Interesting bridge over a watercourse in Sofia
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Lion Bridge

4.8
·78 reviews·, United Kingdom

A picturesque bridge offering stunning Alnwick Castle views, adjacent to a historic castle and a unique Poison Garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Interesting bridge over a watercourse in Sofia

Lion Bridge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque bridge offering stunning Alnwick Castle views, adjacent to a historic castle and a unique Poison Garden.

4.8
(78 reviews)

"Stroll across this unique bridge for fantastic views of Alnwick Castle and a dose of magic."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Castle Views

Walk across the Lion Bridge for fantastic, peaceful views of Alnwick Castle. :camerawithflash:

⚡ Harry Potter Magic

Visit Alnwick Castle for a taste of Hogwarts! Broomstick training is a hit with younger fans. :wizard:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lion Bridge Views

Lion Bridge Views

Perth Road, Alnwick

Stroll across this unique bridge for stunning, tranquil views of Alnwick Castle and surrounding fields.

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick, Northumberland

Explore the real-life Hogwarts from the first two Harry Potter films. Don't miss broomstick training!

The Poison Garden

The Poison Garden

Adjacent to Alnwick Garden

A fascinating, albeit dangerous, garden filled with toxic and narcotic plants. Guided tours are a must.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for weekdays outside of school holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience and better photo opportunities.

Castle & Beyond

While the Lion Bridge offers great castle views, consider booking Alnwick Castle tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Explore the adjacent Poison Garden for a unique, albeit cautionary, experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lilidorei is home to the world’s tallest play structure and it is a must visit if you’re looking for days out with kids! 🤩👀 Lilidorei at Alnwick Gardens will be open for 2025 this month! Explore the 9 clan houses, play on the massive play structure and enjoy daily activities! 📹: @northeastfamilyexplorers @Lilidorei @ The Alnwick Garden #lilidorei #thingstodo #uniquedaysout #dayoutwithkids #alnwi...
@dayoutwiththekids
227.5K likes • 5.9M views

📸 Castle Views

Walk across the Lion Bridge for fantastic, peaceful views of Alnwick Castle. :camerawithflash: Reddit

⚡ Harry Potter Magic

Visit Alnwick Castle for a taste of Hogwarts! Broomstick training is a hit with younger fans. :wizard: TikTok

Visiting the real life Hogwarts Castle from the first 2 Harry Potter films ✨ Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is the Harry Potter filming location for Hogwarts in The Philosopher’s Stone & The Chamber of Secrets!! #thetravelist #harrypotter #harrypottertiktok #filminglocation #travel #uktravel #fyp #hptiktok #hogwarts
@thetravelist
94.2K likes • 2.4M views
Cross the pontoon and stay together for a lifetime.❤️ 📍Enshi | Lion Pass Tourist Area,China Ziguan Pontoon Bridge. #bridge #cross #explore #view #viral
naturesms
22.4K likes • 523.9K views

⚠️ Poison Garden Caution

Explore the unique Poison Garden, but be mindful of the dangerous plants. Guided tours recommended. :warning: TikTok

🚗 Weekday Visits

Going on a chilly June weekday with few crowds made the experience much better! :thumbs_up: TikTok

Lion gate floating bridge in Enshi 🦁 @chinainsider
chinainsider
4.8K likes • 104.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Castle Views

Walk across the Lion Bridge for fantastic, peaceful views of Alnwick Castle. :camerawithflash: Reddit

⚡ Harry Potter Magic

Visit Alnwick Castle for a taste of Hogwarts! Broomstick training is a hit with younger fans. :wizard: TikTok

⚠️ Poison Garden Caution

Explore the unique Poison Garden, but be mindful of the dangerous plants. Guided tours recommended. :warning: TikTok

🚗 Weekday Visits

Going on a chilly June weekday with few crowds made the experience much better! :thumbs_up: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning views of Alnwick Castle from the Lion Bridge and the magical Harry Potter experience at the castle itself. The Poison Garden offers a unique, albeit cautionary, botanical adventure, and Lilidorei provides endless fun for children. Some find the castle can get crowded, and the Poison Garden requires careful supervision.

"Located along the Perth road, not far off the Alnwick castle grounds. They have a beautifully designed lion with a very pointy tail, there are small foot paths either side of the road for cars. They are also passing points to make it easier for people to keep moving , they can also be used viewing points. You can see further out into the fields when standing on the bridge"

Mark Ngavaite

"Worth the five minute walk from the castle to stroll across this unique bridge. You get great views of the castle from here."

Adam Sewell

"Beautiful views from every angle. Peaceful & tranquil for that perfect walk what ever the weather 💯"

Scott Dixon

What People Like

Spectacular castle views
Harry Potter magic
Unique Poison Garden

What People Dislike

Crowds during peak times
Poison Garden supervision needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lion Bridge is located along Perth Road, a short walk from Alnwick Castle grounds. It's easily accessible by car with small footpaths on either side for pedestrians. Reddit

Parking is available at Alnwick Castle, and the bridge is a short walk from there. Consider public transport or ride-sharing if you prefer not to drive. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Alnwick town center to the Lion Bridge, offering scenic views as you approach the castle. Reddit

Alnwick is accessible by car via the A1. The nearest train station is Alnmouth, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Alnwick. TikTok

Regular bus services connect Alnwick to surrounding towns and cities. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking on the Lion Bridge itself is free and accessible. However, access to Alnwick Castle and the Poison Garden requires separate tickets. Reddit

Ticket prices for Alnwick Castle vary. It's recommended to book online in advance for potential discounts and to secure your entry slot. TikTok

Often, combined tickets or passes are available that offer access to both Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden, which includes the Poison Garden. Check the official Alnwick Garden website for current offers. TikTok

Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden have seasonal opening hours. The Lion Bridge is generally accessible at all times, but it's best to check the official websites for the castle and garden for specific hours. TikTok

While free passes are not standard, arriving early and getting a free pass upon entry is mentioned as a strategy to maximize your visit, especially if you missed certain activities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Lion Bridge offers excellent vantage points for capturing Alnwick Castle. Stand on the bridge itself or the small footpaths alongside for unobstructed views. Reddit

Yes, the Lion Bridge, with its unique design, can be a subject of photography. Try different angles from the road or the surrounding paths. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour,' provide soft, flattering light for photographing both the bridge and the castle. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas of Alnwick Castle and the gardens. However, always check for any specific signage or guidelines on-site. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and attractions like Alnwick Castle due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

🎫 🌿 The Alnwick Garden & Poison Garden

The Alnwick Garden is a beautifully landscaped garden featuring various themed areas, including the famous Poison Garden, a Rose Garden, and a large play structure called Lilidorei. TikTok+1

The Poison Garden is home to over 100 species of poisonous, intoxicating, and narcotic plants from around the world. It's a fascinating and cautionary experience. TikTok

While children can visit the Poison Garden, they must be supervised closely due to the dangerous nature of the plants. Touching or tasting is strictly forbidden. TikTok

Lilidorei is a magical village within The Alnwick Garden, featuring the world's tallest play structure, clan houses, and daily activities, designed for children's imaginative play. TikTok+1

The Alnwick Garden hosts various seasonal events and activities throughout the year, including Christmas celebrations and twilight events. Check their official website for the latest schedule. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden are fantastic destinations for families. The castle offers broomstick training for aspiring wizards, which is a huge hit with children. TikTok The Alnwick Garden's Lilidorei is a magical village featuring the world's tallest play structure, ensuring hours of fun and imaginative play for younger visitors. TikTok+1

While the Poison Garden is fascinating, keep a close eye on children due to the dangerous plants. TikTok The Lion Bridge provides a pleasant, easy walk with lovely views, making it accessible for all ages. Consider booking tickets in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak family travel times. Reddit

🎬 Harry Potter Fans

For Harry Potter enthusiasts, Alnwick Castle is an absolute must-visit. It's the iconic filming location for Hogwarts in the first two films. TikTok You can experience the thrill of broomstick training on the same spot where Harry learned to fly! TikTok The castle grounds themselves offer a magical atmosphere, allowing you to truly step into the wizarding world. TikTok

While the Lion Bridge offers a great view of the castle, dedicating a full day to explore the castle's interiors and grounds will provide the most immersive experience. Don't forget to check for any special Harry Potter-themed events or activities that might be running during your visit. TikTok

🌿 Garden Enthusiasts & Nature Lovers

The Alnwick Garden offers a unique horticultural experience, with the Poison Garden being a standout attraction for those interested in botanical curiosities. TikTok Explore the diverse collection of toxic and narcotic plants, learning about their history and uses. TikTok Beyond the Poison Garden, the wider Alnwick Garden features beautifully landscaped areas, including a Rose Garden and a Bamboo Labyrinth, perfect for a peaceful stroll. TikTok

The Lion Bridge itself offers a tranquil setting with lovely views of the surrounding countryside and Alnwick Castle, appealing to those who appreciate scenic beauty and a moment of quiet contemplation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Harry Potter Connection

Alnwick Castle famously served as the filming location for Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, The Philosopher's Stone and The Chamber of Secrets. Fans can immerse themselves in the magic by participating in broomstick training sessions, just like Harry and his classmates. TikTok The castle grounds offer a truly immersive experience for any Potterhead, allowing them to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. TikTok

Beyond the broomstick training, the castle itself provides a stunning backdrop for photos and exploration. Imagine the scenes filmed within these historic walls! While the Lion Bridge offers a picturesque view of the castle, visiting the castle interior and grounds is essential for a complete Harry Potter pilgrimage. Reddit

Pro-tip: Arrive early or plan your visit during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and maximize your time exploring the magical setting. TikTok

Exploring The Alnwick Garden & Poison Garden

The Alnwick Garden is a spectacular horticultural attraction adjacent to the castle, offering a diverse range of themed gardens. One of its most talked-about features is the Poison Garden, a unique and somewhat daring space dedicated to plants that can kill or cause severe harm. TikTok Visitors are warned not to touch or smell the plants, and guided tours provide fascinating insights into the history and uses of these dangerous flora. TikTok

Beyond the Poison Garden, The Alnwick Garden boasts a beautiful Rose Garden, a serene Bamboo Labyrinth, and the impressive Lilidorei, a magical village with the world's tallest play structure. TikTok+1 Lilidorei is a wonderland for children, encouraging imaginative play and exploration. TikTok

Key takeaway: Allocate ample time to explore both the castle and the gardens, as they offer distinct yet complementary experiences. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the best value and to ensure you don't miss out on any of the magic. TikTok

The Lion Bridge: More Than Just a Viewpoint

The Lion Bridge, situated on Perth Road, is more than just a picturesque spot; it's a functional crossing that offers a unique perspective of Alnwick Castle. Reddit Its design includes small footpaths on either side of the road, acting as both passing points for cars and viewing platforms for visitors. Reddit

Standing on the bridge, you get a tranquil and unobstructed view of the castle, making it a perfect location for photography, especially during the softer light of early mornings or late afternoons. TikTokReddit The peaceful atmosphere here provides a lovely contrast to the bustling castle grounds, offering a moment of calm reflection. Reddit

Insider tip: Take a few minutes to stroll across the bridge and appreciate the serene landscape. It's a worthwhile five-minute detour from the castle that rewards you with beautiful, memorable views. Reddit

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