| New for 2006 is The Pavilion and Visitor Centre, stunning contemporary buildings designed by Sir Michael Hopkins. Sitting beautifully within The Garden's landscape and providing world-class visitor facilities, The Pavilion and Visitor Centre house places to eat, drink, shop and relax. There's free entry to The Visitor Centre and its facilities, so it's a great place to stop for coffee and to buy plants, local produce and gifts, and find out more about the region.
The new Pavilion building is built against the backdrop of the 18th century wall and on the site of the original 19th century pavilion of which only the base remains. The Pavilion has been designed by Sir Michael Hopkins using a blend of wood, steel and mellow stone to provide exciting multi-function venues for exhibitions, parties, weddings, receptions, corporate evenings, conferences, canape and wine evenings alongside an assisted service visitor cafe where fantastic home- made cakes, sandwiches and light meals can be enjoyed.
The Visitor Centre provides a spectacular check-in and information point for visitors. Upon entry, visitors stand in a courtyard where mellow stone tiles glisten with thousands of tiny lights, surrounded by an innovative and contemporary timber barrel vaulted structure.
The Visitor Centre sits just outside the Walled Garden and is inextricably linked through design to The Pavilion within the Walled Garden. It provides a multi-functional space for exhibitions, conferences, learning activities, interpretation and events. There is also a small coffee bar within the Visitor Centre with indoor and outdoor seating.
A gift and garden shop sell a range of gifts, fantastic local produce, gardening goods and plants, including the fabulous Alnwick Rose.
The Courtyard will be used throughout the year for exhibitions, performances and concerts.
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