Exploring Yorkshire’s Rich History: 10 Must-Visit Castles
Yorkshire, located in the north of England, is a region steeped in history and dotted with magnificent castles that tell tales of battles, royalty, and intrigue. From imposing fortresses to romantic ruins, Yorkshire’s castles offer a glimpse into the past and provide a fascinating day out for history enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore 10 must-visit castles in Yorkshire, each with its own unique story to tell.
1. York Castle
York Castle, also known as Clifford’s Tower, is a historic landmark in the city of York. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the castle has played a significant role in English history. Visitors can explore the medieval tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
York Castle Tourist Information Table
| Feature | Description | Open Hours (Today, March 11, 2024) | Admission Fee | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clifford’s Tower (remains of York Castle) | Explore the largest surviving part of the castle and enjoy panoramic views of York. | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Adults: £8.50, Discounts available | English Heritage: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower-york/ |
| York Castle Museum (built on former castle grounds) | Award-winning museum showcasing York’s history and culture. | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Free | York Castle Museum: https://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/ |
Additional Information
- Both locations are within walking distance of each other on Tower Street in York.
- On-site parking may be limited, consider public transport or walking if possible.
- Both locations have gift shops.
Tips
- Purchase a combo ticket for Clifford’s Tower and other English Heritage sites in York for a discounted price.
- Consider exploring the York City Walls for a broader historical experience.
Please note
- Opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is always best to check the official websites before your visit.
Key Features:
- Medieval tower with panoramic views
- Rich history dating back to the Norman conquest
- Guided tours and exhibitions
2. Castle Howard
Castle Howard is a stately home located near York, famous for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. Built in the 18th century, the castle is a prime example of Baroque architecture and has been featured in several films and TV shows. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors and stroll through the landscaped gardens.
Castle Howard Tourist Guide
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near York, North Yorkshire, England |
| Description | Stately home (large, historic house) in Baroque style, with extensive gardens and grounds |
| Opening Times | Generally open Wednesdays to Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays (check website for exact times as they can vary) |
| Admission | Adult tickets vary depending on the season and access options (house, gardens, tours etc.), child tickets available |
| Website | https://www.castlehoward.co.uk/ |
| Getting There | Located just off the A64, with car parking available. Public transport options are limited, but some bus services stop nearby. |
| Things to Do | – Tour the grand house and its state rooms |
- Explore the extensive formal gardens and woodlands
- Visit exhibitions and events
- Enjoy refreshments in cafes and restaurants
- Take a boat trip on the lake
Additional Information
- Castle Howard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The house has been featured in a number of films and television programmes, including Brideshead Revisited and Victoria.
- There are a number of on-site shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and food.
- Special events are held throughout the year, so check the website for details before your visit.
Key Features:
- Baroque architecture and opulent interiors
- Lush landscaped gardens
- Film and TV location
3. Skipton Castle
Skipton Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, located in the market town of Skipton. Built in the 11th century, the castle has survived sieges and battles throughout its history. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, dungeons, and ramparts, and learn about its fascinating past.
Skipton Castle Tourist Guide
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Skipton, North Yorkshire, England (at the top of the town’s High Street) |
| Type | Medieval Castle |
| Age | Over 900 years old (built in 1090) |
| Condition | Complete and well-preserved |
| Owner | Fattorini family |
| Open to the Public | Yes |
| Highlights |
- One of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England
- Withstood a three-year siege during the English Civil War
- Visitors can explore various rooms like the Banqueting Hall, Kitchen, Bedchamber, and even the Dungeon
- Watch Tower offers panoramic views
| Facilities | On-site shop, picnic area, new tea room | | Additional Information | - Self-guiding tour sheet available in 10 languages
- Regular events held
- https://www.skiptoncastle.co.uk/ |
Key Features:
- Well-preserved medieval architecture
- Towers, dungeons, and ramparts to explore
- Guided tours and historical reenactments
4. Bolton Castle
Bolton Castle is a stunning medieval fortress located in the Yorkshire Dales. Built in the 14th century, the castle has a rich history and has been used as a filming location for various movies and TV shows. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms, gardens, and enjoy falconry displays.
Bolton Castle Yorkshire: Tourist Guide Information Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England |
| Distance from nearest town (Leyburn) | 2 miles |
| Open | Saturday, March 2nd to Friday, November 1st (2024) |
| Hours | Not specified (recommend checking website for specific hours) |
| Admission | Tickets available on arrival (website recommends checking for current prices) |
| Website | Bolton Castle in Wensleydale, family days out, falconry and weddings: https://boltoncastle.co.uk/ |
| Historical Significance | One of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. Built between 1378-1399. Briefly housed Mary, Queen of Scots. |
| Architectural Style | Quadrangle castle |
| Things to Do | Explore the castle, falconry displays, archery experiences, gardens with maze and vineyard, tearoom, gift shop |
| Special Events | Easter Fun and Eggs, Living History Weekends (Medieval and Tudor), Ghost Hunt (April 6th, 2024), Wedding Fayre |
| Current Exhibition | Not specified (recommend checking website for current exhibitions) |
| Accessibility | May have limited accessibility due to the castle’s age and structure. Recommend checking website for details |
Additional Information:
- Bolton Castle is a Grade I listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument.
