- Play Hard
- 10th Apr 2026
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Alnwick Castle reopens for 2026 with a brand-new exhibition and never-before-seen rooms
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If you’re searching for the best things to do in Northumberland to add to your itinerary this year, Alnwick Castle is a must.
It’s officially back open for the 2026 season, and it’s bigger, bolder and more immersive than ever.
From a major new historical exhibition to the unveiling of hidden, never-before-seen spaces within its famous kitchens, there are plenty of reasons to plan a visit to Alnwick Castle this spring and beyond.
HIGH LIFE NORTH’S TOP TIP: Buy your Alnwick Castle ticket once and enjoy unlimited visits for a full year.
WHAT’S NEW AT ALNWICK CASTLE IN 2026
One new addition for 2026 is a fascinating exhibition, The Shot Heard Round the World: Earl Percy and the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783).
Created to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the exhibition explores the origins of the American Revolutionary War through the story of Earl Percy.
Expect to discover original maps, archival documents and a specially commissioned animation that brings this pivotal moment in history to life. The best part? It’s included with entry, making it a must-see if you’re interested in history or looking for enriching things to do in Alnwick, Northumberland.
STEP INSIDE THE NEVER-SEEN-BEFORE ROOMS
We’re so excited to see that Alnwick Castle is opening up some new areas within the Great Kitchen as part of an ongoing restoration project, which started last year. These spaces have never been accessible to the public before, offering a rare glimpse into the castle’s working life across centuries.
The Butchery
This season, we’ll have our first-ever public access to the historic butchery. Located within a 14th-century tower, this atmospheric room was once used to prepare and store meat for the castle kitchens. We’ll get the chance to see original features, including a central workbench, salting basins and overhead hooks where meat would have been hung. A mysterious machine, still unidentified by historians, adds an extra layer of intrigue. This space has remained closed for centuries, making its opening a significant moment in the history of Alnwick Castle.
Cook’s Room
The newly recreated Cook’s Room offers us a more personal insight into castle life during the Victorian period. Inspired by the work of John Wells Thorpe, who served as cook to four Dukes of Northumberland, the room reflects both the professional and private sides of his role.
Designed as a combined office and sitting room, it was where menus were planned and large-scale events organised. One notable example includes the preparation for a five-day celebration catering to more than 9,000 guests. Today, we can sit at the desk, explore historical recipes and documents and immerse ourselves in the day-to-day running of the castle kitchens.
OUTDOOR CINEMA AND EVENTS RETURN TO ALNWICK CASTLE
Beyond the interiors, the castle grounds once again host a full programme of events, reinforcing its reputation as one of the top things to do in Northumberland.
Following a sell-out run last year, outdoor cinema returns with a show-stopping lineup, including Andrea Bocelli in Concert, Dirty Dancing, Queen: Greatest Hits, Wicked Sing-Along, and Star Wars: A New Hope. Watching a film on the grounds of Alnwick Castle offers a unique experience, with the historic backdrop creating an atmosphere unlike any other.
Throughout the season, prepare to be entertained by falconry displays, live performances, talks and interactive sessions. Family-friendly activities are a major highlight, particularly during school holidays, making the castle a strong choice if you’re searching for ‘things to do in Newcastle with kids’ within easy reach of the city.
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO ALNWICK CASTLE
A visit to Alnwick would not be complete without exploring its most iconic landmark. With a combination of new exhibitions, expanded access and a packed events calendar, Alnwick Castle continues to stand out as one of the leading visitor attractions in the region.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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