Visitors to Northumberland are being invited to raise a glass in a new bar with a spectacular setting.
Alnwick Castle has created a bar as part of its plans to provide better food and drink facilities for visitors and it's set to provide a popular stop off for anyone in the mood for a locally-made craft beer or local gin.
The new Alnwick Castle Bar is just one of the new grown-up attractions at the castle which aim to provide "super-smart" drinking and eating areas, many of them enabling families to dine al fresco so they can take advantage of good weather.
Another big change which will be noticed by returning visitors now that the venue has reopened following its winter closure is a new-look cafe.
The Courtyard Café has been revamped and reopened as a new warm and atmospheric eatery called The Courtyard whose vintage-style interior features quirky, comfortable furniture, huge mirrors and atmospheric lighting.
Before being shown to their table, visitors can now stop off first for a drink in the new bar.
They then can pick from a cafe menu featuring the likes of sandwiches; jacket potatoes and meat, fish and vegetarian dishes such as quiche; lentil and halloumi burger; Caesar salad and steak ale pie plus puddings and cheese. There is also a children's menu and lunch box option.
And, in a new move, evening meals are to be introduced to the cafe too. From early May, The Courtyard will be transformed into a chic bistro by night in a development from the castle's occasional Sanctuary Dining events by new head chef Craig Harvey.
Other food outlets being introduced at the castle are to ensure that a wide variety of meals, snacks and drinks are available in a choice of different surroundings and styles.
Also new is an Armoury Take-Away in the Artisans Courtyard to cater for the families who take part in the popular medieval games and events held there.
And the castle has revamped its fish and chip shop - the Victorian-style Stables Friary housed in the castle's old stable block - and its touring motorised food cart Piaggio.
The changes are in response to feedback from families over the years who have proved keen to see more dining options for all ages.
And, in keeping with the food and drink expansion, the castle has taken on new catering and restaurant staff plus chefs to cater for all-day requirements.
The castle's spring season also marks the return of its popular family programme which features the likes of Harry Potter Wizarding events; a summer Joust of the North spectacle; castle tours and exhibitions.
For more information see here or call 01665 511 100.
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