Skipton
As the gateway to the magnificent Yorkshire Dales, people travel the length and breadth of the country to visit this charming market town. With its famous 900 year old castle, romantic ruined priory and historic cobbled High Street, Skipton is endlessly rich both in history and outstanding natural beauty.
At 900 years old, this is one of the most complete and best preserved mediaeval castles in England.
For a journey into the past take a steam train through The Dales from Embsay station, built in 1888.
From formal gardens to a bedrock limestone rock garden, these gardens are a must see for all green fingered visitors.
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Local Secrets...
A walk in the woods
For over 900 years Skipton Wood provided fuel, building materials and food for the inhabitants of Skipton Castle. Why not explore it? There are footpaths to guide you round.
A castle as the centrepiece
You can't fail to be impressed by the symphony of historical treasures that Skipton has to offer. The grand 11th Century Skipton Castle forms a dramatic centrepiece to this bustling market town and proudly overlooks a colourful orchestra of quaint streets, ancient woodland and famous waterways.
By land or by waterway
Many of the town's attractions are linked by the Millennium Walk route, making it easy to navigate around. Take a short stroll along the Springs Branch canal which runs beneath the castle ramparts into Skipton Woods, watch the world go by as you relax on a Leeds-Liverpool canal cruiser or you could even take the helm yourself.
The Dales on your doorstep
With the beautiful Dales beckoning from Skipton's edge, it's time to venture further afield. Why now allow yourself to be swept along by a steam locomotive from nearby Embsay station. Just a stone's throw away from the romantic Bolton Abbey estate, you'll be transported into a landscape bursting with natural beauty as far as the eye can see.
A train through time and space
All aboard for an exciting steam train ride! Built in 1888, Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway is the perfect place to start your journey out into the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. We recommend hopping off at Bolton Abbey station for refreshments at the estate's Cavendish Pavillion or maybe a picnic on the banks of the crystal clear River Wharfe. Look out for special train events that include 1940s Weekend and All Aboard with Ivor the Engine.
Take to the skies or take to the water
As a special treat, why not go up, up and away in a hot air balloon. You'll get a whole new perspective of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is Nidderdale, and enjoy a bird's eye view of its neighbouring attractions from Skipton Castle across to the 12th Century ruins of Bolton Abbey priory. A more down to earth way to see Yorkshire is to take the Leeds-Liverpool Canal with Pennine Boat Trips of Skipton and take in the serene countryside as you idle through the locks.
Beautiful gardens and cliff walks
For a grand day out, Parcevall Hall Gardens has sights, sounds and delightful aromas not to be missed. The gardens were laid out by the late Sir William Milner and are planted with exotic specimens from as far away as China and the Himalayas - all set against the stunning backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales. As well as being a local celebrity, Parcevall Hall Gardens has also appeared on our TV screens in 'Escape to the Country' and 'Hairy Bikers'.
From lunch breaks to fine dining
Whether you're returning from a day in the Dales or want to fuel up before you hit the castle, Skipton has a fantastic array of places to eat and drink. So take a seat for some award-winning fish and chips, settle into a pint of fine ale or say hola to a tasty Mexican dish down the High Street. Cafés, pubs and restaurants galore are all within a hop, skip and a jump.
The best fish and chips
Who can resist the enticing smell of fresh fish and chips, dressed in lashings of salt and vinegar? For a real lunch time treat, follow your nose and head for Bizzie Lizzie's - officially awarded 'best fish and chips in the country' by the Sea Fish Industry Authority. Take away and eat while you browse the markets or savour the taste at a more leisurely pace in the restaurant.
Posh nosh
Skipton is rather famous for its outdoor market, selling all sorts of tasty treats including fresh seasonal veg and old fashioned sweets. But if you're in the mood for more formal dining, dress up and head to one of the fine restaurants in and around the town. Relax in one of Nosh Brasserie's beautiful dining rooms and enjoy some tapas or drive over to the Michellin Starred Burlington Restaurant at the Devonshire Arms Country House Hotel for one of the head chef's gastronomic masterpieces set by the majestic Bolton Abbey.
Run wild and free
Kids love running wild and free in the countryside. So with the Dales on your doorstep, the forecast is always good for a rural stomp whether it's in wellies, walking shoes or sandals. Or trot over to Skipton's marina and follow the Eller Beck behind the castle and over to Skipton Woods - there's a bountiful collection of plants and animals to captivate the whole family.
Animal magic
Animal lovers are in for a treat at Thornton Hall Farm Country Park as they meet the residents at this delightful working farm. Join in and bottle feed lambs and calves or go for a ride on the Farm Safari, giant caterpillar or ride-on tractors. There's more hands-on fun at Hesketh Farm Park, with pigs begging to be brushed and eggs waiting to be collected. And don't miss hitching a ride with Farmer Chris on his Tractor & Trailer tour.
Arty farty fun
Calling all budding artists for another great family day out. Coffee and Clay is a friendly pottery café giving crafty types the chance to splash the paint around as they design their own plate, mug or even piggy bank. It's a wonderful holiday souvenir to take back home and gives you a chance to relax in the café while the kids have a roaring good time.
Castles in the sky
It's only a matter of time before you succumb to the ancient charms of Skipton Castle. And why not! Over 900 years old, this is one of the most complete and best preserved mediaeval castles in England. You're free to explore every historic nook and cranny; peek into the Banqueting Hall, roam around the Kitchen and Bedchamber and climb from the depths of the Dungeon to the lofty heights of the Watch Tower.
Behold the romantic ruins
History and legend are also waiting to be discovered in the ruins of Bolton Abbey's 12th Century priory. If you enter the estate through the hole in the wall, the romantic ruins literally lay in wait for your arrival as you descend the old steps and go back in time. Don't forget your camera as there are photo opportunities at every turn - just be sure to pop it safely away before you cross the famous stepping stones to join the riverside walk!
Entertaining old traditions
Granted market rights by King John in 1204, today's market town is still a hub of activity and proud of its traditions. Sheep Day is an event to behold with sheep dog trials, sheep shearing, vintage tractors and even an old ducking stool. Depending when you visit, you may encounter Skipton's riotous gala or Waterways Festival or time it perfectly to experience the famous Yuletide Market, complete with a High Street procession.
Britain's Best Street winner
In the past, Skipton has beaten the likes of Portobello Road and Kensington High Street to win Britain's Best Street of the Year - so a big thumbs up for shopping lovers. What we really love about this Dales market town is its diversity; offering clothes, homeware, deli foods and souvenirs that attract both local people and tourists alike.
An arcade with a difference
Craven Court is Skipton's Victorian themed shopping arcade. Praised by Prince Charles for its architecture, the beautiful painted ironwork and stunning clear glass roof make for a unique and enchanting shopping experience. As well as some popular High Street names, you'll also find more unusual shops selling everything from German woodcraft and silver jewellery to the locally renowned The Stamp Man.
Secrets of the side streets
Surrounding the High Street and Victorian covered arcade are a myriad of narrow side streets and alleys that are the keepers of more shopping treasures. So have your reusable shopping bag to hand as you explore beyond the beaten track and go in search of those 'interesting independents' and 'one-off boutiques' that are often the real jewel in the crown for more adventurous shoppers.
Popular
Skipton Castle
Over 900 years old and one of the most complete examples of a medieval castle in England, a visit to this magnificent castle is like stepping back in time.
Thornton Hall Farm
A family friendly day out, there's lots for all the family to enjoy including getting up close to a few cheeky animals!
The Devonshire Arms
This beautiful hotel is a lovely place to stop off for some cake and a cream tea. Or why not stay for longer and enduldge yourself with a visit to the luxury health spa.
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