TrailTale

Alnwick Heritage Trail - Town Walk

Step into the enchanting town of Alnwick, where history, legend, and cinematic magic come alive. At its heart lies the iconic Alnwick Castle, famously recognised as the film location for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter movies. Whether you’re a fan of the wizarding world or a history enthusiast, this majestic castle promises to spark your imagination.

For over 700 years, Alnwick Castle has been the ancestral seat of the powerful Percy family, whose influence shaped much of the town’s history. Among its legendary figures is Harry Hotspur, a chivalric hero immortalised in Shakespeare’s plays. As you explore Alnwick, you’ll notice the Percy heraldic symbol—a lion with an arrowhead tail—adorning buildings and landmarks throughout the town.

The River Aln flows serenely beside the castle, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. The river once served the town’s unique “pants”—public water fountains scattered along the streets, each with its own story and historic significance.

This trail takes you beyond the castle gates, revealing the fascinating tales, legends, and landmarks that define Alnwick. Stroll through its cobbled streets, marvel at its historic architecture, and immerse yourself in its vibrant heritage. From the cinematic magic of Hogwarts to the real-life legacy of the Percy family, Alnwick offers a blend of history and fantasy that’s truly unforgettable.

Let this route guide you through the wonders of Alnwick, where every corner reveals a new story, and every step brings you closer to the charm of this remarkable town. Whether you’re here to relive the magic of Harry Potter or uncover the secrets of its storied past, Alnwick promises an experience as spellbinding as its castle’s towering spires.

The walk covers a route that is about 2.2 miles long (3.5 km), from and back to Market Place. It should take you about 2 hours of an easy walk to complete, but there is a steep descent and then ascent to and from the Lion Bridge.

I suggest parking your car in Greenwell Road Car Park, Alnwick, NE66 1HB. Parking is free but you’ll need to purchase a parking disc

The following Points of Interest are covered:

Market Place

Alnwick Market Cross

Alnwick Town Hall

Savings Bank

Dirty Bottles Pub

Harry Hotspur Statue

Portergate Tower

St Michaels Church

Bailiffgate Museum

Alnwick Castle

Lion Bridge

Dorothy Foster Court

Robertson Fountain

White Swan Hotel

Bondgate tower

Alnwick War Memorial

Percy Tenantry Column

Former Train Station

Alnwick Pinfold

The Old Workhouse

Alnwick Corn Exchange

St Paul’s RC Church

The Mechanics Institute

St Michael’s Pant

Northumberland Hall