The Dirty Bottles: Quirky Pub, Hotel & Cocktail Bar in Historic Alnwick
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Dirty Bottles is a distinctive pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel located in the heart of Alnwick, Northumberland. Housed in a charming historic building on Narrowgate, it offers a warm, quirky atmosphere with characterful rooms, hearty pub fare, and a lively bar scene. Known for its friendly staff and generous portions, it blends traditional charm with subtle Harry Potter-inspired touches, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors.
A brief summary to The Dirty Bottles
- The Olde Cross, 32 Narrowgate, Alnwick, NE66 1JG, GB
- +441665606193
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book rooms in advance, especially themed ones like the Dark Quarters, to ensure availability.
- Try the Sunday roast or steak and ale pie for classic hearty pub meals.
- Visit the cocktail bar in the evening for creative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
- Be prepared for possible wait times during busy periods, especially on weekends.
- Explore nearby Alnwick Castle and Gardens to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Dirty Bottles location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Dirty Bottles
A Historic Gem in Alnwick’s Town Centre
Nestled on Narrowgate, The Dirty Bottles occupies a notable old building that exudes character and charm. Its history is woven into the fabric of Alnwick’s bustling market town, offering guests and patrons a chance to immerse themselves in a quintessentially English pub experience. The name itself hints at a colorful past, and the landlord’s story involving bottles adds a layer of local folklore and personality that enriches the venue’s appeal.A Unique Blend of Pub, Bar, and Boutique Hotel
More than just a pub, The Dirty Bottles doubles as a cocktail bar and a boutique hotel, providing a multi-faceted hospitality experience. The hotel rooms are praised for their quirky, atmospheric design, featuring tasteful period touches and subtle nods to the Harry Potter universe without overwhelming the senses. Rooms such as the ‘Dark Quarters’ and ‘Adventurers’ offer cozy comfort with modern amenities, including luxurious bathrooms and plush bedding, making it a memorable stay for fans and casual visitors alike.Hearty Food and Inviting Atmosphere
The Dirty Bottles serves up generous portions of traditional pub fare, including favorites like steak and ale pie and Sunday roasts. The food is widely regarded as hearty and satisfying, with well-cooked dishes that offer good value. The bar complements this with a broad selection of beers, wines, and creative cocktails, including mocktails for non-drinkers. The atmosphere inside is warm and inviting, with a lively buzz during peak times and a friendly, welcoming staff who contribute to the venue’s convivial spirit.A Hub for Socializing and Local Culture
The venue is a popular social hub, attracting a diverse crowd from families to couples and solo travelers. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Alnwick Castle and Gardens nearby. The staff’s friendliness and the pub’s quirky interior, featuring period portraits and vintage decor, create an engaging environment that encourages conversation and relaxation. Special touches like cocktail pitchers and themed rooms add to the overall charm.Considerations for Visitors
While the Dirty Bottles enjoys a strong reputation, some visitors note occasional slow service during busy periods due to understaffing. The quirky room layouts, while atmospheric, may pose practical challenges for long stays, such as limited storage space. Nonetheless, the venue’s unique character, combined with its excellent location and quality offerings, make it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic and memorable experience in Alnwick.Embracing Alnwick’s Spirit with Modern Comforts
The Dirty Bottles successfully marries the historic charm of its setting with contemporary comforts and hospitality. Its commitment to quality food, friendly service, and distinctive style ensures it remains a beloved fixture in the town. Whether you’re stopping by for a drink, enjoying a meal, or staying overnight, the venue offers a rich slice of Northumberland’s cultural and social life wrapped in a quirky, welcoming package.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warkworth Hermitage
9.4 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Beadnell Harbour
15.9 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions
20.0 km
Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
20.7 km
Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.
Lady's Well
25.5 km
Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
Search Northumberland, Things to do in Northumberland
26.8 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culture of Northumberland, the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
Morpeth Clock Tower
27.5 km
Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
Hunkleton stone
28.7 km
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Gefrin
30.9 km
Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Gefrin, an archaeological site near Wooler, revealing the ancient past of Northumberland.
Winter's Gibbet
31.8 km
Explore the haunting site of Winter's Gibbet, a stark relic of 18th-century justice and local legend in Northumberland's moorlands.
Whalton Manor Gardens Northumberland
32.4 km
Discover the enchanting Whalton Manor Gardens in Northumberland, a botanical retreat filled with diverse plant life and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.
Ford & Etal Estates
33.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Ford & Etal Estates, a perfect escape in Northumberland's countryside.
Lady Waterford Hall
33.8 km
Discover the artistic heritage of Ford at Lady Waterford Hall, a unique museum showcasing the legacy of Lady Catherine Waterford.
Hole in The Wall
35.9 km
Historic coastal landmark in Blyth featuring a unique hole framing stunning beach views and easy beach access.
Northumberland National Park
36.0 km
Explore the vast natural beauty and rich history of Northumberland National Park, a breathtaking escape for adventurers and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Alnwick Market
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Alnwick with its historic market offering local crafts, fresh produce, and a lively community atmosphere.
Alnwick Castle
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting history and stunning architecture of Alnwick Castle, a must-visit destination in Northumberland for every traveler.
Hotspur Tower
0.4 km
Explore the captivating history of Hotspur Tower, a stunning medieval landmark in Alnwick, rich with stories and breathtaking views.
The Alnwick Garden
0.6 km
Discover a visionary garden where water dances, poisonous plants tell stories, and nature blooms in Northumberland’s contemporary oasis.
Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden
0.7 km
Discover the magical Christmas-themed play village of Lilidorei nestled within the enchanting Alnwick Garden in Northumberland.
Barter Books
0.8 km
Discover a treasure trove of secondhand books and literary charm in a historic Victorian station at Barter Books, Alnwick.
