Bondgate Tower

Bondgate Tower is a three-story stone gate structure in Alnwick featuring a central arched passage with two polygonal towers flanking the entrance. The construction is solid and shows typical medieval gateway features with thick walls and a compact footprint designed to control access into town.

King Henry V granted permission to build the tower in 1434, and construction was completed around 1450 as part of Alnwick's defensive walls. The gate served as one of several fortified entrances protecting the town during the medieval period.

The tower takes its name from one of the medieval gateways into town, reflecting its importance as a defensive passage for Alnwick. Visitors can spot the Percy Lion emblems carved on the exterior, which mark the connection to the powerful family that controlled the region for centuries.

Modern vehicles must observe height restrictions when passing through the arch, as this is a narrow medieval passage designed for smaller traffic. Alternative routes exist for larger vehicles that cannot fit through the historic opening.

The tower is notable for its finely worked stonework that bears traces of repairs and modifications made across generations. These layers show how people adapted and maintained the structure to meet changing needs over the centuries.

Location: Alnwick

Part of: Alnwick town walls

GPS coordinates: 55.41260,-1.70374

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22