Alnwick Castle, Northumberland Coast & the Borders

A day spent in the Borderlands of Scotland and England. Our tour follows the ancient Roman Dere Street that connected Scottish Caledonia with Roman Britannia through the Scottish Borders.

Stopping in the Borders town of Kelso, you can explore this handsome town with what is thought to be Scotland’s largest market square. You will also see the ruins of Kelso Abbey, one of the reminders of the many ancient conflicts between Scotland and England.

Continuing South you will cross the border and travel to imposing Alnwick Castle, one of the great castles of Northumberland that has stood for nearly a millenium. Originally built to protect the north of England from Scottish border reivers and invaders, more recently Alnwick Castle and its perfectly manicured gardens have found fame as one of the settings for the fictional Hogwarts school in the Harry Potter movie series.

After almost 3 hours to explore Alnwick Castle and Gardens you travel north along the Northumberland Coast, one of the UK’s most outstanding area’s of natural beauty. Stopping along the way to admire some of the area’s best known beaches, castles and ancient Border towns.

TRUE FACT: The Outer Bailey at Alnwick Castle is recognisable as the area where Harry and his fellow students learned to fly broomsticks with Madam Hooch. It is also where Harry learned the rules of wizarding sport Quidditch”