- Owned by the descendants of the original Scrope family.
Key Features:
- Medieval fortress with well-preserved rooms
- Beautiful gardens and grounds
- Falconry displays and events
5. Richmond Castle
Richmond Castle is a Norman fortress located in the town of Richmond. Built in the 11th century, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the River Swale. Visitors can explore the castle’s keep, walls, and learn about its role in English history.
Richmond Castle Yorkshire: Tourist Guide Information Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Richmond, North Yorkshire, England (Tower Street, DL10 4QW) |
| Description | One of the finest Norman castles in Britain, with breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales. |
| Opening Times | Daily, 10am – 4pm (check for seasonal variations) |
| Admission | Adult tickets available online or at the gate (booking online recommended for discount) |
| Highlights |
- 12th-century keep, 100 feet high |
- Interactive exhibition on the castle’s history |
- Secluded Cockpit Garden |
- Legend of King Arthur and his knights sleeping beneath the castle | | Managed by | English Heritage | | Website | English Heritage Richmond Castle: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/richmond-castle/ |
Key Features:
- Norman fortress with panoramic views
- Well-preserved keep and walls
- Interactive exhibits and guided tours
6. Helmsley Castle
Helmsley Castle is a medieval fortress located in the market town of Helmsley. Built in the 12th century, the castle has a turbulent history and has been the site of sieges and battles. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, towers, and enjoy views of the surrounding countryside.
Helmsley Castle Tourist Information Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Helmsley, North Yorkshire, England (within the North York Moors National Park) |
| Managed by | English Heritage |
| Opening Times | 10am to 4pm (October – March) |
| Admission Fee | Adults: £8.50 |
| Facilities | Audio Tours |
| Highlights | Impressive late 13th-century barbican gates |
| History | 12th-century castle |
| Nearby | Rievaulx Abbey |
| Website | English Heritage Helmsley Castle: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/helmsley-castle/ |
Key Features:
- Medieval fortress with dramatic ruins
- Towers to climb and explore
- Panoramic views of the countryside
7. Scarborough Castle
Scarborough Castle is a medieval fortress located on a headland overlooking the North Sea. Built in the 12th century, the castle has a strategic position and has played a key role in English history. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, walls, and enjoy views of the coastline.
Scarborough Castle Tourist Information Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Opening Hours | Generally 10:00am – 5:00pm, but times can vary seasonally. Check the official English Heritage website for the latest hours: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/scarborough-castle/ |
| Admission Fee | Adults: £6.80, Children (5-15): £4.10, Family (2 adults & up to 3 children): £17.00. Prices may vary, so check the English Heritage website for the latest information. |
| Time to Explore | Allow 1-2 hours to explore the castle grounds and exhibits. |
| Parking | Pay and display car parking is available nearby at the North and South Cliff car parks. |
| Accessibility | Uneven terrain throughout the castle grounds. Limited disabled access to some areas. Check the English Heritage website for accessibility information. |
| Highlights |
- Keep – Explore the 12th-century inner keep, offering panoramic views of Scarborough.
- Battery – Discover the gun battery and learn about the castle’s role in coastal defense.
- Exhibitions – Explore various exhibitions on the castle’s history and its role in English history.
- Grounds – Wander the extensive castle grounds and enjoy the scenic views. | | Additional Information |
- Gift shop – Souvenirs and refreshments are available at the on-site gift shop.
- Toilets – Public toilets are located within the castle grounds. |
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the castle grounds (weather permitting).
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Opening Hours | April 1st – September 30th: 10:00am – 5:00pm<br> October 1st – March 31st: 10:00am – 4:00pm (Closed on Christmas Day & New Year’s Day) |
| Admission | Adults: £6.50<br> Children (5-15): £4.80<br> Family (2 adults & 2 children): £18.20 |
| Website | English Heritage Scarborough Castle website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/scarborough-castle/ |
| Highlights | – Keep with panoramic views – Gatehouse and Barbican – Tudor & Medieval buildings – Exhibitions |
| Accessibility | Uneven terrain throughout the castle grounds. Limited disabled access. |
| Parking | Pay and display car park nearby. |
| Public Transport | Regular bus services stop near the castle. |
| Toilets | Available on site. |
| Gift Shop | Yes, selling souvenirs, books, and refreshments. |
| Additional Information | Dogs on leads are welcome. |
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a coat, especially during the colder months, as the location is exposed.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the views from the castle grounds (weather permitting).
