When spring is in full bloom in Northumberland, there are many botanical delights to behold. Daffodils surround our castles, rhododendrons create bursts of colour amongst our gardens, tulips open up to the sunshine overhead, and the largest collection of white cherry blossoms line The Alnwick Garden…
Yes, you read it right, The Alnwick Garden grows over 300 Japanese cherry trees (officially named Taihaku) in their cherry orchard from the end of April to the beginning of May. While many travel to the likes of Tokyo, Mount Fuji and Japanese islands such as Okinawa to view cherry blossoms, we have them on our doorstep.
Where to stay to see them
Stay in
Alnwick so that you're within easy reach of The Alnwick Garden.
Village Farm Cottages' two farms enjoy a tranquil rural setting and provide an ideal holiday base for exploring Alnwick. Or, named after the Inn in Harry Potter books, the
Hog’s Head Inn is just a short drive from Alnwick and is a superb place to eat, drink, sleep and explore.
The Old Rectory Howick is another excellent option, just ten minutes from Alnwick in the staggering coastal location of Howick.
How to ‘Hanami’…
Every year, Japanese locals come together for ‘Hanami’, which directly means ‘flower-viewing’ but usually refers to when groups of family/ friends/ colleagues get together to admire the cherry blossoms. Hanami is rarely done without a picnic, and the tradition involves munching on picnic treats beneath the dazzling trees. We have put together a little guide on How to ‘Hanami’ so that you can have a taste of Japan in Northumberland.
Step 1) Head to The Alnwick Garden with your friends or family (please ensure your visit is in line with the government roadmap).
Step 2) Roll up your picnic blanket, gather your plates, cutlery, cups and flask and buy some delicious food from The Alnwick Garden’s café to put in your picnic basket. Or, keep the Japanese theme and pack your basket at home with traditional Japanese snacks such as sushi rolls, ongiri and tamagoyaki.
Step 3) Find a spot that offers a stunning view of the cherry blossoms – maybe somewhere along the sloping grass down to the orchard itself. Or, set yourselves up on one of the romantic swinging benches in the cherry orchard (we hold no responsibility for motion sickness!).
Step 4) Enjoy your food with the enchanting, fluttering white cherry blossoms as your backdrop. Wander through the cherry orchard – you might spot some ladies wearing kimonos passing through the gardens.
Step 5) Continue the Japanese theme and head to Bari Tea Brewery in Alnwick for a cup of soothing, loose-leaf tea. Or, visit Bari Tea Brewery beforehand and take it with you to your picnic. This century old drink has fantastic health benefits and its sweet, yet earthy, flavour.
If your Hanami lasts into the evening, you could head to one of Alnwick’s many restaurants such as the Cookie Jar or why not find a place to stay in Alnwick for a night or two! You’ll be able to enjoy all of the magic that Alnwick has to offer, including the wondrous world of Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle, as well as the fairy mysteries of Lilidorei.
So, what are you waiting for - invite your friends, pack up your picnic and view the cherry blossoms at The Alnwick Garden.