In the last few years, the derelict 12 acre walled garden adjoining Alnwick Castle has been transformed into a contemporary, public garden where an underlying planted structure unifies the Garden’s themes – spectacular water displays and quiet contemplative areas.

The garden has attracted an enormous number of visitors and a new visitor centre was necessary to welcome and look after them. The new visitor facilities are divided into two separate buildings, linked by their relationship to the main entrance to the garden through the historic garden wall.

To the north of the wall (outside the garden) the ticket office, shop, cafe, information and interpretation area and the education centre are grouped around a courtyard that acts as the foyer. To the south of the wall (inside the garden) stands the Pavilion, a restaurant and function room arranged in two wings on either side of a covered terrace – a place from which to enjoy views of the garden in shelter and shade. Kitchens, WCs and back-up spaces are housed in a basement below.