Hulne Priory
3.1 km
Explore Hulne Priory, England’s earliest Carmelite friary nestled in scenic Hulne Park, rich with medieval ruins, history, and cinematic charm.
Beaches
6.8 km
A serene sandy beach and charming coastal village in Northumberland, perfect for tranquil walks, wildlife, and rich maritime heritage.
Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum
7.4 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and a vast arboretum at Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum, a botanical treasure on the Northumberland coast.
Sugar Sands
7.9 km
Discover Sugar Sands, a tranquil Northumberland beach with Mediterranean charm, perfect for peaceful walks and nature lovers.
Edlingham Castle
8.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a 14th-century fortified manor house set in tranquil Northumberland countryside, free to visit year-round.
Northumberland coastal path
9.0 km
Explore 100 kilometers of stunning coastline, historic castles, and vibrant wildlife on the iconic Northumberland Coast Path.
Northumberland Coast Path
9.4 km
Explore the wild beauty and historic castles of England’s breathtaking Northumberland Coast on this iconic hiking trail.
Warkworth Castle
9.9 km
Explore the majestic ruins and rich history of Warkworth Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning river and coastal views in Northumberland.
Warkworth Beach
10.0 km
Discover the tranquil sands and scenic dunes of Warkworth Beach, a peaceful Northumberland coastal escape with free parking and natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Dirty Bottles
0.0 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
0.2 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Adam and Eve
0.2 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Sonnet Restaurant
0.4 km
A 14-course poetic journey through Northumberland’s finest produce, served in an intimate, literary-inspired Alnwick dining room.
The Treehouse Restaurant
0.7 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
Restaurant Italia
6.7 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Alnmouth’s charming seaside village, nestled within the welcoming Hope & Anchor Hotel.
The Hope & Anchor Hotel
6.7 km
Cozy coastal retreat with modern rooms, Italian dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Alnmouth village.
The Whittling House
6.7 km
A cosy boutique hotel and acclaimed seafood restaurant in Alnmouth, blending rustic charm with coastal elegance and warm hospitality.
Bistro 23
6.7 km
Intimate family-run bistro in scenic Alnmouth serving fresh, local seafood and Northumberland specialties with warm hospitality.
The Cook & Barker Inn
8.2 km
A warm, stylish country pub near Morpeth, serving excellent food and offering comfortable rooms in the heart of Northumberland.
The Jolly Fisherman Inn
9.7 km
A charming coastal inn in Craster serving fresh, traditional seafood with stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Boathouse
11.9 km
Fresh Northumberland seafood served with stunning coastal views in a charming maritime setting.
Lilly’s Landing
12.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and stunning harbor views at Lilly’s Landing, Amble’s charming coastal restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
JASPERS BISTRO
12.0 km
A cozy seafood haven in Amble delivering exquisite, locally sourced dishes with personal service and refined charm.
The Fish Shack
12.0 km
Rustic seafood dining on Amble’s harbour, serving fresh local catch with stunning views and cozy charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A World Of Difference
0.1 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
0.1 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
Marilyn & Melrose
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
0.2 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Robinson's
0.3 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
Notes of Northumberland
1.5 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Willowburn Retail Park
1.7 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Jane & Harry
6.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Aln Gift Shop
6.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Aln Gift Shop, a cozy boutique nestled in the scenic village of Alnmouth, Northumberland.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
9.6 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
A Touch of Love
11.9 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt souvenirs at 'A Touch of Love' in Amble, a charming gift shop celebrating local craftsmanship.
Glamble Gifts & Accessories
11.9 km
Discover exquisite cosmetics and charming accessories in the scenic setting of Amble Harbour Village’s boutique gem.
Raggy Dolls Limited
11.9 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
Elements Art & Craft Gallery
17.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures and local artistry at Elements Art & Craft Gallery in the heart of Rothbury, Northumberland.
Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury
17.3 km
Discover quality walking apparel at Otterburn Mill Shop, Rothbury’s trusted destination for outdoor clothing in Northumberland’s scenic market town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Swan Alnwick
0.0 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
Harry's Bar
0.0 km
A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.
The Queens Head
0.2 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
0.4 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
The Sun Inn
6.7 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
The Red Lion Inn
6.7 km
Charming coastal pub and cozy B&B in Alnmouth, famed for wood-fired pizzas, local ales, and warm hospitality just steps from the beach.
Coast & Country
10.5 km
A tranquil bar and shop nestled in Northumberland’s Percy Wood Golf and Country Club, perfect for relaxing with a drink after outdoor adventures.
The Lounge Bar
12.0 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Joiners Arms
12.7 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Foxes Den
13.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly micro pub in Felton’s riverside basement, famed for real ales and friendly local charm.
The Northumberland Arms
13.2 km
Charming country pub and boutique hotel in Felton offering fresh local cuisine, luxury rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Granby Inn
13.5 km
A welcoming historic village inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and classic pub charm in a tranquil countryside setting.
Anglers Arms
15.6 km
A charming four-star country inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
16.1 km
A lively Wild West-themed bar and grill in Morpeth offering casual dining, sports entertainment, and a pet-friendly atmosphere within Felmoor Holiday Park.
The Turks Head
17.4 km
Historic 16th-century coaching inn in Rothbury offering cozy rooms, local cuisine, and a welcoming pub atmosphere in Northumberland.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
15.9 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Dance Delicious
27.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
Knightrider Discos
29.2 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
BedRocks
43.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
43.7 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
Cosmic Ballroom
49.5 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
World HQ
49.6 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Sinners
49.6 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Popworld - Newcastle
49.7 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
49.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
49.8 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
49.8 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
49.8 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
49.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
49.8 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
