The Best Kept Secret

Location:
United Kingdom, Alnwick

Off-the-beaten-path, historical, peaceful

By Stephanie

Rain. Fog. London. Princess Diana. Fish and chips. Theater. Shakespeare. Harry Potter. These words, people, and phrases are often pictured in one's mind when thinking about England and the United Kingdom, all of which add to the mystique and romance of this small island country.

Nestled near the border of Scotland and just inland from the vastness of the North Sea in the county of Northumberland, lies a small market town, steeped in tradition and history, yet with a modern uniqueness all its own: the quaint village of Alnwick (pronounded "ANN-ick"). Known for the castle of the same name that lies at the edge of the town, Alnwick if just off the A1 motorway that connects London to Edinburgh.

Upon arrival, Alnwick (which lies just north of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England and south of Edinburgh, Scotland) provides, almost instantly, the feeling as if you have been transported back in time. The castle, with its museums, centuries old artifacts, artwork and architecture almost overshadow the modern conveniences the town and castle have to offer their tourists and visitors. Staring out over the fields and pastures, past the river Aln that lies beneath the castle walls, you could almost believe and feel like you were living in a time that has since passed on.

Like Alnwick, many other villages dot the countryside in Northumberland, many of which sit directly on the edge of the North Sea, awaiting exploration. Castles, in ruin and left in tact, beautifully litter the countryside, leaving behind a reminder of the political and religious history Northumberland has to offer.

Dustanburgh, Bamburgh, Warkworth, Alnmouth, Amble, Seahouses, Craster and Holy Island are just a few of the towns and villages so unique in their own history and culture and only a short drive from each other in this untouched and unspoiled part of England.

For those looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of London, York, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow and the like, Northumberland offers a panoramic vision of the sea, the countryside, the villages and the visible history that lies all across the rolling hills and valleys of this remarkable and pure part of England ... and the world!

Further Information

Other helpful information: Considering it is not a major city or point of interest in England, it is quite easy to get to and find. There are a number of airports in the region, the closest being in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne (just 40 miles to the south). The train runs nearby (it stops just 4 miles away at the train station labeled Alnmouth-For-Alnwick) and buses are in constant rotation from Newcastle and other cities and villages nearby.

The local businesses, pubs, and restaurants are also very used to American tourists. Alnwick Castle has housed an American study abroad program in Alnwick for almost thirty years, so the local citizens are very used to American visitors.

Must see/do at this place: Alnwick Castle is a vast, and still lived in (by the Percy family) and in spectacular condition, castle on the edge of town. There are various museums and activities within the castle walls, as well as a restaurant and gift shop. The newly constructed and popular Alnwick Gardens lie just behind the castle in the back.

Hulne Park, just down Bailiffgate road from the castle, is a stunning park, providing peacefulness and amazing scenery.

You should avoid here: In my experience living in and returning to visit Alnwick, there is nothing I would avoid. The residents are friendly and welcoming, the restaurants provide a unique and cozy atmosphere and the pubs are traditional and warm. I would advise staying to experience all this village has to offer in terms of location, scenery and hospitality.