The Alnwick Garden

Since my first visit to The Alnwick Garden, which was just after it's officially opening many years ago, I have been completely enchanted by it's beauty and vision. That first glimpse of the Grand Cascade through the entrance gates is just magical.

Just ten years ago, The Alnwick Garden Site was derelict and forgotten. Then the Duchess of Northumberland imagined creating a beautiful public garden for families to enjoy, and from her bold vision, The Alnwick Garden project began. The

Alnwick Garden is now a vibrant place, with beautifully landscaped gardens, magnificent architecture and unique features, all brought to life with water. It's a garden for gardeners, with a design that looks to the future. From the country's largest collection of European plants in the Ornamental Garden to the very unusual plants found in the Poison Garden, there's an enormous variety of plants and trees.

Many interesting planting styles can be seen during a walk around the landscape, and the gardeners are always happy to chat and to answer questions. It's also a garden for families, with lots of chance to get wet and play! Collect water in the mini tractors, paddle in the rills, see the many ways water can move in the Serpent Garden and dodge the Grand Cascade's jets. Play hide and seek in the Bamboo Labyrinth, and bounce on the world's largest Tree house's wobbly rope bridges. The Alnwick Garden is a unique educational and truly inspirational place, testament to the Duchess's vision and commitment. If you only visit one attraction during your visit, make it The Alnwick Garden.

Postcode for your SatNav: NE66 1YU

Visit their Website

Getting There

Alnwick is easily accessible by car, it is just moments from the A1, the main road that cuts through the County from North to South. There is ample parking in the Town Centre, with the main public car parks located behind the main shopping area (turn right at the Playhouse, just before going through Bondgate Tower when entering the town from the South). Car Parks are clearly marked on our interactive map of the town centre.

The town is also easily reached by bus. There is a bus station in the town centre, operated by Arriva. Alnwick lies on the County's main bus route from Newcastle and Morpeth up to Berwick, so services run frequently. See the Arriva North East website for timetables and routes. The town is no longer served by rail, the nearest Train Station is Alnmouth, approximately 5 miles east. The original Victorian train station has now been converted into one of the largest second hand book shops in the UK (see attractions). There is however talk of a new rail line re-linking Alnwick the the Great Northern Line at Alnmouth, but these things always take time! Local Taxi companies include The Yellow Taxi, a genuine London taxi that seats up to six people.