This medieval market town in the heart of Northumberland was once used a stopping place between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Newcastle, and still displays the remains of inns and old stone buildings in its streets. More recently however, Alnwick was deemed the 'Best Place in Britain to Live' by a national magazine and its wonderful Castle, home to the Duke of Northumberland, has even featured in two Harry Potter films. The castle is a coach tour must: Explore the Capability Brown-designed gardens, check out the 14th century dungeons and ornate State Rooms and marvel at world-class paintings including works by Van Dyck.
Close to the castle is the The Alnwick Garden, a spectacular vision turned reality of the Duchess of Northumberland offering 15,000 plants in the ornamental garden alone. Stumble across secret gardens here or ramble further a field to discover the region's picturesque scenery and sandy beaches.
- Soak up Alnwick's atmopshere in Market Place - depending on what time you visit, you may catch the Alnwick Fair or the International Music Festival.