Newcastle: Alnwick and Warkworth Castle Guided Tour

Northumberland, England’s northernmost county, is a captivating destination that beckons visitors to uncover its rich history and stunning landscapes. On this guided tour, adventurers can enjoy the region’s storied past, exploring the magnificent Alnwick Castle, used as Hogwarts in the beloved Harry Potter films, and the dramatic ruins of Warkworth Castle, the former stronghold of the powerful Percy family. As they explore the intriguing tales of the Wars of the Roses, you will also discover the hidden wonders of the poison garden, where around 100 toxic plant species thrive. With a small group and an expert guide, this journey promises an unforgettable experience that will leave travelers eager to unveil more of Northumberland‘s captivating secrets.

Key Points

• This guided tour explores the historic Alnwick Castle and Warkworth Castle in Northumberland, England’s border county.
• Highlights include visiting the Gryffindor common room from the Harry Potter films and learning about the Wars of the Roses at the castles.
• Participants will discover the 600-year-old cross-shaped keep of Warkworth Castle and the poison garden containing around 100 toxic plant species.
• The tour includes entry to both castles, a knowledgeable guide, provided lunch, and a small-group experience limited to 8 participants.
• Flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour provide a stress-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Details

This tour lasts 8 hours and is a small-group experience limited to 8 participants, with a live English-speaking guide leading the way.

The tour takes visitors on an exploration of Northumberland, England’s border county, including stops at the iconic Alnwick Castle and the historic Warkworth Castle.

Highlights include seeing the Gryffindor common room from the Harry Potter films, discovering the poison garden containing around 100 toxic plants, and learning about the Wars of the Roses and the rise and fall of the prominent Percy family.

With a focus on engaging storytelling and immersive experiences, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this tour can be easily done online, with the option to pay later. Customers also benefit from a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in their travel plans.

This tour offers a stress-free booking experience, allowing you to secure your spot without the need to commit to full payment upfront.

Some key points about the booking and cancellation policy include:

• Reserve your spot now and pay later
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• Flexible options to accommodate changes in your schedule

With these convenient booking terms, you can confidently plan your visit to Alnwick and Warkworth Castles, knowing you have the freedom to adjust your plans if needed.

Highlights of the Tour

The guided tour offers a captivating exploration of Alnwick and Warkworth Castles, immersing visitors in the rich history and stunning architecture of these iconic Northumberland landmarks.

Participants will marvel at Gryffindor’s common room from the Harry Potter films, which was filmed at Alnwick Castle. They’ll also discover the 600-year-old cross-shaped keep of Warkworth Castle and learn about the Wars of the Roses and the rise and fall of the powerful Percy family.

The tour also includes a visit to the poison garden, home to around 100 toxic plants, providing a unique and educational experience.

With a live guide and a small group size, this tour offers an in-depth and personalized journey through Northumberland’s captivating past.

Alnwick Castle Visit

Alnwick Castle, the current residence of the Percy family, stands as an impressive testament to Northumberland’s rich history, enchanting visitors with its grand architecture and captivating past.

Guests on the guided tour will have the opportunity to explore the castle’s renowned highlights, including:

• The stunning state rooms, adorned with intricate tapestries, ornate furnishings, and stunning artwork
• The impressive medieval keep, where they can learn about the castle’s strategic role in the Wars of the Roses
• The iconic Outer Baileys, where several scenes from the Harry Potter films were shot, including the famous Broomstick Training scene

Immersing themselves in Alnwick Castle’s grandeur, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s historical significance and the enduring legacy of the Percy family.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Warkworth Castle Exploration

After exploring the grandeur of Alnwick Castle, the tour continues to Warkworth Castle, the original stronghold of the Percy family. Guests will discover Warkworth’s 600-year-old cross-shaped keep, a testament to the castle’s strategic importance during the Wars of the Roses. Visitors will wander through the castle’s ancient walls, imagining the fierce battles that once raged within. The tour guide will share the captivating history of the Percy family, who rose to power and then fell from grace over the centuries. Guests will leave Warkworth Castle with a deeper appreciation for the tumultuous history that shaped England’s border county.

Feature	Description	Significance
Cross-shaped keep	600-year-old architectural design	Defensive strategy
Percy family	Powerful noble dynasty	Wars of the Roses
Northumberland	England’s border county	Turbulent history
Poison garden	Around 100 toxic plants	Intriguing and dangerous
Guided tour	Live tour guide	Enriching experience

Northumberland’s Border County

Nestled along England’s northern border, Northumberland is a captivating county that has witnessed centuries of turbulent history, from the Wars of the Roses to the rise and fall of powerful noble dynasties.

As the border county between England and Scotland, Northumberland has long been a strategic location, a fact reflected in its impressive collection of castles and fortifications.

Visitors to this region can explore:

• The dramatic ruins of Warkworth Castle, once the stronghold of the mighty Percy family
• The magnificent Alnwick Castle, which has served as the seat of the Dukes of Northumberland for over 700 years
• The poison garden at Alnwick, home to around 100 toxic plant species

This historic landscape offers a glimpse into England’s past, where the legacy of border conflicts and noble power struggles still lingers.

Wars of the Roses

The Wars of the Roses, a dynastic conflict that rocked England in the 15th century, saw the powerful Percy family embroiled in the bitter struggle between the House of Lancaster and the House of York. As staunch supporters of the Yorkists, the Percys faced a tumultuous period marked by shifting alliances and the rise and fall of their fortunes. This pivotal chapter in English history is brought to life during the guided tour, where visitors can explore the imposing Warkworth Castle and learn about the Percy family’s role in the Wars of the Roses.

Key Events	Outcomes	Significance
Battle of Towton (1461)	Yorkist victory	Establishment of the House of York on the English throne
Battle of Barnet (1471)	Yorkist victory	Consolidation of the Yorkist hold on power
Battle of Bosworth Field (1485)	Tudor victory	End of the Wars of the Roses, rise of the Tudor dynasty

Tour Inclusions

Booking the guided tour of Alnwick and Warkworth Castles includes:

• Entry to both historical sites
• A knowledgeable guide
• A provided lunch

This allows visitors to fully enjoy the region’s rich heritage.

The tour package provides access to the iconic Gryffindor common room from the Harry Potter films at Alnwick Castle, as well as the opportunity to explore Warkworth Castle’s 600-year-old cross-shaped keep.

Visitors can also discover the poison garden, home to around 100 toxic plants, and learn about the fascinating history of the Wars of the Roses and the rise and fall of the Percy family.

With a small group size and an English-speaking guide, this tour offers an intimate and informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on guided tours. This can provide flexibility and convenience during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available during the tour. Restroom facilities are typically provided at the tour sites, allowing participants to take breaks as needed throughout the duration of the guided experience.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Castles?

Visitors are generally permitted to take photographs inside the castles, though some restrictions may apply in certain areas to preserve the historical integrity. It’s best to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children as the castles contain many stairs and uneven surfaces, and the tour content focuses on historical details that may be too complex for younger audiences. Parents should consider their child’s age and interests before booking.

Is There Any Additional Cost for Transportation to the Tour Site?

The tour includes transportation to and from the sites, so there is no additional cost for transportation. The guided tour provides entry to Alnwick and Warkworth Castles, a guide, and lunch, all covered in the tour price.

Recap

This guided tour of Northumberland’s border county offers an immersive journey through England’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Visitors will marvel at the magnificent Alnwick Castle, explore the dramatic ruins of Warkworth Castle, and learn about the turbulent Wars of the Roses.

With the opportunity to discover the 600-year-old cross-shaped keep and the poison garden, this small-group experience promises an unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: