As the mercury drops and the clocks are set to turn back, wanderlust Brits face a choice: chase the winter sun abroad or opt for a quaint autumnal staycation in the UK.

Northumberland, perched at the pinnacle of England, boasts some popular staycation spots, including the tranquil village of Corbridge and Bamburgh, crowned as the UK’s “best seaside resort”.

Alnwick, a “fairytale” market town nestled in Northumberland, is another gem waiting to be explored.

With roots stretching back to the 7th century, Alnwick blossomed from a traditional market town into a vibrant hub, thanks in no small part to the grandeur of Alnwick Castle, a medieval fortress commanding views over the River Aln.

To fend off Scottish incursions, the town was encircled by a formidable wall, punctuated by four gateways, with two still standing tall today.

One of these, Pottergate Tower, has been converted into an opulent holiday rental, offering guests a unique vista of the castle.

And for Harry Potter enthusiasts, Alnwick Castle might strike a chord of nostalgia, having served as a backdrop for Hogwarts in both the Philosopher’s Stone and the Chamber of Secrets films, reports the Mirror.

Harry and his schoolmates honed their broomstick flying skills on the Outer Bailey, which also served as Harry’s training ground for Quidditch.

As you wander around the castle’s courtyards and baileys, you’ll recognise them as the backdrop for numerous scenes featuring Harry, Ron, and Hermione en route to class, Hagrid’s hut, and the Forbidden Forest.

Another must-see in the town is Alnwick Gardens, a modern garden boasting everything from water features and a bamboo maze to treetop walkways and a separate garden teeming with deadly plants. 

The gardens are also home to the world’s largest treehouse.

The 6,000sqft structure, aptly named The Treehouse, doubles as a unique restaurant and wedding venue, complete with rope bridges, fairy lights, and handcrafted furniture.