Alnwick Castle, Northumberland & Scottish Borders 1-Day Tour

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland & Scottish Borders 1-Day Tour offers a chance to explore the captivating landscapes and rich history of the region. From the enchanting Holy Island to the majestic Bamburgh Castle, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan seeking the magic of Alnwick Castle or an admirer of architectural wonders, this guided excursion caters to diverse interests. With a small group size, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This day-long excursion from Edinburgh explores the highlights of Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, including Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, and the iconic Alnwick Castle.
• Alnwick Castle, the filming location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, offers guided tours and broomstick training sessions for an immersive wizarding experience.
• The Holy Island of Lindisfarne features the ruins of an early Christianity center, accessible via a causeway that disappears with the tide.
• Bamburgh Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the North Sea, and the scenic Bamburgh Beach provide opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
• The tour is priced from CZK 1,606 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 passengers for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Alnwick Castle Tour is a day-long excursion that takes visitors from Edinburgh to the historic Northumberland region and Scottish Borders.

Priced from CZK 1,606 per person, the 10-hour tour departs at 8:15 AM sharp from 22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, and returns to the same location.

The 10-hour tour departs at 8:15 AM sharp from 22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, and returns to the same location, priced from CZK 1,606 per person.

Travelers explore Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, and the real-life Hogwarts – Alnwick Castle. The air-conditioned bus offers regular comfort breaks.

While entry to Alnwick Castle is optional until late 2025, the tour will visit Bamburgh Castle instead.

Food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included. This tour is suitable for ages 7 and up, with a maximum group size of 8 passengers.

Itinerary Highlights

While exploring the historic Northumberland region and Scottish Borders, the tour highlights several captivating destinations.

Visitors first stop at the Holy Island of Lindisfarne to sightsee the island’s unique heritage. Next, they’ll venture to Bamburgh, where they can visit the imposing Bamburgh Castle and scenic beach.

The tour’s main highlight is Alnwick Castle, the real-life Hogwarts, where participants can engage in broomstick training sessions.

Finally, the Scottish Borders offer insights into the Border Reivers and notable historical figures like Sir Walter Scott and Scotland’s Outlaw King.

Alnwick Castle and Broomstick Training

Alnwick Castle, the real-life filming location for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, stands as the tour’s main highlight. Visitors can explore the castle’s grand architecture and participate in thrilling broomstick training sessions. The experience is truly magical, as guests learn to fly like their favorite wizards.

| Alnwick Castle Features | |

|————————|——-|

| Guided Tour | ✓ |

| Broomstick Training | ✓ |

| Hogwarts Filming Locale| ✓ |

| Wheelchair Accessible | ✓ |

| Photography Allowed | ✓ |

Enjoy the wizarding world and discover the enchanting secrets of Alnwick Castle on this unforgettable tour.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

One of the tour’s captivating stops is the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a revered medieval site steeped in history and spiritual significance.

Accessible only by a causeway that disappears with the tide, the island is home to the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, a former center of early Christianity.

Visitors can explore the picturesque island, learning about its rich heritage as a place of pilgrimage and the site of the famous Lindisfarne Gospels.

With its stunning coastal scenery and connection to the past, the Holy Island offers a unique and memorable experience on the Alnwick Castle tour.

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Bamburgh Castle and Beach

After exploring the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, the tour proceeds to the charming coastal town of Bamburgh. Here, visitors can marvel at the impressive Bamburgh Castle, an impressive medieval fortress perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea. Guests can also take a stroll along the pristine Bamburgh Beach, known for its miles of golden sand and stunning views. The tour provides the opportunity to visit both the castle and the beach, allowing travelers to enjoy the history and natural beauty of this picturesque region.

| Feature | Bamburgh Castle | Bamburgh Beach |

| — | — | — |

| History | Dating back to the 11th century, the castle has a rich past | Historically, the beach has been an important fishing site |

| Architecture | Impressive medieval architecture with stone walls and towers | No man-made structures, just natural sand and dunes |

| Views | Panoramic vistas of the North Sea and surrounding countryside | Unobstructed views of the coastline and North Sea |

| Activities | Explore the interior rooms and learn about the castle’s history | Stroll along the shore, beachcomb, or simply relax |

| Accessibility | Castle has stairs and some accessibility limitations | Beach is flat and wheelchair-friendly |

Scottish Borders and Historical Figures

The tour then explores the Scottish Borders region, delving into its rich history and the lives of famous historical figures.

Travelers learn about the Border Reivers, a notorious group of raiders who terrorized the region for centuries. They also discover the legacy of Sir Walter Scott, the renowned Scottish author who immortalized the Borders in his novels.

Plus, the tour highlights the story of Scotland’s Outlaw King, Robert the Bruce, and his connection to the area.

Through these engaging narratives, the tour provides a deeper understanding of the Scottish Borders’ captivating past.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus with a driver/guide providing live commentary.

Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus with a driver/guide providing live commentary throughout the tour.

Entry to Alnwick Castle and Gardens is optional from March 28 to late October 2025, while Bamburgh Castle can be visited until March 27, 2025.

Food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included. Children under 7 aren’t allowed, and proof of age is required for participants 7 and older.

The group size is limited to 8 passengers, and no waiting will be done for late arrivals.

Buses don’t have toilets, and there are no public facilities near the meeting point.

Customer Reviews

Customers have provided overall positive feedback on the Alnwick Castle Tour, praising its scenic stops and the knowledgeable guide.

With a 4.4/5 rating based on 11 reviews, travelers highlight the tour’s value for money and reliable transportation.

Specific highlights include:

• The visit to Lindisfarne, which offers a unique historical perspective

• The opportunity to explore Bamburgh Castle and its beautiful beach

• The broomstick training sessions at Alnwick Castle, a favorite among Harry Potter fans

• The insights into the Scottish Borders and its famous historical figures

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in English and provides live commentary during the tour. However, the tour materials and services are only offered in English, so multilingual capabilities are not specified in the tour details.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not mention any discounts for seniors or students. It’s an all-inclusive package priced at Kč 1,606 per person. Discounts may be available through third-party booking channels, but aren’t specified in the tour details provided.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. The tour overview states that "small bags are allowed" and "bringing drinks/light lunch is encouraged".

Is There Wheelchair Accessibility on the Tour Bus and at the Sites?

The tour bus and sites have limited wheelchair accessibility. Travelers with mobility needs should contact the tour operator for specific details and assistance options. Advance notice is recommended to ensure the best experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend or add activities. However, travelers can explore the sites at their own pace during the scheduled stops. Additional activities are not included, but visitors can inquire about local arrangements before or after the tour.

The Sum Up

The Alnwick Castle, Northumberland & Scottish Borders 1-Day Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. From the enchanting Holy Island to the iconic Alnwick Castle, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and a deeper connection with the past. With a small group size, travelers can enjoy a personalized journey through these remarkable sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: