Alnwick Art - Castle and Gardens

Alnwick Art - Castle and Gardens

I love Alnwick! A small, yet perfect, market town in Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle itself is both a Castle and Country House and is the seat of the 12th Duke of Northumberland. The castle was founded way back in the late 11th century by a Norman nobleman Ivo de Vesica from Calvados in Normandy. It is a beautiful grade 1 listed building.

The historic Alnwick Castle in Northumberland combines magnificent medieval architecture and elegant Italianate State Rooms. It is currently the second largest inhabited castle in the country boasting over 950 years of history. A fabulous place to explore.

Alnwick Castle aka Hogwarts 

Even if you haven't visited the Castle before you may recognise it! Alnwick Castle has also been known as "Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry". It was used as the backdrop during the 2001 Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and the 2002 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

This is where Harry Potter and other students learned to fly their broomsticks and learned to play Quidditch. Thankfully no real damange was caused when Ron crashed the family's car in to the Inner Bailey!

Alnwick Castle by Emily Ward

I have painted this Northumberland treasure nestled amongst bright yellow flowers and rich green grass, creating an uplifting, warm feel to it with the vibrant colours of spring.

Alnwick Gardens

A day to Alnwick must also include a visit to Alnwick Gardens. The garden is described as one of the world's most ambitious gardens. You may need a day or two to see the whole garden. The gardens were designed by Jacques and Peter Wirtz and has so much to see and do. Three of my favourites include:

The Cherry Blossom Orchard

The Grand Cascade

The Tree House

Do let me know if you visit and which part you loved the most!