History of Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle has stood for nearly 950 years as one of England’s most important border fortresses, later transformed into a grand ducal residence and now a major Northumberland landmark. Its story is deeply tied to the powerful Percy family, who have shaped the castle since the early 14th century.
Timeline of Key Events
- 1096 – The Beginning: The first parts of Alnwick Castle are built by Yves de Vescy, a Norman Baron, to control the dangerous Anglo-Scottish border.
- 1172 & 1174 – Scottish Sieges: The castle is attacked twice by William the Lion, King of Scotland. In 1174, he is captured near Alnwick, a major turning point in border politics.
- 1309 – The Percy Era Begins: Henry de Percy purchases the castle. The Percy family will shape Alnwick for the next 700+ years.
- 14th-15th Centuries – Decline: With border warfare fading, the castle becomes less essential militarily. Parts fall into disrepair during the Tudor and Stuart periods.
- 1750s-1780s – Georgian Transformation: the Percys, now Dukes of Northumberland, remodel the castle as a grand residence. Architects James Paine and Robert Adam redesign interiors. Capability Brown reshapes the surrounding landscape.
- 1850s – Victorian Restoration: Architect Anthony Salvin restores the castle’s medieval look. Many of the iconic battlements and towers seen today date from this period.
- 20th Century – Modern Use: Parts of the castle house soldiers during both World Wars. The castle opens more fully to the public.
- Today: Still home to the Duke of Northumberland. A blend of medieval fortress, stately home and filming location.
Visitor Information
Opening Times
- Open late March to late October each year
- Castle grounds typically open 10am-5pm
- Final admission usually around 3:45pm
Tickets & Pricing
- Adult (17 – 59 years): £21.55 (Gate Price £23.95)
- Concession (60+ years): £17.55 (Gate Price £19.50)
- Child (5 – 16 years): £11.35 (Gate Price £12.65)
- Child (0 -4 years): Free
- All tickets purchased online are automatically season passes, valid for 12 months from your first visit
Top Things To Do
- Explore the State Rooms filled with art and historic collections
- Join guided tours about history, film locations and castle life
- Try archery, medieval crafts and interactive demonstrations
- Enjoy Harry Potter broomstick training on the filming lawn
- Visit special exhibitions such as ‘The Shot Heard Round the World’
Films Shot at Alnwick Castle
- Becket
- Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves
- Elizabeth
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- Mary Queen of Scots
- Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
- Transformers: The Last Knight