Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Kingdom of Northumbria
Description
Explore the scenic coastal route between Edinburgh and the ancient kingdom of Northumbria. Visit Alnwick Castle, see Holy Island, taste some Mead brewed by monks and explore the magnificent poison gardens at Alnwick.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Spend time wandering through the ruins of its Priory where the magnificent Lindisfarne Gospels were produced, sample some of the world-famous Lindisfarne 'Mead' brewed by Monks on the island, and enjoy the tranquillity for which the island is renowned Due to tide times on the following dates this tour will not be visiting Holy Island: 16th May, 31st May, 14th June, 15th June, 30th June, 14th July, 28th August, 26th September, 25th October, 26th October
We continue south on to the bustling market town of Alnwick, whose greatest building is the medieval Alnwick Castle*. Enjoy time in the town centre or remain at the castle complex where there is something for everyone. Home of the Percy Family for over 700 years, Alnwick Castle is considered one of the finest castles in England and proudly known as “The Windsor of the North”. Visitors can step into the unexpected in the spectacular Alnwick Garden, with its wonderful Grand Cascade and Poison Gardens. It's grounds were also used in the Harry Potter films.
If time permits during this journey there will be a stop at Flodden Field, one of the best preserved battlefields in Northern Europe and scene of the infamous battle of 1513 which ended in victory for the English and the death of James IV, King of Scots.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 4 years old.
- Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
- Digital translations in English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian & Mandarin available on request.
- Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.
- Due to tide times on the following dates this tour will not be visiting Holy Island: 26th September, 25th October, 26th October
- Customers do not need to pre-book admission tickets to optional extras. These can be purchased during the tour from the driver-guide and are not included in the price of the tour.
- Our coaches do not have restrooms. However, frequent comfort breaks are included at stops with restrooms.
- Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.
Reviews(521)
Vix was awesome! She kept the tour entertaining and gave a lot of information about Scotland! She was interactive and was always upbeat the entire time!
Amazing tour. Ash, our guide, was an engaging and thoughtful storyteller. If you are someone that likes history-forward storytelling, mixed with humor and charm, you'll love this tour. You get more than what you pay for.
Very nice tour with a fantastic guide ! Anne is cheerful, very knowledgeable, full of humour ! Also very nice to have a woman guide :) We had a great time and appreciated that we could take the time to enjoy each of the various spots on the way !
What a fantastic day trip! Adam is not only an outstanding driver-guide but also a true entertainer, keeping everyone engaged with his wit and humour throughout the journey. He brilliantly brings to life the stark contrast between the humble, ascetic existence of Saint Cuthbert and the extraordinary wealth and grandeur of the Percy family. The day is packed with fascinating history, stunning storytelling, and plenty of laughs. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys breathtaking scenery, spectacular views, and the splendour of magnificent castle interiors. One of the highlights of our trip!
Great day with lots of facts and information shared by Adam - I now know that Scotland’s flag is the oldest national flag in the world (amongst other things). Very clear and helpful at drop offs too.
The trip was very well organized - plenty of stops, beautiful views, and a witty, professional guide, Adam.
Great day out, Adam was a brilliant tour guide and driver. Would definitely recommend
Excellent trip longer time on Holy Island would have been good but as tide dependant we at least had a chance to see thst there is a lot there and well worth another visit Alnwick is a lovely town to look around before you take in the castle and gardens. Brian was extremely good commentating throughout the journey with lots of interesting history stories thrown in He took time to greet everyone asking where we were from. Checked we knee yimes and pick up points. Nice stop off points and music on the bus. Would definitely recommend.
Great tour! Exiting places, lots to see. Very friendly bus driver (Brian) - tells historical stories, jokes and has a welcoming energy. I highly recommend this trip for people who are interested in history and also Harry Potter :-)
Very good! plan for the drive and if you want to do the poisoned garden you need to buy an additional ticket to that of the garden and you need to book a time slot in advance (so planning is a bit more complicated if that's what interests you)
