I give this top marks because of it’s tourist appeal especially the kids…....you cannot drag them away!!!!. Also it’s fairy-tale looks and it’s plethora of activities, I dare you to be bored.
Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England, the first being Windsor Castle, and has been the home of the Percys, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland since 1309. The earliest mention of Alnwick Castle in the history books appears soon after 1096 when Yves de Vescy became baron of Alnwick and erected the earliest parts of the Castle.
The Castle was first restored by the 1st Lord Percy of Alnwick in the early 1300’s and portions of this restoration remain today, including the Abbot’s Tower, the Middle Gateway and the Constable’s Tower.

To many people, their first sight of this glorious medieval castle can seem foreboding, and certainly its history lacks nothing in drama and intrigue. Some, may recognise it as a film location, for everything from Harry Potter, Elizabeth, Becket and Blackadder.
Today Alnwick Castle is very much a living castle, at the heart of thriving estates and businesses; and is still the family home of the Duke of Northumberland, as it has been for nearly seven hundred years. There is so much to see and do - history, art, landscape, fun for the children, dining, shopping, exploring - and I hope this review will give you a taste of our ‘Windsor of the North’.
Alnwick Castle is one of the North’s most popular venues for events. That ensures that no two visits to the Castle are ever the same. It is also the Home HQ and Museum of The Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, with lots to see for the old soldiers.
It has a busy and ever-expanding programme and whether you’re interested in music or drama, falconry, archery, wizardry or crafts - there’s always something going on. The town of Alnwick is within walking distance and has a wide variety os shops, restaurants, pubs and open spaces for picnicing or relaxing. The town abounds with craft fairs, book shops, (especially ‘Barter Books’ which is one of the largest second hand book-shops in England, with over 350,000 books to choose from. I must not forget Alnwick Gardens….but this needs a seperate review, which I will give you soon. Here we go then!!!!..............not cheap!!!!....but good fun.

Open Daily 20th March to 26th October 2008
11.00 am to 5.00 pm (Last admission 4.30p.m)
Grounds open 10.00am to 6.00pm.
Admission Prices 2008:
DAILY TICKET
Adult - £10.50
Concession - £9.00
Child - £4.50
Child under 5 years - free
Family - £27.50

This is a very magical place and if you have ever watched any of the Harry Potter movies you will know that this is the set for Hogwarts. Not only does this castle look beautiful close up, but if you go past the Giant Treehouse and over a stone bridge you get a fantastic photo shot of the castle in the distance. You don't have to be a kid to enjoy Alnwick Castle as it appeals to all ages with its simplicity and stunning location. I would say it was a little on the expensive side, but for all the fame it has achieved its to be expected. Your average spend for a family of 4 would be around £50 for entry and snack or souvenir to take away, saying that though its well worth it when you come away feeling like you have been to a completely different continent. Definitely a must see attraction if your ever up the Northumbrian coast.