Perched along the River Aln and framed by rolling pastures

Perched high above the Northumbrian coast

Alnwick Castle is a Norman fortress whose construction began around 1096 and later became the seat of the Percy family when Henry Percy purchased and expanded it in 1309. As the home of the Dukes of Northumberland, it evolved from a border stronghold into a family residence and today welcomes visitors to explore its medieval walls and sweeping lawns. The grounds blend history with cinematic fame; manicured lawns, ancient towers and outer walls have doubled as Hogwarts' exterior in the early Harry Potter films. Visitors can wander through courtyards, embattled walls and the wide green bailey while soaking up views over the River Aln. Alnwick Castle remains one of Britain's most visited castles, offering a mix of heritage tours, broomstick lessons and film talks. The Outer Bailey of Alnwick Castle was used in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone for flying lessons with Madam Hooch; Harry and his classmates learn to mount and control broomsticks and practice the rules of Quidditch there. The courtyards and inner bailey appear when Hogwarts students move between classes, and the Inner Bailey is where Harry and Ron crash-land the Weasley flying car in Chamber of Secrets. A well-known shot shows Hagrid dragging a huge Christmas tree through the courtyard archway en route to the Great Hall during a snowy holiday scene.