From Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria

Set out on a captivating journey from Edinburgh to uncover the enchanting wonders of Northumbria. Explore the rich religious heritage of Holy Island, where Lindisfarne Priory stands as a beacon of Anglo-Saxon Christianity. Delight in the cinematic splendor of Alnwick Castle and explore the mesmerizing Alnwick Gardens, featuring the Grand Cascade. With expert guides and convenient transportation, this immersive tour promises an unforgettable adventure steeped in history and natural beauty. Discover the allure of this captivating region and uncover the stories that have captured the hearts of travelers for centuries.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 9-hour tour from Edinburgh exploring Holy Island, Alnwick Castle, and the Northumbria region.
• Visit the historic Lindisfarne Priory and enjoy free time on the serene Holy Island.
• Discover the grandeur of Alnwick Castle, featured in popular films, and explore the stunning Alnwick Gardens.
• Stop at the Flodden Field Memorial for historical insights into the region’s past.
• Convenient transportation via modern, air-conditioned bus with knowledgeable driver-guide commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating region of Holy Island, Alnwick Castle, and Northumbria. Priced from $73.27 per person, this 9-hour adventure promises an engaging and immersive experience.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of reserving now and paying later.

The tour departs from Edinburgh, taking visitors on a scenic 105-minute journey to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, followed by the historic town of Alnwick, home to the renowned Alnwick Castle and Gardens.

With optional entry fees and ample free time, this tour caters to a range of interests, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching day in the stunning Northumbrian landscape.

Itinerary Highlights

The captivating journey begins with a departure from the Ensign Ewart in Edinburgh, launching a scenic 105-minute bus ride to the iconic Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Visitors will be granted free time to explore the island’s rich history, including a visit to the renowned Lindisfarne Priory.

The tour then continues to the charming town of Alnwick, where guests can enjoy lunch and optional visits to the impressive Alnwick Castle and the Alnwick Garden, known for its Grand Cascade fountain and Poison Gardens.

Along the way, a photo stop at the Flodden Field Memorial offers a poignant glimpse into the region’s past.

The return journey to Edinburgh takes approximately 1.5 hours.

1. Explore the spiritual and cultural significance of Lindisfarne Priory on Holy Island.
2. Discover the architectural splendor and cinematic fame of Alnwick Castle.
3. Wander through the captivating Alnwick Garden, with its stunning Grand Cascade and intriguing Poison Gardens.
4. Learn about the historic Flodden Field and its pivotal role in British history.

Exploring Holy Island

Nestled in the tranquil waters of the Northumbrian coast, Holy Island stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage. This historic site, also known as Lindisfarne, was once the center of Anglo-Saxon Christianity, home to the magnificent Lindisfarne Gospels.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the remarkable Lindisfarne Priory, where you can learn about the island’s role in the spread of Christianity throughout Britain.

Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about the island’s captivating history. With free time to wander the island, you can truly soak in the serene atmosphere and experience the spiritual essence that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

Discovering Alnwick Castle

Towering over the charming town of Alnwick, Alnwick Castle stands as a magnificent testament to the region’s regal past.

This iconic landmark, featured in beloved films like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, captivates visitors with its rich history and architectural grandeur.

Explore the castle’s opulent state rooms, marvel at the stunning interiors, and discover its role as the ancestral home of the Dukes of Northumberland.

Beyond the castle walls, the Alnwick Gardens showcase a remarkable fusion of horticulture and design, boasting the iconic Grand Cascade fountain and the alluring Poison Garden.

Whether you’re a history buff, a film enthusiast, or a nature lover, Alnwick Castle promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

1. Explore the castle’s opulent state rooms and marvel at the stunning interiors.
2. Discover the castle’s role as the ancestral home of the Dukes of Northumberland.
3. Venture into the Alnwick Gardens and witness the iconic Grand Cascade fountain.
4. Experience the alluring Poison Garden, showcasing a remarkable fusion of horticulture and design.

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Visiting Alnwick Gardens

Alongside the majestic Alnwick Castle, the Alnwick Gardens offer a captivating and multifaceted experience for visitors. Boasting stunning landscapes, the gardens feature the iconic Grand Cascade, where water cascades down a series of steps and terraces, creating a mesmerizing display.

The Poison Gardens showcase a collection of deadly plants, inviting guests to explore the darker side of nature. Visitors can also wander through the Bamboo Labyrinth, lose themselves in the tranquility of the Ornamental Garden, and marvel at the vibrant floral displays.

The Alnwick Gardens seamlessly blend natural beauty, architectural grandeur, and educational elements, making it a must-visit companion to the renowned Alnwick Castle.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour is serviced by a modern, air-conditioned bus equipped with live commentary provided by a knowledgeable driver-guide. This ensures a comfortable and informative journey throughout the scenic Northumbrian countryside.

However, there are a few important considerations for potential travelers:

1. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years of age, as the destinations and activities may not be appropriate for young children.

2. Wheelchair users are welcome, but collapsible wheelchairs will require assistance, as the bus may not be equipped to accommodate non-collapsible mobility devices.

3. Travelers should allow extra time for reaching the departure point in Edinburgh due to potential taxi shortages in the area.

4. Meeting at the designated location, the green Ensign Ewart pub on Lawnmarket, is crucial for a punctual start to the day-long excursion.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Travelers who have embarked on this tour to Holy Island and Alnwick Castle have consistently shared overwhelmingly positive experiences.

A recurring highlight has been the quality of the tour guides, with reviewers praising their extensive knowledge, engaging commentary, and ability to bring the region’s rich history to life.

Visitors have been captivated by the serene beauty of Holy Island and the grandeur of Alnwick Castle, expressing awe at the stunning architecture and fascinating insights provided.

Many have also appreciated the convenient transportation and flexible itinerary, allowing them to make the most of their time in this captivating corner of Northumbria.

Sum Up

This captivating 9-hour journey from Edinburgh promises an unforgettable adventure steeped in history. Travelers will explore the enchanting Holy Island, Alnwick Castle, and the picturesque landscapes of Northumbria. The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich religious heritage of Lindisfarne Priory and delight in the cinematic splendor of Alnwick Castle and its stunning gardens. Convenient transportation and expert guides ensure a seamless and immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: