Alnwick Castle: Day Trips and Tours from Edinburgh

Escape the bustling streets and embark on an unforgettable day trip to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh, just across the border in Northumberland, England.

This magnificent fortress stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural grandeur and is accompanied by an equally mesmerizing scenic drive over the Scottish Borders before arriving at the enchanting Alnwick Castle.

Explore the majestic halls and chambers that have witnessed the lives of noble families, stroll through its stunning gardens, or stand on the very spot where famous witches and wizards took flight in the Harry Potter films.

Here's your guide to Alnwick Castle, one of the most historic day trips from Edinburgh.

How do you get to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh?

Alnwick Castle is located southeast of Edinburgh, just across the Scottish border into England.

From Edinburgh to Alnwick Castle by car

Drive on the A1 out of Edinburgh for around 125 kilometers. Turn right onto the B6341 which takes you the last few kilometers to the castle. The route takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

From Edinburgh to Alnwick Castle by public transport

There are several trains a day from Edinburgh to the town of Alnmouth. From there you can take the X20 Max bus directly to the castle.

Guided tour to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh

A guided day trip to Alnwick Castle is the best way to explore the castle as well as other beautiful stops along the Scottish border. Sit back in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a thoroughly planned itinerary that helps you make the most of your time in the area.

How much is the entrance ticket to Alnwick Castle?

There are several entry fee categories at Alnwick Castle:

• Adults: £19.50
• Adults over 60 or full-time students: £15.75
• Children (5 – 16years): £10.25
• Children under 4: free
• Family (2 adults and up to 4 children): £53

What is the typical itinerary of an Alnwick Castle day trip?

Embark on a full-day tour through the captivating Scottish Borders, commencing in the morning from Edinburgh’s bus station. The first stop brings you to the historic city of Kelso, renowned for its sprawling market square, the largest in Scotland. Take a leisurely stroll through the market, immerse yourself in the charming cobbled streets, and discover the intriguing history of Kelso Abbey, which endured centuries of conflicts and English invasions.

Next, prepare to be enchanted as you arrive at the iconic Alnwick Castle. Marvel at the majestic stronghold that served as a filming location for renowned productions such as Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Delve into the castle's rich heritage, wander through its grand halls, and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere. With the tour price, you'll enjoy entrance to Alnwick Castle and you can upgrade to a Garden ticket upon arrival. With 3 hours at the castle, you will have plenty of time to see every corner of the grounds.

The journey continues along the mesmerizing Northumberland Coast, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking scenery of this coastal paradise, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance. As the day draws to a close, we'll make our way back to Edinburgh, filled with memories of the enchanting Scottish Borders, the remarkable Alnwick Castle, and the stunning Northumberland Coast.

Alternatively, you can book a tour that starts with a drive along the scenic North Sea coastline, leading you to the historic border town of Berwick-on-Tweed and Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island. Experience the rich heritage as you explore the 16th-century Lindisfarne Castle and visit the Priory, where the renowned Lindisfarne Gospels were created. Marvel at the splendid vistas of Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands before you depart to Alnwick Castle.

Which kinds of tours can you take to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh?

Day trips to Alnwick Castle have each been curated to add a few more scenic and historically valuable stops along the way to the castle.

Day trip to Alnwick Castle plus Holy Island from Edinburgh

Unveil the secrets of the enchanting Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria as you embark on a captivating day trip from Edinburgh. Immerse yourself in the allure of ruined castles, charming villages, and the untamed beauty of the North-East England coastline. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era as you uncover the rich history and captivating landscapes that define this remarkable region.

Day trip to Alnwick Castle plus Scottish Border from Edinburgh

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Edinburgh and discover the untamed beauty and cultural wonders of the Scottish Borders. Journey to the charming market town of Kelso, where history comes alive amidst its historic streets and grand market square before setting off to the main attraction, Alnwick Castle. Finally, you will make a stop at the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you can bask in the breathtaking scenery of this coastal gem.

How much does a day trip to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh cost?

Day tours to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh all range between £50 and £80 per person. Not all tours include the price of admission to Alnwick Castle while others include that and other admission prices. You will always travel in a comfortable minivan and be led by an expert tour guide that knows and understands the nuanced history of the region.

What will you see at Alnwick Castle?

Alnwick Castle is a captivating attraction with many beautiful areas to explore.

The State Rooms

Step into the opulence of the State Rooms at Alnwick Castle and be transported to a bygone era. Admire the exquisite architecture, lavish furnishings, and intricate details that adorn these grand chambers. Marvel at the stunning artworks, tapestries, and historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into the castle's rich heritage. Immerse yourself in the splendor of the past as you explore these magnificent rooms.

The Alnwick Garden

Venture into the enchanting Alnwick Garden, a mesmerizing oasis of beauty and tranquility. Stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, adorned with vibrant flowers, fragrant herbs, and lush greenery. Discover the grandeur of the Grand Cascade, a stunning waterfall that cascades down a series of terraces. Unleash your inner child in the whimsical Treehouse, a magical haven nestled among the treetops.

The Dragon's Quest

Embark on a thrilling adventure with The Dragon's Quest, a captivating interactive experience that takes you on a quest to find mythical creatures hidden within the castle walls. Unleash your inner detective as you solve puzzles, decipher clues, and uncover the secrets of the castle. Engage in an immersive and entertaining activity that will delight visitors of all ages.

Children's Activities

Alnwick Castle offers a range of engaging and educational activities tailored specifically for children. From interactive displays and storytelling sessions to medieval games and dressing up in knightly attire, young visitors will be enthralled by the castle's family-friendly offerings. Let their imagination run wild as they explore the castle's nooks and crannies and partake in age-appropriate activities designed to entertain and educate. You can even take broomstick flying lessons on the lawns of the castle, famously used for flying lessons in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

When is Alnwick Castle open?

Alnwick Castle is not open during the winter months. You can only visit the castle from late March to late October and visitors should check the exact dates each year. There are different opening times for various sections of the castle with strict last entry times:

• Castle Grounds – 10 AM – 5.30 PM (last admission at 3.45 PM)
• Artisan's Courtyard – 10 AM – 5 PM (last entry at 4.30 PM)
• State Rooms – 10.30 AM – 4.30 PM (last entry at 4 PM)
• Museum Towers – 10 AM – 5.30 PM (last entry at 4.30 PM)
• Fusiliers Museum – 11 AM – 5 PM (last entry at 4.30 PM)
• Stables Fryery – 11 AM – 3 PM

When is the best time to tour Alnwick Castle?

Alnwick Castle is primarily an outdoor attraction, so visiting during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, can provide more pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and gardens.

However, the castle tends to be busier during the summer months. If you prefer a quieter experience, you may want to consider visiting during shoulder seasons, when the crowds are smaller.

Alnwick Castle hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as reenactments, exhibitions, and special themed events. Checking the castle's event calendar can help you plan your visit to coincide with any specific activities or interests you may have.

Top Alnwick Castle tips

• Alnwick Castle can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early in the day can help you beat the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit.
• Alnwick Castle offers various activities for visitors, check the schedule and participate.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the castle and gardens, and dress appropriately for the weather.
• If the weather permits, consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the castle grounds. There are designated picnic areas where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.