Friday 6^th July 

It is easy to see why Alnwick castle has featured in so many films. It was built as a border defence castle but was later transformed into a palace .

https://www.alnwickcastle.com/

 

The state rooms are sumptuous but photos are not permitted. The ceilings are stunning. They were carved out of wood by ex shipbuilders in the 1850s. An Italian craftsman trained them and the task provided about 20 years of work for people whose skills were no longer needed as ships were being made of iron. The huge mirrors that reflect the ceilings are unbelievably smooth & clear.

The gardens are quite separate from the castle and offer different areas and experiences but water features extensively. The variety and ingenuity of the fountains was fun.

The scent in the rose garden was lovely and our timing was just about perfect.

The original walled garden is now a beautiful ornamental garden. The shades of the blue delphiniums just shimmered.

Barter Books in Alnwick's old station building is a warren of comfy corners to read in as well as thousands of books and model trains that run around the tops of the shelves.

We rounded off the day with excellent fish and chips followed by watching gulls and seals catch their suppers as the sun set.