Alnwick Castle, the Northumberland Coast & the Borders
Some dream of kings and queens, while others imagine epic sieges. But many of us conjure up worlds of wizards and dragons. Alnwick Castle is a playground for your imagination that mixes the make-believe with true history. It’s posed as a plush home for powerful earls and dukes starred as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies. Let your imagination soar on this trip through the historic towns, fascinating tales, and beautiful views of the borders of Scotland and England.
Highlights
- Kelso Abbey
- Northumberland Coastline
- River Tweed
- Alnwick Castle
- The Poison Garden
- The Scottish Borders
What's included
- English Speaking Expert Local Guide
- Travel in Luxury 16 Seat Mini Coach
- 30lb (14kg) Luggage Allowance
- Off the Beaten Track Locations
- Flights, Transfers and Accommodation
- Food & Drink
Overview
Kelso Abbey
A medieval monastery founded by King David I in the 1100s, it now stands in ruin, but showcases the grandeur of Scottish monastic architecture.
Northumberland Coastline
Endless beaches, hidden bays, rolling dunes, and ancient castles—the Northumberland coastline is a protected National Landscape of stunning beauty.
River Tweed
Meandering through the Scottish Borders, this scenic river winds past historic abbeys, woollen mills, and offers world-renowned salmon fishing.
Alnwick Castle
Seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland and built after the Norman conquest, Alnwick Castle is now used as a set for both Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.
The Poison Garden
Filled exclusively with around 100 toxic plants, enter if you dare on an optional guided tour.
The Scottish Borders
Take a journey through this incredible scenic part of the UK on your tour and simply take in the views.
As you leave Edinburgh and journey south into the Scottish Borders, you enter the land where rolling hills embrace a rich history and vibrant culture. This picturesque region is a tapestry of lush landscapes, dotted with ancient abbeys and charming villages that whisper tales of the past. While the area may appear serene today, it has witnessed its share of conflicts and border skirmishes throughout the centuries.
You stop in Kelso, where you explore this handsome town and what is thought to be Scotland's largest market square. You also see the ruins of Kelso Abbey, a reminder of the many ancient conflicts between Scotland and England.
Continuing south, you cross the border into Northumberland, an English county renowned for its dramatic coastlines, historic towns, lush countryside, and ancient castles.
From ancient times through the Middle Ages, this region has been inhabited by various groups, each contributing to the cultural and political tapestry that defines this distinctive part of England.
Next is the enchanting town of Alnwick. You can spend your time wandering the cobbled streets, soaking in the echoes of the past, sampling local specialties, or exploring the vast treasures of the UK's largest second-hand bookstore. You might also choose to visit Alnwick Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Northumberland. This imposing stronghold captivates with opulent interiors filled with antique furniture and exquisite works of art. As you explore the courtyard or library, you may recognize the castle as a stand-in for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.
We'll continue our journey along the stunning Northumberland Coast, making some photo stops along the way.
Say goodbye to England as we return to Scotland, traveling through the picturesque Scottish Borders into East Lothian and the town of Dunbar. This charming place is the birthplace of John Muir, the renowned naturalist and conservationist. You'll have a brief opportunity to explore the town before we resume our journey back to Edinburgh.
You return to Edinburgh at approximately 6.15pm.
Additional Information
Optional Extras
Entry to Alnwick Castle & Garden - Broomstick Training experience may be available on the day
