Alnwick Castle (Regimental Museum)

Alnwick Castle, seat of the Duke of Northumberland, is a well-preserved example of a medieval fortress. The oldest parts of the castle are the fortified walls, dating from the 12th century, which were strengthened in the 14th century by the first Lord Percy and given towers. Around this time the massive main gateway was also built, which gave entry to the outer courtyard.

Must-see attractions nearby:

In the 18th and 19th centuries the castle underwent substantial restoration. Its artistic treasures include French period furniture from the 17th-19th century; Roman antiquities; a collection of paintings including works by Titian, Palma Vecchio, Sebastiano del Piombo, Tintoretto, Canaletto, van Dyck, William Dobson and Turner; valuable porcelain (including a Meissner dinner service in the dining-room); the state coach of the third Duke of Northumberland and an extensive library with 8,000 volumes, including handwritten prayer books and rare examples of early printing.

Alnwick Castle's Abbot's Tower houses the Regimental Museum of Royal Northumberland Fusiliers.

Address: Alnwick Castle, Estates Office, Alnwick NE66 1NQ, England
http://www.alnwickcastle.com

Hours:

April 1 to October 30: 10am-5pm

Tips: Last admission 4:30 pm.

Parking: Free

Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.

Guides: Interpretive sessions sometimes available.

Facilities: Gift shop, Restaurant or food service