Skipton Castle

Leave behind the bustle of the High Street and stroll through the mighty four tower Gateway of Skipton Castle and enter another world.

How many periods of history can you see by looking at the main castle building – who built it – how did they manage to lift the huge blocks of stone and how did the Steward of the household know who and how much to pay the builders? Look closely at the walls and you will see various marks – to what do these refer?

Entering the coolness of the beautiful Conduit Court one is immediately struck by the twisted trunk of the Yew Tree at its centre – planted by Lady Anne Clifford in 1659 this tree twists as it reaches for the daylight.

In the old kitchen note the bread oven and massive baking hearth – how does it compare to today’s modern kitchen? Who would work in here, what did they wear – remember it was extremely hot as the fires would be kept in all the time.

Beyond the kitchen the Banqueting Hall where the Lord, his Lady and their guests would be served their meals following which the ladies would retire to their needlework leaving the men to drink ale and chat heartily recalling their hunting adventures of the day.

With many rooms to discover, no tour would be complete without a visit to the dungeon in the depths of the castle where prisoners would be kept awaiting their trial at York Assizes.

Finally, to complete your visit, why not enjoy a cup of tea and a homemade cake in our bright, cheerful tearoom and browse in the shop for that unusual gift or enjoy our noted book section.

Plenty of historical events and re-enactments throughout the year – click here for more information.