Potterheads, get ready for an enchanting adventure! Set out on a captivating day trip from Edinburgh to Alnwick Castle, the iconic filming location for the Harry Potter series. Explore the castle’s grand halls and enchanting gardens, then venture into the breathtaking Scottish Borders region. Along the way, discover the impressive Bamburgh Castle and the charming town of Coldstream. With a knowledgeable guide to provide historical insights, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for both Muggles and wizards alike.

Contents show

About Your Stay

This day trip offers the opportunity to explore the iconic Alnwick Castle, a filming location for the Harry Potter movies.
The tour also includes a visit to the impressive medieval Bamburgh Castle and the charming town of Coldstream.
The tour provides ample time for visitors to enjoy the magical world of Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle.
Admission fees to the castles are not included in the tour package, allowing flexibility for travelers.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides historical context and Harry Potter-related trivia throughout the day.

Tour Highlights

Although the tour includes several captivating destinations, the highlights are undoubtedly Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle.

Bamburgh’s imposing medieval fortress provides a breathtaking backdrop, while Alnwick Castle’s grand architecture and Harry Potter filming locations captivate visitors.

The tour grants ample time to explore these iconic sites, with 1 hour at Bamburgh and 2 hours 45 minutes at Alnwick.

While admission isn’t included, the itinerary ensures you make the most of your time at these must-see attractions.

Between the stunning scenery and magical connections, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Edinburgh

Itinerary Breakdown

The day trip begins with a convenient 8:15 am departure from the Highland Explorer Tours office in central Edinburgh. The first stop is Bamburgh Castle, where visitors have an hour to explore this historic fortress with stunning coastal views. The tour then proceeds to the highlight of the day, Alnwick Castle, where guests can enjoy the magical world of Harry Potter for nearly 3 hours.

Location	Duration	Admission
Bamburgh Castle	1 hour	Not Included
Alnwick Castle	2 hours 45 minutes	Not Included
Coldstream	30 minutes	Free Entry

The last stop is the quaint town of Coldstream, where guests can wander for half an hour before the return to Edinburgh.

What to Expect

Travelers can expect a full day of magical exploration on this Harry Potter-themed tour. The excursion visits three captivating destinations:

Bamburgh Castle, an impressive medieval fortress with stunning ocean views.
Alnwick Castle, famous for its appearances in the Harry Potter films.
Coldstream, a quaint border town with free entry.

Along the way, a knowledgeable guide provides historical context and Harry Potter trivia.

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, though entrance fees to Alnwick Castle aren’t included.

Important Details

This day trip departs promptly at 8:15 am from the Highland Explorer Tours office located at 60 High Street in Edinburgh.

You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a local, English-speaking guide. The tour includes stops at Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle, and Coldstream, though entrance fees aren’t included.

Lunch and drinks aren’t provided, so be sure to bring your own. Alnwick Castle tickets can be purchased upon arrival.

The tour returns to the original meeting point in Edinburgh. Guests must arrive 15 minutes early, and the maximum group size is 16 travelers.

Questions About Your Stay

There's plenty more to explore in Edinburgh

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

The tour provider offers discounts for groups of 4 or more people. They also have a maximum group size of 16 travelers, allowing for cost-effective pricing. Contact the operator directly for current discount and group rate information.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour also includes transportation and entrance fees, so travelers may prefer to take advantage of those inclusions as well.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Alnwick Castle?

Photography is generally allowed inside Alnwick Castle, though some areas may have restrictions. Visitors should check with the castle staff upon arrival for the latest guidelines. Most tours include admission, so it’s a budget-friendly way to explore this historic site.

Do We Need to Book the Castle Admission Tickets in Advance?

You don’t need to book Alnwick Castle admission tickets in advance. The tour includes admission, which can be purchased at check-in. To save time, it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for the tour check-in.

Can We Extend Our Stay at the Locations After the Tour Ends?

Travelers can’t extend their stay at the tour locations after the trip ends. The tour package includes set visit times, and visitors must return to the original meeting point. However, visitors can purchase additional admission tickets to explore the sites on their own before or after the tour.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This magical day trip provides a captivating Harry Potter experience. Explore the iconic Alnwick Castle, discover scenic Scottish Borders, and uncover rich history. With ample time to immerse yourself, it’s an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a Potterhead or simply seeking an enchanting day out, this tour offers a budget-friendly and practical way to experience the wizarding world and stunning landscapes.