quest, they can begin an immersive adventure through mythical landscapes to see how many dragons they can hunt.
For more outdoor fun, Lilidorei offers an exciting and magical experience with thrilling slides and secret hideouts.
What to do in Alnwick in the rain
We also have plenty of things to do at Alnwick Castle in the rain. No weather has ever stopped us from creating the best family day out in Alnwick. Explore the State Rooms, see the Great Kitchen, and immerse yourself in the castle’s rich history in our Castle Museums.
For something more active, why not visit Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre? The swimming pool and indoor sports activities will keep the whole family entertained despite the bad weather. Rain or shine, the Alnwick Playhouse is also always a great option for catching the latest films.
What to do at Alnwick Castle
We may be biased, but no visit to Alnwick is complete without exploring the wonders of Alnwick Castle.
It’s well-known as one of the most iconic places to visit in Alnwick, and we have something for everyone. History buffs can join our daily guided tours and talks, while fans of magic and cinema can immerse themselves in our Broomstick Training sessions. Did you know that Alnwick Castle was used for filming in two Harry Potter films? We host our Broomstick Training in the exact spot where Harry mastered the broom.
Artisans Courtyard is also the perfect spot for crafts, dressing up or getting immersed in the medieval period. Our beautiful grounds and spectacular architecture make it a highlight of any trip to Northumberland, with plenty of things to see and do as a family, as a couple, or as part of a group.
What to do near Alnwick
If you want to venture further afield, there are plenty of places to visit around Alnwick. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum — a tranquil spot that’s famous for its grand tea room and photo-worthy gardens.
For families visiting Alnwick, Northumberland Zoo is only a 20-minute drive away — the perfect opportunity to see and learn about animals up close.
For some fresh sea air, the nearby Craster village is a stunning destination for a scenic coastal walk followed by fresh seafood or hearty fish and chips.
Plan your visit to Alnwick and Alnwick Castle
If you’re ready to experience everything Alnwick has to offer, our doors are open for you to visit us at Alnwick Castle.
Book your tickets to us today and start planning your adventure to experience the best of things to do in Alnwick.