The Dirty Bottles

The Dirty Bottles lies between Alnwick’s marketplace and the bailey of the castle that is home to the Duke of Northumberland and the set of Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. The entrance to Alnwick Garden is a five-minute stroll through town. Don’t be put off by the grubby sounding name. Dusty glassware in the pub window is associated with a grisly tale from two centuries ago. Moving the bottles reputedly caused the sudden death of the innkeeper. His widow suggested that a similar misfortune would befall anyone who dares shift them, explaining why they remain untouched. Elsewhere the interiors are – as you’d expect – impressively clean. All four bedrooms have an opulent look and feel, including coffee machines with pods for making espressos. Neatly designed, the rooms also feature the likes of gilt headboards, leather armchairs and vintage-style patterned wallpaper. One room features a modern interpretation of a four-poster bed. They have smart televisions with large screens and all but one bathroom has a bathtub to soak in as well as walk-in showers. Rooms are not dog-friendly but pet dogs are welcome into the atmospherically illuminated pub with stone walls and a broad selection of regional ales. It’s a good place to spend time if you appreciate a good pint. Beer barrels and exposed floorboards are part of the pub’s modern take on rustic. The eclectic menu includes a variety of hot dogs plus American-style smokehouse dishes, including brisket, pulled pork and sweet potato fries.