1 Day Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Scottish Borders
Berwick-upon-Tweed, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore castles of the 'Viking Coast'
- Step back in time at Alnwick Castle
- Immerse in Scotland's history with tales of Robert the Bruce
- Admire the stunning view from Scott's View
- Learn about the infamous Border Reivers
-
Duration: 10 hours
-
Experienced Driver-Guide
-
Comfort breaks included
-
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
Regular stops for food
-
Admission not included
Embark on a thrilling journey through history and fantasy on the 1 Day Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Scottish Borders tour. Step into the real Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry at Alnwick Castle, where you can explore the magnificent halls and even try your hand at broomstick training with the resident Wizarding Professor. Visit the sacred Holy Island and discover the iconic Lindisfarne Castle and ancient Lindisfarne Priory. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sir Walter Scott's Borders countryside and enjoy the breathtaking view from Scott's View. Learn about Scotland's history and hear tales of the infamous Border Reivers as you travel through the Pentland Hills. This tour is perfect for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts looking to explore the fascinating landscapes and stories of Scotland and Northern England. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
10 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the magic of Alnwick Castle, Holy Island, and the Scottish Borders on this engaging day tour with expert storytelling and comfort.
Included
-
Air-conditioned vehicle -
All fees and taxes
-
Regular comfort breaks
-
Experienced 'hairy coo' driver-guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
Excluded
-
Wifi on board -
Restroom on board
-
Entry to alnwick castle & gardens (seasonal: march 28th 2025 – october 23rd 2025)
-
Entry to bamburgh castle (seasonal: october 25th – march 27th 2025)
-
No children under the age of 7 allowed
Meeting Point
We are meeting outside Hotel Malmaison, on the north side of St Andrew Square, 22 St Andrew Square, EH2 1AY. CHECK-IN IS AT 8 AM, BUS DEPARTS 8:15 AM.
22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 1AY , United Kingdom
End Point
We are meeting outside Hotel Malmaison, on the north side of St Andrew Square, 22 St Andrew Square, EH2 1AY. CHECK-IN IS AT 8 AM, BUS DEPARTS 8:15 AM.
22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 1AY , United Kingdom
What to expect
Holy Island
Next, we set our sights on Holy Island, a place steeped in spirituality and history. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Holy Island boasts the iconic Lindisfarne Castle and the ancient Lindisfarne Priory. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this sacred island, where the interplay of history and nature creates a truly magical atmosphere.
60 minutes
Alnwick Castle
It’s then on to the magical Alnwick Castle. A dream come true for Harry Potter fanatics from around the world, you will have plenty of time to explore the corridors, great halls and courtyards of the real school of witchcraft and wizardry, Hogwarts! See where Harry learned to fly and to play Quidditch in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. You might even wish to take part in their famous Broomstick Training sessions with the resident Wizarding Professor! (Please note: Alnwick Castle will be closed until March 27th 2025)
180 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Alnwick Garden
Some guests may prefer to explore breathtaking Alnwick Gardens, originally developed by the Duke of Northumberland in the 18th Century and redeveloped by a charitable trust over the past 20 years. Or indeed, the charming village of Alnwick itself which is home to the largest second hand book store in the UK.
180 minutes
Admission Not Included
Bamburgh Castle
We’ll stop in the picturesque village of Bamburgh and enjoy spectacular views of the imposing Castle overlooking the bay. Take yourself back in time and imagine Viking longships attacking this strategic stronghold in the 10th Century! Or, enjoy local ice-cream in the sun as you stroll along the beautiful beach. Please note: If you join us between the 25th of October and the 27th of March 2025 Alnwick Castle will be closed, and the tour will make a longer visit to Bamburgh Castle instead of Alnwick Castle. Here you can explore over 3000 years of incredible history while enjoying fantastic views and sea air.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
Edinburgh
On our journey back to Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, you will hear tales from your Guide about the infamous Border Reivers, who raided villages and settlements in this part of the country for centuries – friends to neither the Scots nor the English! We will drop you off in the city centre, our estimated arrival time is 6:30 PM. Please note that this can be impacted by traffic and other factors outwith our control. We recommend leaving 2 hours between the expected arrival time and any onward travel or reservations, as we are not able to offer individual drop-offs.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Public transportation options are available nearby -
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
-
There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
-
This tour in an air-conditioned midi-coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
-
There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
-
There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks
-
No animals allowed on tour, including guide dogs.
