Newcastle: Alnwick and Warkworth Castle Guided Tour

Explore the rich history of Northern England on the Newcastle: Alnwick and Warkworth Castle Guided Tour. This 8-hour excursion takes you through the majestic Alnwick Castle, known for its role in Harry Potter, and Warkworth Castle, the original stronghold of the powerful Percy family. With a small group, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, complete with lunch and stunning scenery, while learning about the region’s medieval heritage. But there’s more to these castles than meets the eye – their stories of invasions, wars, and rivalries are sure to captivate any history buff.

Key Points

• This guided tour takes visitors to Alnwick and Warkworth Castles, historic fortresses associated with the powerful Percy family in Northern England.
• The tour lasts 8 hours and is limited to a small group of up to 8 participants, providing a personalized experience.
• Alnwick Castle served as a border fortress against the Scots and was a filming location for the Gryffindor common room in Harry Potter.
• Warkworth Castle was the original stronghold of the Percy family and features well-preserved Norman architecture along the Coquet River.
• The tour provides insights into the historical significance and rivalry of the Percy family, as well as the strategic importance of the castles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This guided tour of Alnwick and Warkworth Castle allows visitors to explore the castles of the powerful Percy family, who played a significant role in the history of Northern England during the Middle Ages.

Over 8 hours, you’ll visit both castles with a small group limited to 8 participants, led by an English-speaking guide.

The cost is $342.74 per person, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

No upfront payment is required – simply reserve your spot now and pay later.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the castles’ historical significance and the renowned Percy family.

The Percy Family and Their Castles

The Percy family was a powerful noble dynasty in Northern England during the Middle Ages. Their influence stretched across the region, with grand castles like Alnwick and Warkworth serving as fortresses and seats of power.

| Castle | Historical Significance |

|——–|————————|

| Alnwick | Featured in Harry Potter as Gryffindor’s common room; used as a border castle against Scots |

| Warkworth | Original fortress of the Percy family, located next to the Coquet River; includes a well-preserved Norman church |

The Percy family’s rivalry with the Douglas family added drama to the region’s history, as the two noble houses vied for control and influence during the Wars of the Roses.

Alnwick Castle: The Gryffindor Common Room

Alnwick Castle’s role as the filming location for Gryffindor’s common room in the Harry Potter films has cemented its place in pop culture lore. Fans flock to the castle to glimpse the grand interiors and staircases where Harry, Ron, and Hermione studied magic.

Towering turrets and stone walls transport visitors to the wizarding world. Beyond its Hollywood fame, Alnwick Castle served as a strategic border fortress against the Scots during the Middle Ages.

Guests can explore the medieval architecture, learn about the powerful Percy family, and even wander through the famous Poison Garden filled with toxic plants.

Warkworth Castle: The Original Percy Stronghold

Warkworth Castle stands as the original stronghold of the powerful Percy family, a noble dynasty that left an indelible mark on the history of Northern England.

This well-preserved Norman fortress sits beside the picturesque Coquet River, its imposing walls and towers a testament to the family’s might and influence.

Visitors can explore the grand apartments, the mighty keep, and the remnants of the family’s private chapel.

The castle’s strategic location made it a crucial border fortification, guarding against Scottish incursions.

Today, it offers a glimpse into the tumultuous past of the Percys and their rivalry with the Douglas clan.

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Exploring the Poison Garden

Although Alnwick Castle’s opulent interiors and grand architecture often captivate visitors, one of the most intriguing features of the estate is its Poison Garden.

Carefully curated with around 100 toxic plants, the garden offers a glimpse into the darker side of botany. Guides lead guests through winding paths, sharing the intriguing – and often deadly – histories of plants like wolfsbane, nightshade, and opium poppies.

Visitors are warned not to touch or smell the plants, lest they experience their potent effects. Exploring the Poison Garden is a highlight of the Alnwick Castle tour, providing a memorable and educational experience.

Invasions, Wars, and Rivalries

As the powerful Percy family rose to prominence in Northern England during the Middle Ages, their castles at Alnwick and Warkworth became vital strongholds against the constant threat of Scottish invasions.

These strategic fortresses played crucial roles in the long-standing rivalries and conflicts between the English and the Scots. Visitors can learn about the dramatic battles and shifting alliances that unfolded within these castle walls, including the Wars of the Roses – a complex dynastic struggle that eventually saw the Percy family lose their lands and power.

The tour provides a captivating glimpse into this tumultuous history.

The Rise and Fall of the Percy Dynasty

The rise of the Percy family to become one of the most powerful noble houses in Northern England during the Middle Ages was a remarkable feat, marked by their strategic control over the castles of Alnwick and Warkworth.

The family’s influence waxed and waned over the centuries, shaped by:

1. Their military prowess in defending the English border against Scottish incursions

2. Their political alliances and rivalries, including their feud with the Douglas family

3. Their patronage of the arts and support for religious institutions

4. The family’s downfall during the Wars of the Roses, which ultimately led to the loss of their ancestral lands.

What to Expect and Prepare For

Embarking on this guided tour of Alnwick and Warkworth castles promises an immersive journey through the rich history and captivating narratives that have shaped these iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an engaging adventure, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. To ensure you’re prepared, here’s a handy table outlining what to bring and what to expect:

| What to Bring | What to Expect |

| — | — |

| Comfortable walking shoes | Guided exploration of Alnwick and Warkworth Castles |

| Weather-appropriate clothing | Fascinating stories of invasions and power struggles |

| Camera to capture the stunning scenery | Lunch provided during the tour |

| Sense of adventure | Limited group size for a more personalized experience |

The tour’s duration of 8 hours allows ample time to fully learn about the castles’ grandeur and uncover their pivotal role in Northern England’s past.

Things To Know

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and hiking shoes. The tour involves walking around historic castles, so dressing for ease of movement and protection from the elements is best.

How Handicap-Accessible Are the Castles?

The castles have limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges. While they try to accommodate, some areas have steep staircases and uneven terrain. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs prior to booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Lunch is provided as part of the tour package. However, visitors are welcome to bring water and snacks to enjoy during breaks or free time at the castles.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, exploring the grounds and interiors of both castles. Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear as the tour includes both indoor and outdoor elements across the castle sites.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement. Children are welcome, but parents should ensure they can handle the moderate walking involved. The tour is suitable for most ages, though very young children may find it challenging.

Sum Up

This captivating tour immerses visitors in the rich history of Northern England. From the majestic Alnwick Castle‘s Gryffindor connections to the formidable Warkworth Castle, the tour offers a glimpse into the power struggles and dynasties that shaped the region. With stunning scenery, a personalized experience, and an exploration of the infamous Poison Garden, this excursion is a must for anyone fascinated by medieval heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: