The historic market town of Alnwick is home to a variety of independent shops, restaurants and of course, the famous Castle and Gardens.
For visitors to Northumberland, Alnwick is a great base from which to explore the coastline, countryside and historic sites of the region.
We have rounded up the best places to eat, drink, stay and experience on your next visit to Alnwick.
The Cookie Jar
The Cookie Jar is a firm favourite for Alnwick locals and visitors alike. With stunning rooms available for guests, their Bistro overlooks the grounds which include a two-tier terrace, garden and large lawn. Serving up simple, locally sourced food, as well as Afternoon Tea and sweet treats for on the go adventures, The Cookie Jar has something for everyone.
Joiners Arms
In the nearby coastal village of Newton-by-the-Sea sits 5* pub and inn, The Joiners Arms. Designed with home in mind, this is a true countryside pub offering country food and drink with stunning views across to the North Sea and Newton beach which is just steps away from the pub’s large beer garden.
Adam and Eve
As well as serving up delicious food, this popular venue in Alnwick boasts a well-stocked bar and spacious beer garden, ideal for enjoying the warm weather. Hosting local spirit makers and breweries, the bar includes bottles of Alnwick Gold and Ad Gefrin whisky. Ideal for a nightcap or drink with friends, the Adam and Eve team are friendly and welcoming, and allow dogs too.
https://adamandevealnwick.co.uk/
The Dirty Bottles
An iconic freehouse in the heart of Alnwick, The Dirty Bottles is a popular spot in the town. From classic cocktails to Harry Potter themed potions, the stylish bar has something for everyone. Set within a building dating from the 1600s, the bar has been extensively renovated to create a contemporary space suitable for afternoon drinks or a night on the town.
https://www.thedirtybottles.co.uk/about/
The Hog’s Head Inn
A silver award-winner in the North East England Tourism Awards, The Hog’s Head Inn takes its name from the tavern in the Harry Potter books. Owned by The Inn Collection Group, the pub with rooms co taking the tourism industry by storm, the venue is pet friendly and offers free parking, a bar and lounge with beer garden and cosy bedrooms for a staycation, weekend break or overnight stay.
Bailiffgate Hotel
This hotly anticipated hotel is set to open its doors in Autumn of this year and is located in the historic former premises of the Duchess High School. Overlooking the Barbican entrance of Alnwick Castle, the hotel will feature 48 luxury bedrooms, suites and apartments, as well as a stylish bar and restaurant and a private dining space for family parties or corporate events.
Alnwick Castle, Gardens and Lilidorei
Arguably Alnwick’s most popular tourist destination, Alnwick’s Castle, Gardens and children’s adventure playground welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The backdrop for the first two Harry Potter films, the Castle sees visitors from all over the world coming to explore the Norman stronghold and take in the vast gardens, designed by the current Duchess of Northumberland at the turn of the century. The annual cherry blossom fortnight turns the gardens into a field of white and pink. Lilidorei is the newest addition to the site and is a magical world of fantasy and fairies for children and families.
Ad Gefrin
Located in the nearby town of Wooler, Ad Gefrin is a museum and whisky distillery telling the story of the historic Anglo Saxon royal court which sat on a nearby site in the Northumberland countryside. The immersive museum includes hundreds of pieces of the court that have been recovered for the site and the distillery and restaurant serve up delicious food and the opportunity to learn about the whisky making process from expert guides.
The Accidental Bookshop
A fairly recent addition to Alnwick’s shopping district, The Accidental Bookshop boasts the tallest bookshelf in the UK. Selling books by local authors as well as national and international bestsellers, this stunning bookshop is the perfect way to while away a few hours. The staff are friendly and full of literary knowledge and frequently host events with authors.
Jobsons of Alnwick
Having recently come into new ownership, Jobsons of Alnwick has been a staple in the town for decades. The store stocks beautiful clothing for men, women and children from brands such as Barbour, Penelope Chivers, Birkenstock and Ducky Zebra. One of the most popular sections is the pocket money area, where children from the town as well as visitors enjoy picking out toys and games.
https://www.jobsonsofalnwick.co.uk/
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