-
For insurance purposes, passengers must not be unaccompanied on our buses during tour stops. Drivers take legally required breaks and cannot stay with the vehicle.
What our experts say
-
Arrive early for the best seats. -
Try local seafood at a Bamburgh café.
-
Wear sturdy shoes for nature walks.
-
Visit the second-hand bookstore in Alnwick.
-
Check tide times for Holy Island access.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience a magical journey through history as you embark on the 1 Day Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Scottish Borders tour. This adventure takes you on an exploration of the castles along the rugged 'Viking Coast' of Berwickshire and Northumberland, all while crossing the picturesque Border between Scotland and England. Prepare to be transported back in time as you visit the iconic Alnwick Castle, the real-life Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Harry Potter and discover where the magic was brought to life on the big screen. Along the way, learn about Scotland's fascinating history, including tales of Robert the Bruce, the 'Outlaw King'.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect a captivating journey full of breathtaking sights and enriching experiences. Prepare to have your imagination ignited as you step into the magical realm of Alnwick Castle, exploring its corridors, great halls, and captivating courtyards. Quench your thirst for Harry Potter trivia and take part in the famous Broomstick Training sessions, guided by the resident Wizarding Professor. The tour also allows you to delve into the serene spirituality and history of Holy Island, with its iconic Lindisfarne Castle and ancient Lindisfarne Priory. Enjoy the picturesque views of Sir Walter Scott's beloved Borders countryside, where you can stop by Scott's View and gaze upon the stunning River Tweed and Eildon Hills.Who is this for?
This tour caters to a diverse range of travelers, from Harry Potter enthusiasts to history buffs, and anyone seeking a unique blend of enchantment and culture. Whether you're a die-hard Potterhead or simply appreciate stunning castles and scenic landscapes, this experience is sure to leave you spellbound. Families, couples, solo adventurers, and friends alike can come together to create lasting memories on this captivating journey.Why book this?
The 1 Day Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Scottish Borders tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the real-life Hogwarts and explore the Scottish Borders. With its rich history, magnificent castles, and breathtaking landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. The chance to immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter and walk in the footsteps of wizards is an experience like no other. Additionally, the knowledgeable guides will ensure you gain a deep understanding of Scotland's history, legends, and culture, giving you a comprehensive experience that combines fantasy and reality. So, book this tour to embark on an extraordinary journey that combines enchantment, history, and natural beauty.Good to know
It is important to note that the total duration of this tour is approximately 600 minutes, allowing you ample time to fully embrace each location. The tour starts at the bus stop outside Deacon's House Cafe and ends at the same location. While at Alnwick Castle, you can choose to explore the stunning Alnwick Gardens or the charming village of Alnwick itself, home to the largest second-hand bookstore in the UK. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather, as you will be walking and exploring various sites throughout the day. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of St. Abbs, Holy Island, Scott's View, and Pentland Hills, as each destination offers its own unique charm and allure.Reviews
Customers who have experienced the 1 Day Alnwick Castle, Holy Island & Scottish Borders tour have raved about its magical ambiance and historical insight. They commend the well-informed guides who not only provide fascinating anecdotes but also ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Visitors are particularly delighted by the opportunity to explore the extraordinary Alnwick Castle, immersing themselves in the world of Harry Potter and reliving iconic scenes from the movies. The combination of captivating landscapes, enchanting castles, and stories of Scotland's past creates an unforgettable journey that has left visitors in awe. Expectations are exceeded and memories are made on this mystical adventure through Alnwick Castle, Holy Island, and the Scottish Borders.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is