The Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is a captivating architectural feature that has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors to the iconic Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England. As a renowned filming location for the Harry Potter series, this impressive structure has become a must-see destination for castle enthusiasts and movie fans alike.
Overview of the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch
The Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is part of the larger Lion Bridge, which spans the river in three arches with two intermediate piers. Designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam in the Castle Style, the arch features a stunning sculpture of the Percy Lion, created by John Knowles in 1773. This iconic symbol is not only a representation of the Percy family but also a part of the crest of the achievement of arms of Northumberland County Council.
The Harry Potter Connection
One of the most captivating aspects of the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is its connection to the Harry Potter franchise. The arch was used as a filming location for the movies, serving as a gateway to Hogwarts, leading towards Hagrid’s cabin and the Forbidden Forest. This magical association has only added to the allure of the structure, drawing in legions of Harry Potter fans from around the world.
Visiting the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch
Visiting the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is a truly enchanting experience. The castle’s opening hours vary by season, with the castle being open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM from April to October, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from November to March. Ticket prices range from £14.50 to £17.50 for adults and £7.50 to £9.50 for children, depending on the time of year.
The castle’s address is Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland NE66 1NG, England, making it easily accessible to visitors. The Lion Arch is considered one of the most Instagrammable spots at the castle, making it a popular location for photography enthusiasts.
Exploring the History and Significance of the Lion Arch
The Lion Arch is not just a visually stunning structure; it also has a rich history and significance. The bridge it is a part of, the Lion Bridge, replaced an earlier bridge that was destroyed in a flood in 1770. The Percy Lion, which adorns the arch, is a symbol of the Percy family and is also a part of the crest of the achievement of arms of Northumberland County Council.
For those interested in delving deeper into the history and significance of the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch, the Duke of Northumberland and Dan Snow offer a podcast tour called “Lions of the North,” which explores the castle’s history and the Percy lineage.
Conclusion
The Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is a true gem of the Northumberland region, captivating visitors with its architectural beauty, historical significance, and magical connection to the Harry Potter franchise. Whether you’re a castle enthusiast, a movie fan, or simply someone who appreciates stunning and iconic landmarks, the Alnwick Castle Lion Arch is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression.
References:
- https://www.alnwickcastle.com/blog/uks-most-instagrammable-castle
- https://sites.scran.ac.uk/ada/documents/castle_style/alnwick/lionbridge.htm
- https://www.alnwickcastle.com/explore/on-screen/harry-potter.