BAMBURGH SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
In the Footsteps of the Percys: A Day at Alnwick and Warkworth
An 8-hour small-group tour from Bamburgh that visits the Percy family strongholds — Alnwick and Warkworth — useful for planning a full-day historical excursion.
In the Footsteps of the Percys: A Day at Alnwick and Warkworth.
This is an eight‑hour, small‑group sightseeing tour that traces the power and rivalries of the Percy family, visiting Alnwick Castle — the Percys' current residence, famed for its poison garden and use in cinema as Hogwarts — and Warkworth Castle, the original Percy fortress set in a bend of the Coquet River.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
The Percys: Power, Revolt and Border Warfare
Both Alnwick and Warkworth were seats of the Percy family, the Earls of Northumberland, who grew influential enough to revolt against Henry IV; their history is bound to border conflicts with Scotland and a long rivalry with the Douglas family.
Alnwick Castle: A Working Residence and Tourist Draw
Alnwick remains the Percys' residence and has been developed into a major tourism attraction, notable for its poison garden and for appearances in film as Hogwarts.
Warkworth’s Picturesque Stronghold
Warkworth was the Percys’ original fortress and sits picturesquely in a bend of the Coquet River, offering a contrast in scale and setting to Alnwick.
What the day feels like
A full day among castles, gardens and medieval stories
Over an eight‑hour day you move between two of the Percys' most important sites, spending time inside Alnwick — including its celebrated poison garden and cinematic locations — and taking in Warkworth’s original fortress and riverside setting to understand the family’s role on the Anglo‑Scottish border.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an eight‑hour tour; guests are collected from their accommodation or a pre-arranged pick-up point on the morning of the tour at 9 am.
All‑weather clothing and walking shoes are required; customers must have a contact mobile/cell phone for day‑of communication. A camera is suggested.
Entry to the castles and lunch are included in the full‑day tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour is 8 hours in length.
Where does the tour start?
The operator collects guests from their accommodation or a pre-arranged collection point on the morning of the tour at 9 am.
Is entry to the castles included?
Yes. Entry to the castles is included on this tour.
Is lunch provided?
Yes. Lunch is included on this whole‑day tour.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes. The tour is for guests aged 18 and over.
What should I bring with me?
Bring a contact mobile/cell phone for day‑of communication, all‑weather clothing and walking shoes; a camera is suggested.
Are private tours available?
Private options are available; contact Alex at [email protected] for details.