Round The World and other travels

A frequent flyer's collection of trip diaries

July 2011: Northumberland

Alnwick Castle & Gardens

I decided to visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens on the way home from Beamish. The castle dates from around 1100 and was built as a defence against Scottish invaders. These days it is the residence of the Duke of Northumberland, but large parts of it are open to the public. After Windsor Castle, it is the second largest inhabited castle in England. The castle is enjoying a surge in popularity due its appearance in the Harry Potter films.

Identity Crisis

Berwick-upon-Tweed lies less than three miles south of the Scottish border. Once a royal burgh of Scotland, it has been English since 1482; however the town's football team plays in the Scottish league.

Linked report from same trip: Beamish

Base: Hilton Newcastle-Gateshead