What time does the poison garden open in Alnwick?

The Poison Garden at The Alnwick Garden generally opens with the main garden, typically around 10:00 AM, but is only accessible via guided tours. It is currently closed for annual maintenance and is scheduled to reopen in February 2026. For the most up-to-date schedule during the open season, it is recommended to check the official website as times can vary.

Is The Poison Garden open to the public?

The boundaries of the Poison Garden are kept behind black iron gates, only open on guided tours. Visitors are strictly prohibited from smelling, touching, or tasting any plants. Entry to The Poison Garden is included with your day ticket but please note tours are subject to availability.

Is there a poison garden at Alnwick Castle?

Filled with hundreds of toxic and narcotic plants, The Poison Garden Tour is a must on your visit to The Alnwick Garden.

Do you have to pre-book Lilidorei?

Pupils are charged at a rate of £5.00 each, with accompanying adults free in a raAo of 1:5. AddiAonal adults Ackets are priced at £7.00 each. Please book by filling in our Paid Visit booking form. All groups will need to pre-book their visit beforehand.

How often do the fountains go off at Alnwick Gardens?

You may hear the Grand Cascade fountain go off every hour and on the half past with its water display. The Serpent Garden has water features displaying all day with the largest one (Torricelli) squirting out of the ground every 20 minutes giving people a fright if they get wet in it.

The poison garden of Alnwick

How long do fountains last?

With proper maintenance, your fountain can last for many years—possibly even decades.

What should I wear when visiting Lilidorei?

Depending on the weather, here are some of our recommendations:

• Waterproofs.
• Warm clothing.
• Suitable footwear (trainers are fine but no high heels, please!)
• Sun cream.
• Sun hats.
• Spare clothing – with lots of climbing and sliding you may want a spare change of clothes in case you get a bit muddy!

Is there a cafe at Lilidorei?

Retro Bay Cafe is at Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden. Retro Bay Cafe is at Lilidorei at The Alnwick Garden.

When not to eat a courgette?

Go for courgettes that are firm, with bright, shiny and unblemished skin. If a courgette feels soft and looks dull, it usually means it's no longer fresh.

Is the Percy family still Catholic?

The Percy family was still largely Catholic, while Henry was at least nominally Protestant. When it became clear that the Protestant James VI of Scotland was likely to succeed Elizabeth, Henry sent Thomas Percy, a recent Catholic convert, on a secret mission to James's court three times in 1602.

Can you walk around Alnwick Castle without paying?

Route Description for Alnwick Castle and Gardens Walk

Additionally, this is a popular area for tourists, so you will definitely want to arrive early to secure parking. Those that want to explore the castle will need to pay a fee to do so.

Why shouldn't you touch Queen Anne's lace?

CAUTION: May cause phytophotodermatitis where sap touches the skin and is exposed to sunlight; wear long sleeves if handling. Also can easily be confused with the native, yet deadly, poison hemlock. Queen Anne's lace should be reported.

Does the Poison Garden have a gift shop?

The Gift Shop

From The Alnwick Garden branded souvenirs to our new 'No Pickin' No Lickin' range inspired by The Poison Garden. There is a range of products, perfect for gifts celebrating Northumberland and the local area with locally produced beers, fine foods, gifts, artwork and photography.

Is there a cafe at Alnwick gardens?

Located at entrance to Alnwick Garden. Good location and pleasant cafe, could be more interesting selection of food available. We have eaten lunch here a few times. The cafe/restaurant is in the great location in the Gardens and there are outdoor tables which are superb on a good day.

What is the best time to visit Lilidorei?

Lilidorei at Christmas: a local's experience

While Lilidorei is enchanting year-round, it becomes utterly magical at Christmas. As a local travel expert who's experienced Northumberland's best, I was there for Lilidorei's very first Christmas light switch-on, and it was pure festive magic.

Why is Lilidorei temporarily closed?

Please note that The Garden and Lilidorei are currently closed for annual maintenance, and will reopen next month. Click below for our reopening dates and times. We can't wait to welcome you all back soon!

How long do you get in Lilidorei?

Lilidorei Opening Times

We now know that Lilidorei will be open from 9am-7pm during school holidays (there may be reduced hours in term time but we will have to wait and see. Each session lasts 2 hours 45 minutes and you can book one of three sessions: 9am - 11:45am.

What is there to do at Lilidorei?

The main attraction at Lilidorei is the world's largest play structure. This consists of rope bridges, ladders, swings, 6 slides and many more things to do and explore. The tallest slide is 26 metres high and is an enclosed metal tunnel. There are nine clans which live in their houses in the vilage of Lilidorei.

Do you have to pay for parking at Alnwick gardens?

If using sat nav please follow NE66 3RA for the correct off-ramp on the A1 then follow signs for The Alnwick Garden. The Alnwick Garden car park is off Denwick Lane (B1340). The postcode for the car park is NE66 1FJ (parking charge is £3.50 per car per day).

Can I leave vinegar in my water fountain?

Vinegar can be used in fountain maintenance, but it should be treated as a cleaning aid rather than a permanent additive. Its acidic properties make it effective at loosening mineral deposits and breaking down surface algae, which explains why it remains popular among fountain owners who prefer natural options.