Alnwick Castle Courtyard is a must-visit destination for castle enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of history, shopping, and dining experiences. Nestled within the iconic Alnwick Castle, the courtyard transports visitors back in time, allowing them to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of this remarkable landmark.
Shopping at the Courtyard Shop
The Courtyard Shop, located within the cobbled courtyard beyond the Clock Tower, is a treasure trove for visitors. Open daily from 10:00am to 4:30pm, the shop offers a wide selection of items, including books, sweet treats, gifts, toys, collectables, Harry Potter memorabilia, and replica medieval armour. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir to commemorate your visit or a unique gift for a loved one, the Courtyard Shop has something to suit every taste.
Artisans Courtyard: Hands-on Medieval Crafts
The Artisans Courtyard is a captivating area within the Alnwick Castle Courtyard, where visitors can witness and participate in live demonstrations of medieval crafts. Each day, a different demonstration is available, allowing visitors to engage in hands-on activities such as designing medieval tiles, soap making, or creating magic wands. This interactive experience offers a glimpse into the skilled artistry of the past, making it a fun and educational activity for all ages.
Dining at the Courtyard Cafe
The Courtyard Cafe, open from 10:00am to 4:00pm, provides a delightful dining experience within the castle’s walls. Offering a self-service menu, the cafe features a variety of sandwiches, soup, and savoury bites, as well as a selection of cakes and sweet treats. Visitors can enjoy their refreshments in the limited indoor seating area, surrounded by the historic ambiance of the courtyard.
Reviews and Ratings
The Courtyard Cafe has received an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, based on 35 reviews, ranking it #90 out of 116 restaurants in Alnwick. Visitors have praised the cafe for its lovely seating area and reasonably priced food and drinks.
Timings and Hours
To ensure a seamless visit, it’s important to be aware of the operating hours for the various attractions within the Alnwick Castle Courtyard:
| Attraction | Hours |
|---|---|
| Courtyard Shop | 10:00am to 4:30pm (daily) |
| Courtyard Cafe | 10:00am to 4:00pm (daily) |
Additional Information
- Medieval Craft Demonstrations: Visitors can witness and participate in live demonstrations of medieval crafts in the Artisans Courtyard, with a different demonstration available each day.
- Food and Drink Options: The Courtyard Cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, soup, savoury bites, cakes, and sweet treats, along with hot and cold drinks.
Alnwick Castle Courtyard is a captivating destination that allows visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of this iconic castle. Whether you’re browsing the Courtyard Shop, participating in medieval craft demonstrations, or enjoying a bite to eat at the Courtyard Cafe, this unique location is sure to leave a lasting impression on castle enthusiasts.
References:
- https://www.alnwickcastle.com/visit/shopping-at-alnwick-castle
- https://www.alnwickcastle.com/explore/whats-here/artisanscourtyard
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g504032-d4187580-Reviews-Alnwick_Castle-Alnwick_Northumberland_England.html
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g504032-d4104999-Reviews-Courtyard_Cafe-Alnwick_Northumberland_England.html
- https://www.alnwickcastle.com/visit/food-and-drink