Key Features:
- Medieval fortress with coastal views
- Ruins to explore and walls to walk along
- Interactive exhibits and events
8. Ripley Castle
Ripley Castle is a historic house located near Harrogate, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. Built in the 14th century, the castle has been home to the same family for over 700 years. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms, gardens, and enjoy guided tours of the estate.
Ripley Castle Yorkshire: Tourist Guide Information Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Grade I listed 14th-century country house |
| Location | Ripley, North Yorkshire, England (3 miles north of Harrogate) |
| Ownership | Private (Ingilby family – 6th Baronet) |
| Open to Public | Yes (grounds and gardens year-round, castle tours April to October) |
| Website | https://www.ripleycastle.co.uk/ |
| Activities | Guided castle tours, exploring gardens and grounds (walled gardens, hothouses, kitchen gardens, deer park, lake walk) |
| Amenities | Shops, eateries (check website for winter hours) |
| Parking | Available (check website for fees) |
Key Features:
- Historic house with well-preserved rooms
- Beautiful gardens and parkland
- Guided tours and events
9. Conisbrough Castle
Conisbrough Castle is a medieval fortress located in South Yorkshire, known for its impressive circular keep. Built in the 12th century, the castle has a rich history and has been featured in literature, including Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe. Visitors can explore the keep, walls, and learn about the castle’s past.
Conisbrough Castle Tourist Guide
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Conisbrough, South Yorkshire, England |
| Distance from Bogor Regency, Indonesia | Approximately 11,980 km (7,444 miles) [Travel distance and time may vary depending on the route] |
| Hours of Operation | * April to September: 9:30am to 5:00pm (last admission 4:15pm) * October to March: 10:00am to 4:00pm (last admission 3:15pm) * Closed on Fridays (except Good Friday) and 24th December to 26th December. |
| Admission Fee | * Adults: £6.50 * Children (5-15 years old): £5.00 * Concessions: £5.50 * Family (2 adults & up to 3 children): £18.00 * Prices subject to change, check official website for latest information. |
| Website | English Heritage: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/conisbrough-castle/ |
| Historical Significance | 12th century Norman castle, once owned by Geoffrey le Breton, who is believed to be the inspiration for Chaucer’s character, Geoffrey Chaucer in “The Wife of Bath’s Tale”. |
| Things to Do | Explore the keep, walk along the battlements, learn about medieval life, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. |
| Accessibility | Uneven floors and steep stairs throughout the castle make some areas inaccessible for wheelchairs and prams. Limited disabled parking available. Check website for more details. |
| Gift Shop | Yes, a small gift shop selling souvenirs and refreshments is located on site. |
Additional Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- Conisbrough Castle is a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds during peak season.
- There is limited parking available at the castle, so consider using public transportation or parking in town and walking to the castle.
- Picnics are not permitted within the castle grounds.
Key Features:
- Impressive circular keep and medieval architecture
- Interactive exhibits and guided tours
- Literary connections and historical significance
10. Knaresborough Castle
Knaresborough Castle is a ruined fortress located in the town of Knaresborough, overlooking the River Nidd. Built in the 12th century, the castle has a dramatic setting and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, dungeons, and learn about its history.
Knaresborough Castle Tourist Guide
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| History | 11th century Norman castle |
| Location | Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, England |
| Opening Hours | Ruins are accessible throughout the day |
| Admission Fee | Free entry |
| What to See | Castle ruins, panoramic views of the River Nidd, remains of the keep, gatehouse, and inner ward |
| Accessibility | Uneven terrain, some areas may be difficult for wheelchairs and strollers |
| Facilities | No toilets or cafes on site |
| Best Time to Visit | Clear day for best views |
| Things to Do Nearby | Explore Knaresborough town center, walk along the River Nidd, visit Mother Shipton’s Cave, take photos of the Knaresborough Viaduct |
| Website | While there isn’t an official website for Knaresborough Castle itself, you can find more information about the castle and Knaresborough on the Visit Knaresborough website: https://www.globaltreats.net/visit-knaresborough/ |
Key Features:
- Ruined fortress with dramatic setting
- Dungeons to explore and panoramic views
- Guided tours and historical information
Conclusion
Exploring Yorkshire’s rich history through its castles is a fascinating journey through time. From Norman fortresses to medieval ruins, each castle has its own unique story to tell and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoy exploring historic sites, Yorkshire’s castles are sure to captivate and inspire. So, plan your visit to these 10 must-visit castles and immerse yourself in the rich history of Yorkshire.