Alnwick Castle prepares to close the season with heritage, music and family entertainment
Alnwick Castle is inviting visitors to make the most of the final days of its 2026 visitor season.
The programme of heritage crafts, traditional Northumbrian music and family entertainment is ahead of its seasonal closure on Tuesday 20 October.
It celebrates the Castle’s heritage and promises a lively end to the season, with activities taking place from Saturday 17 October through to the final day of opening.
Discover traditional skills at Heritage Craft Day
On Saturday 17 October, visitors can explore traditional skills and craftsmanship at Heritage Craft Day, with demonstrations and activities offering an insight into historic crafts and techniques.
The celebrations continue across the weekend with the Company of Artisans, who will be based in the Artisans Courtyard on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the work of skilled craftspeople and enjoy the atmosphere of traditional artisan practices in the historic Castle setting.
The sounds of Northumberland
Music will also take centre stage as Andrew Lawrenson brings the distinctive sound of the Northumbrian pipes to Alnwick Castle on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.
Performances will begin from 10.30am, with appearances at various points throughout the day in the State Rooms and Kitchen, offering visitors the chance to experience this celebrated musical tradition as they explore the Castle.
Tom Fool brings the season to a close
Adding a final dose of fun and laughter, Tom Fool will entertain visitors from Sunday 18 to Tuesday 20 October. Showtimes are: Sunday 18 and Monday 19 October: 11am, 1pm and 3pm and Tuesday 20 October: 11am and 1pm.
With family-friendly performances rounding off the programme, there will be plenty to enjoy before the Castle closes its doors to general visitors for the winter.
Looking ahead to Christmas
Although the main visitor season is coming to an end, festive celebrations are already on the horizon, with two special Christmas events to look forward to.
The Alnwick Castle Christmas Fair returns on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 November, taking place in the Castle’s Guest Hall. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts from local makers and artisans, discover seasonal treats and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Christmas in a historic setting.
The event begins with a special preview evening on Tuesday 24 November, followed by the daytime Christmas Market on Wednesday 25 November. Tickets from the fair go to support Smile for Life, a North East charity that helps disabled and disadvantaged young people reach their potential.
On the 4 December, visitors can also enjoy Christmas Greetings Live, a festive concert bringing music and dance to Alnwick Castle. Featuring violinist Matt Glossop performing a selection of Christmas favourites alongside live ballet, the event promises a memorable evening of festive entertainment for all the family.
For further information about visiting Alnwick Castle and to purchase tickets for the upcoming Christmas events, visit www.alnwickcastle.com.
