The Windsor of the north (Alnwick Castle)

Member Name: Picasso

Product:	Alnwick Castle
Date:	20/01/02 (382 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A fantastic castle

Disadvantages: Work ongoing in the grounds

Alnwick Castle is known as the "Windsor of the north". It is situated in the county of Northumberland (my adopted county) and is the county's largest inhabited castle. Home to the Duke of Northumberland; his family, The Percy's have lived there since 1309. It's a magnificent border fortress and dates back to the 11th century, having been built after the Norman Conquest. The castle has survived many battles, but now peacefully dominates the picturesque market town of Alnwick (pronounced Annick).

The castle's landscaped gardens were designed by Northumbrian Capability Brown and are well worth a visit. During the last year however, the grounds and gardens have been undergoing a major make over. The project is being supervised by none other than our own Charlie Dimmock and will feature the biggest water feature in the country. Current visitors can see Charlie at work. The project is scheduled to open in six months time, meanwhile visitors can watch the progress.

Inside the castle you will find it furnished in palatial Renaissance style, with paintings by van Dyke, Titian and Canaletto. Other attractions include the Percy stagecoach, the dungeon and the gun terrace. Younger visitors will be interested to know that several scenes from the film Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone were shot here, however they won't find any moving staircases!

As with all castles, Alnwick provides excellent views over the town and surrounding countryside. It is said that on a clear day you can see no less than seven castles.

Open to the public from Easter to late October, if you venture into Northumberland - a visit to the castle is a must.

Summary: A castle in Northumberland