Skipton Castle

A remarkable tribute to master craftsmen, Skipton Castle still stands today complete and habitable after 900 years at the head of the bustling High Street of Skipton.

A major stronghold of the powerful Clifford Lords saw them participating in all the major battles; from Bannockburn to Crecy; Agincourt to the Wars of the Roses. George Clifford, 3rd Earl of Cumberland became Queen's Champion to Elizabeth I distinguishing himself against the Spanish Armada, as well as ransoming Puerto Rico.

The castle was restored after the Civil War by Lady Anne Clifford who planted the Yew tree which still survives in the beautiful Conduit Court 350 years later. Above the imposing Gatehouse with its four strong towers, the motto of the Cliffords is still strong and clear, Desormais, Henceforth.

Visit our website for dates of our re-enactments and come along (in costume if you want) and participate in life in medieval times, see knights and armour and enjoy the mock battles and if you can't wait for your visit, why not have a preview and make your own cut-out model of the Gatehouse or kitchen scene or become Lady Anne Clifford or George, 3rd Earl of Cumberland with your own facemask. Art is made easy with various scenes to colour in and to make the brain work harder, a wordsearch! It's all there for your entertainment.

Bring your picnic and enjoy a great day out.

The Clifford Tearoom at Skipton Castle serves home made soup, cakes and light lunches, teas, coffee and ice creams are available from the shop adjoining the tearoom.

All food prepared from locally sourced produce. Please check when ordering.

Prints, postcards, pencils, notepads, erasers, icecream, confectionery, Charlie Bears and a well stocked book section.

There are toilet facilities available but no disabled toilets. Baby changing facilities can be arranged – ask in reception.

We do not sell baby foods but milk can be warmed in a microwave oven.

From M1 (travelling north) M1, M62 west, M606 to Bradford, A650 to Keighley, A629 to Skipton. From M6 (travelling north) M65 to end, A56 to Skipton. From M6 (travelling south) A65 to Skipton By Train 125 from London to Leeds and Bradford Frequent trains from Leeds and Bradford to Skipton There is also a direct service from Kings Cross, London to Skipton.

Although the castle is unsuitable for pushchairs, we are happy to look after them for you in the reception area. The castle is an all weather attraction as a lot is under cover. All under 16s must be supervised. There is no wheelchair access in to the Castle and those with mobility problems should be aware that there are many steps and spiral staircases.

If you've had fun on your family day out to Skipton Castle, tell us about it your visit, so other people will know it's a great place to go as well.