Alnwick a Gem of the North East of England

A small market town situated in the Northumberland in the North East of England, Alnwick is a quaint town which is regularly voted one of the top places to live in the United Kingdom.

Dating back to 600AD, Alnwick is a historic town, boasting the beautiful Alnwick Castle. Now the stately home of the Duke of Northumberland, Alnwick Castle was built shortly after the Norman Conquest. A Grade 1 listed building; it has been renovated several times throughout its life and has been a noticeable location in many Hollywood films, and most notably Robin Hood Price of Thieves in the early 1990's and more recently in three Harry Potter films. Whilst it draws visitors for its own historic merits, these locations have no doubt been the reason why Alnwick Castle has been one of the most visited historic houses in recent years.

It's not difficult to see why Alnwick is such a sought after place to live. Low crime levels, high quality local produce and transport facilities are at the top of the reasons, whilst Alnwick's historic qualities and its sheer beauty definitely helps.

Further to Alnwick's natural attractiveness, Alnwick Garden, one of Europe's most spectacular contemporary gardens. Alnwick Garden is an attraction that is worth a visit on any trip to Alnwick. Opened by the Prince of Wales in 2002, Alnwick Garden is situated in 12 acre walled area and is one of the most contemporary garden areas created in the past century. With the idea coming from the Duchess of Northumberland, it is designed by Jacques Wirtz, the world famous designer, and is a continually growing process.

Known for its marketplace situated in the centre of the town, Alnwick boasts a thriving playhouse amongst its many theatrical connections, which also include a multi-purpose arts centre.

Whilst Alnwick is now not known as financial centre, it is an extremely popular town for commuters. Within distance of Newcastle upon Tyne and Morpeth and with accessible transport links, a home in Alnwick allows for the city worker to have a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of their work place.

For one of the UK's smaller towns, Alnwick boasts a massive amount of accommodation choices. You won't find skyscraper size hotels, but there is a varied range of Alnwick Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts and holiday cottages.

One of the reasons so many people visit Alnwick is its close proximity to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Only a small drive and a short ferry ride away, the beautiful, unspoilt island of Lindisfarne boasts its own castle and has a world renowned mediaeval heritage, all situated in the south of the island. A refreshing drive north and you are taken to haven of untouched natural beauty and remote beaches.

Alnwick isn't extensively marketed as a tourist town, for the pure reason it doesn't need to be. Everyone who has been to Alnwick will recommend it to a friend, who'll in turn recommend it again. It's beautiful, relaxing and peaceful - the perfect place for a short break away.