Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Tour From Edinburgh

Taking a day trip from Edinburgh to explore the captivating Alnwick Castle and scenic Scottish Borders can be a truly enriching experience. The tour promises breathtaking landscapes, immersive cultural experiences, and the opportunity to uncover the region’s storied past. Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, or simply seek to explore the area’s rich heritage, this 9.5-hour journey offers a chance to create lasting memories. As you embark on this adventure, prepare to be enchanted by the grandeur of Alnwick Castle and the serene beauty of the Scottish Borders.

Key Points

• This 9.5-hour tour from Edinburgh takes visitors to Alnwick Castle, a filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, as well as other scenic attractions in the Scottish Borders.
• The tour includes transportation, a live English guide, and an optional entry to Alnwick Castle, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Key highlights of the tour include a 45-minute stop in Bamburgh to view Bamburgh Castle, 3 hours to explore Alnwick Castle, and a visit to the town of Coldstream.
• The tour is priced from $81.48 per person and is suitable for children aged 5-17, who must be accompanied by an adult.
• Based on 139 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Tour from Edinburgh is a comprehensive day trip that allows visitors to explore the captivating history and picturesque landscapes of the region.

Priced from $81.48 per person, the 9.5-hour tour includes transportation, a live English guide, and optional entry to Alnwick Castle, a key filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

Priced from $81.48 per person, the 9.5-hour tour includes transportation, a live English guide, and optional entry to Alnwick Castle.

Along the way, travelers will visit Bamburgh Castle, a traditional Scottish village, and the historic town of Coldstream.

With free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment, this tour offers flexibility and value for money.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the tour at the Highland Explorer Tours office in Edinburgh, the Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders excursion takes travelers on a captivating journey through the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Highlights include a 45-minute stop in the charming coastal town of Bamburgh to view the impressive 5th-century Bamburgh Castle. Next, visitors spend 3 hours exploring the grand Alnwick Castle, a filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. A half-hour break in a traditional village offers time for photos before reaching Coldstream, where the group learns about the town’s history.

| Itinerary Highlights |

|———————|

| Bamburgh, England |

| Alnwick Castle |

| Traditional Village |

| Coldstream |

| Return to Edinburgh |

Attractions

Alnwick Castle, a key filming location for the Harry Potter and Downton Abbey franchises, stands as a captivating centerpiece of this tour.

Visitors can explore the grand, ornate rooms and impressive architecture of this historic castle.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at the scenic Bamburgh Castle, which boasts 5th-century origins and breathtaking views of the coastline.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Borders region, adding to the overall charm and cultural richness of the excursion.

Inclusions and Restrictions

Although the tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, it restricts entry to children under 5 years old and unaccompanied minors. For children aged 5-17, they must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour offers optional entry to Alnwick Castle and Gardens, allowing visitors to explore the grand rooms and architecture at their own pace. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese, catering to a diverse audience.

The tour also provides the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving customers greater control over their plans.

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Customer Feedback

The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 139 customer reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and engaging guides, as well as the breathtaking scenery along the route.

Some suggestions for improvement include:

1. Adjusting the itinerary to allow more time at certain stops.

2. Providing clearer instructions for meeting the group at the starting point.

3. Incorporating additional stops or activities to enhance the overall experience.

4. Offering a more diverse range of audio guide languages to cater to a wider audience.

Despite minor suggestions, the tour receives strong praise for its value and overall quality.

Exploring Bamburgh Castle

As the tour makes its way from Edinburgh, the first stop is the picturesque village of Bamburgh, where visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the 5th-century Bamburgh Castle. The castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop, commands stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can explore the castle’s impressive architecture, including the keep, towers, and state rooms. The tour provides 45 minutes to wander the grounds and take in the breathtaking scenery. A table highlighting key details about Bamburgh Castle is provided below:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Age | 5th century |

| Location | Coastal village of Bamburgh, England |

| Architectural Style | Expansive, with keep, towers, and state rooms |

| Significance | Historical landmark with scenic views |

| Duration | 45-minute visit |

Discovering Alnwick Castle

After admiring the impressive Bamburgh Castle, the tour continues its journey to the historic town of Alnwick.

Alnwick Castle, known as the ‘Windsor of the North’, is the highlight of the tour. Visitors can:

1. Explore the grand state rooms and marvel at the castle’s impressive architecture.

2. Discover the castle’s role as a filming location for popular TV shows like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

3. Stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens, including the famous Poison Garden.

4. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s ramparts.

With its rich history and cinematic connections, Alnwick Castle is a must-see destination on this tour.

Journey Through the Scottish Borders

Following the visit to Alnwick Castle, the tour ventures into the scenic Scottish Borders region.

The coach traverses the picturesque countryside, affording passengers stunning views of rolling hills, winding rivers, and charming villages.

In Coldstream, the guide provides insights into the town’s rich history, from its role in the Anglo-Scottish wars to its modern significance as a border crossing.

Guests enjoy a brief stop to explore the town and capture photos of the scenic landscape.

As the tour continues, the guide shares captivating anecdotes about the region’s fascinating past, enhancing the immersive experience for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator allows passengers to bring personal snacks and beverages to enjoy during the journey, though meal stops are also included in the itinerary.

What Is the Policy for Late Arrivals or Missed Pickups?

The tour operator has a strict policy on late arrivals and missed pickups. Participants who miss the scheduled pickup time may be denied entry and no refunds will be provided. Guests are advised to arrive at the designated meeting point on time.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not currently offer any discounted pricing for students or seniors. All travelers pay the standard rate, which starts at $81.48 per person. There are no special offers or concessions available for this tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Locations?

Yes, customers can customize the itinerary to visit specific locations. However, this may incur additional fees and require prior arrangement with the tour operator. The standard itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate personal interests and preferences within the tour’s overall duration.

Is There Wifi Available on the Tour Bus?

The tour bus doesn’t have Wi-Fi available. However, the tour company provides downloadable audio guides in multiple languages to enhance the experience. Passengers can access additional information and commentary about the sights during the journey.

The Sum Up

The Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Tour from Edinburgh offers a captivating day trip, featuring a journey through breathtaking landscapes and immersive cultural experiences. Highlights include admiring Bamburgh Castle, exploring the iconic Alnwick Castle, and discovering the scenic Scottish Borders. With transportation, a live English guide, and a range of inclusions, this tour promises a memorable adventure for visitors seeking to explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: