Harry Potter's Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Day Trip
Overview
Available languages
9 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combine movie magic and historic wonder on this small-group trip through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland. You will visit the picturesque seaside village of Bamburgh and take in the superb views of the 5th century Bamburgh Castle. But it is Alnwick Castle that’s the true star of this show. It’s not only a key filming location for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey; it’s also a historic location of epic conquests and royal splendor. Take this trip and become enthralled by Scottish & English borders regions.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5.
It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
Due to vehicle availability, there may be instances where this tour runs on a bigger bus.
The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures.
If downloading an audio guide, remember to bring your headset.
The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
What To Expect
Bamburgh Castle
Passing gentle rolling hills and dramatic coastline, we’ll cross the border with England to explore Bamburgh in the heart of Northumberland. The mighty Bamburgh Castle was the seat of the early Kings of Northumbria in the 5th century.
Alnwick Castle
In the afternoon, have your broomsticks at the ready as we’re off to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England. A long, rich history and magnificent medieval architecture makes it a film lovers’ dream.
Options
Tour excl. Alnwick Castle
Tour incl. Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle Entrance: Alnwick Castle was built 950 years ago. Its purpose was to control the perilous borders between Scotland and England.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local English Speaking Guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Entrance fees to Alnwick Castle (can be purchased at check-in)
Tips
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
467 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great to see in person
Larry D,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alistair was great! The castle was great too. Nice day all around ;)
Wonderful tour
Kelly W,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a wonderful day with our tour guide, Ryan. He shared interesting stories along the drive all about Scotland and the history. He answered my many questions very well. The castle’s were beautiful and he took us right to the easy entrances. We never had to wait for anything. Highly recommend.
Well worth it!
bowb988,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful experience, from scenery to the castles and everything in between! Driver was great and knowledgeable about the history of the areas we visiting and driving through!
Knowledgeable and Entertaining
662viviany,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Dusty did a fantastic job on giving us a chance to learn Scottish history during the trip! He is knowledgeable and fun, definitely worth it.
Great day in the castles
lsh7559,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ryan was excellent, full of fun and interesting facts. Castles were well worth the price of admission.
Wonderful excursion for Harry Potter fans.
agathel898,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Liz was great; we were very well taken care of during this excursion. The commentary was very informative and also funny, with quite a few anecdotes about Harry Potter for the fans, as Liz is a fan herself. We had just under 1.5 hours to visit Bamburgh and about 2.5 hours for Alnwick, which was more than enough. For HP fans, be aware that the time slots at Alnwick Castle for the filming location tour did not match our schedule. But you have plenty of time to explore and find them yourself! Also, if it rains, expect the broomstick activity to be canceled (as the grass is slippery). I highly recommend this excursion. Thank you again for this wonderful day!
Stunning castles
Discover27269637725,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Bamburgh is incredible but Alnwick is also just as incredible. Would recommend this tour and Connor to any future bookers.
Alnwick and bebenburg castle tour
jakecM2495NE,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Connor was extremely knowledgeable, super personable and an all together very pleasant tour guide to spend the day with. He gave fantastic recommendations and kept us amused during the ride. 10/10 would recommend
Excellent tour. Ryan was a pleasant informative guide/driver and it all went to plan. Parts of the drive are very pretty
brettonLondon,May 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Well guided. Good small coach
Wonderful Adventure
Venture61081476364,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a wonderful time on this outing! Our tour guides were fantastic! They were quite knowledgeable and entertaining. Would definitely recommend!
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Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd