Alnwick Castle is a family day out to fire the imagination. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, it is one of the largest inhabited castles in England and is known as The Windsor of the North.

The castle has dominated the town since medieval times and you may recognise it from its recent starring role as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series of films.

But the castle is not just a famous film location and inside its battlements you'll find a host of activities based around Alnwick's rich history.

For example, there is Knight's Quest, where you can learn the fighting skills of a young Harry Hotspur, and Dragon’s Quest where a young swordsman or woman can slay a dreaded fire-breathing monster. Other daily entertainment on offer includes Birds of Prey and archery lessons.

2009 is a special year for the Duke and Duchess as they celebrate 700 years of Percy family ownership of this spectacular medieval stronghold. Over the centuries the Percys have achieved fame and fortune in many ways, from military endeavours to alchemy, archaeology and education. A new exhibition for 2009 tells history through the fascinating personalities of family members.

You will be awestruck by the castle architecture, from the ramparts to the magnificent interiors of the state rooms, library and Renaissance drawing room.

There is also a stunning private art collection including works by Van Dyke and Canaletto. The castle is also home to the Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland with weapons and memorabilia galore.

Alnwick Castle is one of the most stunning castles in Europe. It is the second largest inhabited castle in England and has been home of the Percy's, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland since 1309.

This magnificent medieval castle has been at the centre of many of the country's famous historical events and is the setting for many film and television productions. Harry Potter knows it well; the castle plays home to his school 'Hogwarts'. Visitors come from all over the world to see where many memorable scenes were shot.

There is so much to see and do, impressive architecture, sumptuous state rooms, exhibitions, fine art treasures, stunning landscape, great children's activities, special events, dining and shopping.

As a day out Alnwick Castle really offers something can only be described as very special. Last admission 4.15 p.m.

Nearest major road is the A1. When you reach the Alnwick junction on the A1 you can:
- Follow signs for Alnwick town centre. There are various car parks close to the castle at Greenwell Lane and Baliffgate. The main entrance is at Castle Square opposite Baliffgate
- Or you can follow signs for Alnwick Castle and Garden and Park at Denwick Lane in areas highlighted as the Alnwick Garden car park.

A number of rail services from London, Birmingham, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Stop at Alnmouth, which is 5 miles from Alnwick. Trains are met by the Alnwick rail connection. All passengers have to do is get off the train at Alnmouth for Alnwick railway station and connect to Alnwick town by boarding the 519 bus - a journey of under 15 minutes.
Additionally, the 518 bus service leaves Alnmouth station every hour. A taxi can also be called from the station.