Alnwick
Alnwick, the County Town of Northumberland and home to the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, their home, the magnificent Castle high on the hillside, overlooking the river Aln which gave protection from invading raiders in the days of the Border Wars.
The town is split into the two Parishes of St Michael and St Paul and on Shrove Tuesday each year, the eagerly awaited football match takes place, between the people, young and old from both churches, as well those who wish to join in. Traditionally the ball is thrown, from the Barbican, by the Duke, then it is piped to the other side of the river, by the Duke's Piper, where the match is played. At the end of the game the ball is thrown into the river, the gallant person who retrieves the ball and swims to the other bank, has a souvenir.
Another event, which takes place during the last Week in June, is the Town Fair, it has become so popular, visitors come from far and wide, to witness the traditional events taking place, most of which are performed in Medieval or Fancy dress.
The town has a good mix of large and small Shops, Restaurants, and Olde World Pubs, do look out for the "Dirty Bottles" the title is explained when you look in the window. Well worth a visit.
Return to Northumberland Tour page.