Alnwick Castle

ALNWICK CASTLE, home of the Duke of Northumberland, is the second largest inhabited Castle in England after Windsor and has been in the possession of the Percys, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland, since 1309. The earliest parts of the present castle were erected by Yvo de Vescy, the first Norman Baron of Alnwick who became the owner of the town soon after 1096. The rugged medieval exterior belies the richness of the interior, refurbished in the classical style of the Italian Renaissance. This replaces the gothic decoration carried out by Robert Adam in the 18th century. The Castle houses an exquisite collection of art treasures, including the finest examples of Italian paintings in the north of England with works by other great artists including Van Dyck and Turner. In addition to fine English and French furniture and ornately carved wooden ceilings, the Castle also houses one of the country's most important collections of early Meissen porcelain. Other attractions include the Percy State Coach, the dungeon, the gun terrace and the gardens, which offer peaceful walks and superb views over the surrounding countryside. The Duchess of Northumberland's Millennium project is the restoration of the formal Italian Gardens created during the 19th century by the 4th Duke. Historic Houses Association Member. OPENING TIMES: SUMMER: Maundy Thursday - end September Daily: 11am - 5pm Last admission 4.15pm. Open all BHs. Private tours and functions by arrangement. WINTER: October - Easter Pre-booked parties only.