Castle Wizard

Yesterday me and the missus visited Alnwick castle in the ancient county of Northumberland in Northern England.

The castle is still completely intact and home to the current Earl. His family have lived there for hundreds of years. The grandeur of its interior is eye watering. Bristling with hung Canalletos and Titians and 14000  antique tomes, it is a fitting home for aristocracy. I did however, as I always do in such country piles, feel for the tens of thousands of ordinary subjects throughout history on who‘s shoulders this grand mound stands.

Modern barons have to make a living and Alnwick has been hired out. Blackadder has been shot there but it’s most famous turn is as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. Judging by the number of excited youngsters thronging on the grounds it was easy to see the attraction. There was even a broomstick flying lesson going on, as well as an impressive falconry display. Kids everywhere had either swords, wands or even plastic Potter broomsticks. Dumbledore wandered through at one point.

But it has to be said that Alnwick castle hasn’t flaunted its famous link. It’s quite subtle and the main dragon Expo is a separate ticketed feature.

Even the town doesn‘t get too excited like say Whitby does with Dracula. I did see a stack of hardback Harry Potter books at £10 each in a Charity shop. It really could be Hogwarts Central if it wanted and I‘m sure the throngs of adoring HP fans would come running.

Have you been to a castle readers? Do you like Harry Potter?