Richmond Castle

Richmond Castle was originally built to subdue the unruly North of England and is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain, great for visiting with the kids for either a history fix or an imaginative exercise, with all but one outbuilding being medievally erected.

Experience the interactive exhibition before taking a peaceful stroll round the secluded Cockpit Garden. It's a point of historical interest for older types that the specifically placed topiaries represent the 16 conscientious objectors who were imprisoned within the castle during the First World War!

Pretty but less morally significant wild flowers and perennials plus great formal landscaping and scented climbers like honeysuckle mean it's an awesome spot for some family photos so dress nicely and bring the camera!

A fun and exciting events programme will give you the perfect chance to enjoy live action events and make a day of it with a picnic. There are seven picnic benches as well as plenty of other benches around the site. Enjoy breathtaking views over the River Swale and picturesque market town of Richmond.

There's also places to get refreshments in the Market Place but there's also a hot drink vending machine plus cold drinks and various snacks available in the shop if you can't wait. There's an accessible unisex toilet in the visitor centre though, so you don't have to travel for that!

Before you set off, go to the website through our link and download the Step Inside Activity Pack too, to help keep little ones amused! It's worth noting that there's no parking here, the nearest is at the Market Place.