Discover the Hidden Gem of Alnwick in Northumberland
As students in Durham, we often overlook the fact that our university is situated just below the stunning region of Northumberland. This picturesque area is home to medieval castles, rugged beaches, rolling hills, and charming towns. One such town is the enchanting Alnwick, which can be easily reached by train to Alnmouth.
Explore the Charming Market Town
Alnwick is a hidden gem enclosed within eleventh-century castle walls. This historic market town offers a delightful local experience. Spend a day strolling through its quaint cobbled streets, lined with charming cafes, bookshops, and antique stores. Enjoy a warm smile and delicious breakfast, coffee, and cakes at Copperfields, The Origami Café, and Sweet Solstice. For a taste of local cuisine, visit Grannies Tea Room and Delicatessen, where you can browse through their shelves filled with time-honored produce in an ‘Old Curiosity Shop’ style.
Indulge in Bookworm Heaven
Alnwick is a paradise for book lovers. Visit Barter Books, located in the old Victorian Railway Station, which is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in England. Browse through over 350,000 books while enjoying the miniature railway, art murals, and a cozy café. Another must-visit is The Accidental Bookshop, created to support independent bookstores after the lockdown. It offers a beautiful selection of books and an extremely tall bookshelf.
Alnwick offers bookworms a lot to chew on.
Step into History at Alnwick Castle
No visit to Alnwick is complete without exploring the magnificent Alnwick Castle. This castle has been the home of the Percy family for nearly 700 years and showcases medieval towers, a 14th-century dungeon, and walls adorned with magnificent art by Van Dyck and Canaletto. Interestingly, both Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and the Chamber of Secrets were filmed at this castle. The castle’s Outer Bailey served as the set for Harry’s Quidditch lessons, and Ron famously crashed his dad’s flying car in its grounds.
Experience Nature’s Beauty at Alnwick Garden
Adjacent to Alnwick Castle lies the stunning Alnwick Garden, one of the best-landscaped gardens in the northeast of England. Marvel at the long cascading water fountain and take a tour of the Poison Garden to learn about the history and effects of different toxic and harmful plants. Explore the orchards, rose garden, and pavilion, where you’ll find Barbara Hepworth’s 1958 Sculpture ‘Ascending Form’.
One of the best-landscaped gardens to visit in the northeast of England.
Unwind at Cozy Pubs and Delightful Restaurants
Alnwick boasts a variety of characterful and cozy pubs. Enjoy locally brewed ale next to the fireplace at the quirky Tanner’s Arms or visit the vibrant micro-pub Harry’s Bar. For a unique dining experience, book in advance at The Tree House Restaurant, located in Alnwick’s Castle garden. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers excellent food in a cozy wooden setting. Alternatively, savor great food on solid ground at the atmospheric Adam and Eve, which showcases produce from Northumberland.
Extend Your Stay and Explore Northumberland’s Beaches
Alnwick serves as a perfect starting point to visit Northumberland’s beautiful beaches. Explore villages like Cresswell, Alnmouth, Craster, Seahouses, Bamburgh, and Amble, all hugging the coast. Take scenic walks along untouched and idyllic beaches and coves, enjoying the breathtaking views.
About the Author
Alice Reynolds is a passionate photographer and writer who loves to explore hidden gems like Alnwick. Through her lens and words, she captures the essence of these places and shares them with others.
Conclusion
Discover the magic of Alnwick in Northumberland, a town filled with history, charm, and natural beauty. From exploring the medieval Alnwick Castle to strolling through the well-manicured Alnwick Garden, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Indulge in local cuisine at cozy pubs and delightful restaurants, and don’t forget to visit the bookshops that make Alnwick a paradise for bookworms. Extend your stay to explore the stunning beaches of Northumberland, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Alnwick is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
