Day 12 in the UK: Hogwart's is Calling!

Day 12 in the UK: Hogwart's is calling! Today was another amazing day in the UK! 

Another day trip out of Newcastle, this time to Alnmouth train station, and then a local bus to Alnwick (pronounced Annick). We visited Alnwick Castle, anchestral and current family home of the Duke of Northumberland, but also recognizable as Hogwarts from Harry Potter, Brancaster Castle from Downton Abbey, as well as other movies and shows. 

Right from the moment we got to the castle, it was exciting! We got our ticket for Broomstick Training, then we could explore the castle grounds and museums on site. 

Broomstick training was an absolute blast! Our professors were lovely: entertaining and funny! And learning to levitate and ride a broom was amazing and so magical! By far, one of the most fun things I've done on this trip! I feel I'm ready for Hogwarts, having had my first class and crushing it 

After Broomstick training, we checked out the castle state rooms. Getting the opportunity to explore the actual rooms the family live in was incredible. So much history and so much grandeur to see, but also recognizing it from Downton Abbey. The library was straight out of the Beauty and the Beast story (2 story stacks of books) but can also be seen in Downton Abbey Christmas special. It was just incredible (no photos though, not allowed since it is a residence). 

Then it was a spot of lunch in a castle courtyard before going on to a guided tour of the movie and tv appearances. The guide was hilarious and his descriptions made the scenes stand out so clearly. It was awesome! 

And that was our trip to Alnwick. We hopped back on the bus and train to Newcastle. But we stopped at Olive & Bean to grab sustenance for tonight and tomorrow morning. I had a spectacular falafel and mango chutney toasted wrap (it was falafel-ly good) with an Autumn Amaretto Tiffin, a Salted Caramel Slice, Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, and a Lemon Blueberry muffin for breakfast tomorrow. Excessive, yes. Justified, absolutely. 

So, today has been magical. Tomorrow, we move on to Edinburgh for the second last stage of my trip. Very excited!! 

P.S. after much thought and consideration, we've determined my house is Hufflepuff. "Hufflepuff was the most inclusive among the four houses, valuing hard work, dedication, patience, loyalty, and fair play rather than a particular aptitude in its members." I think that's me to a tee!