Looking for quirky stays in the UK? Well, this one might be right up your alley.
Going to Alnwick in Northumberland was like stepping back into an age of British quintessential-ness combined with some modern features… I’m sure this place would capture your heart.
Why visit Alnwick in Northumberland?
Northumberland is home to more castles than any other British county.
Alnwick Castle is often referred to as ‘Windsor of the North’ and is one of the most iconic ones.
The filming of Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of secrets have taken place at the Alnwick Castle and it’s certainly a place to hit if you haven’t yet had your broomstick training or looking for a refresher course.
Not a fan of castles? No problem, head to the Alnwick gardens, whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not it will have something for you.
They have a poison garden that showcases many poisonous and medicinal plants with tales of their use over time in healing or killing people.
The gardens are lovely for a stroll, a picnic, or some Instagram-able shots.
You’ll need to prebook your tickets for both of those attractions online ahead of your visit.
Other attractions to visit:
Bailiffgate Museum, home to many exhibits and heritage pieces that showcases the history of Alnwick and Northumberland.
Howick Hall Gardens; the birth place of Earl Grey tea.
Brizlee tower; where you can catch a panoramic view of the surrounding estates.
Alnmouth giant sandy beach.
Finally, since Alnwick is one of the least populated regions in England; it is one of the best towns to visit for stargazing. Head to Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, a 562 Sq mile zone free of light pollution, the largest of its kind in Europe.
Where to stay in Alnwick?
I stayed at the White Swan and would be staying there again when I visit Alnwick in Northumberland again.
A beautiful 300-year-old baroque coaching inn that happens to be 3 minutes walking distance away from the Alnwick Castle and Gardens (talk about a convenient location).
One of its most beautiful features is the dining room that is the exact same dining room the Olympic ship had.
When Olympic (Titanic’s sister ship) was retired the dining room was auctioned and the owner of the White Swan purchased it and brought it back to the hotel and had it installed there… When you walk into that dining room you get transported to the charm and elegance of that era.
The wood paneling, the stained glass windows, mirrors, and carved ceilings from the transatlantic ocean liner Olympic, Titanic’s near-identical sister ship will definitely get you feeling the good feels.
Other places to stay at:
The Hog’s Head Inn, The Black Swan, The Cookie Jar, and The Dirty Bottles Inn all capture the area’s charm and will add quirkiness to your stay.
Where to eat in Alnwick?
I personally recommend dining at the Olympic suit at The White Swan. You will need to make a reservation ahead of time even if you are a hotel resident, it does get booked up pretty quick.
The Dirty Bottles Inn is another place that I would recommend, the myth has it that the owner was placing the bottle out in the window as a form of advertisement when a spell fell upon him and he died. The whispers are that the bottles are cursed and whoever touches them will meet his demise.
Since then they have remained in the windows untouched for over 200 years … I am not sure how deadly the bottles are but I can tell you that the food is to die for!
Check out the menu ahead of time for some special items that need a 48-hour request. You won’t be disappointed.
If you are looking for a really special and super quirky place to dine at trying the Treehouse restaurant at the Alnwick Gardens. A treetop diner with branches coming through the floor, ropy bridges, and a cozy log fire. Whether it is afternoon tea, a meal, or a special event the venue will not disappoint.