Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle

📍 The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW, UK

About Skipton Castle

Step into a living chapter of England's past at Skipton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the country. Nestled proudly above the bustling market town of Skipton, this remarkable fortress invites visitors to explore centuries of history within its ancient walls. Its enduring appeal is reflected in its excellent Google rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, garnered from thousands of positive reviews.

Visitors consistently praise the castle for its incredible state of preservation, noting how you can truly feel the history embedded in every stone. Unlike many ruins, Skipton Castle remains almost intact, offering a unique opportunity to journey through its various chambers at your own pace. You're free to wander around, discovering fascinating areas such as the dark dungeon, the bustling medieval kitchen, and the stately bedchambers, each with informative signs to guide your exploration.

What to Discover:

  • Explore a remarkably preserved medieval castle
  • Wander through the historic dungeon, kitchen, and bedchambers
  • Experience a palpable sense of history in every corner
  • Enjoy a self-guided tour at your leisure

Skipton Castle provides an enjoyable and immersive look into a brilliant piece of history, making it a truly memorable day out for all ages. Family tickets are available, ensuring everyone can experience the grandeur and tales of this magnificent Yorkshire landmark.

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📍 The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW, UK

4.5

from 5,251 reviews

Google Reviews

Reviews from Google Maps.

Showing 5 of 5,251 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 8 February 2026.View all on Google →

Anonymous
5/5

Visiting Skipton Castle today felt like stepping gracefully into a living chapter of England’s storied past. Rising proudly above its surroundings, the castle possesses a quiet, enduring grandeur that immediately captures the heart. Its weathered stone walls, ancient archways, and immaculately kept grounds create an atmosphere where history does not merely linger — it breathes. Wandering through its corridors, one cannot help but admire the exquisite preservation of this medieval fortress. Every room, every vault, and every spiral stair whispers tales of resilience and nobility. Sunlight filtering through narrow windows casts soft patterns across the stone floors, lending a poetic stillness to the place. The courtyard, with its venerable yew tree standing sentinel for centuries, feels nothing short of enchanting. The staff deserve the highest praise. Their warmth, courtesy, and genuine passion for the castle enriched the experience immeasurably. They carried a quiet pride in sharing their knowledge, answering questions with patience and charm. Their presence added a welcoming human touch to the grandeur of the site. Access to the castle was wonderfully straightforward, with clear signage and well-kept paths that made the visit smooth and stress-free. Whether travelling alone, with family, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into history, one can reach and explore the castle with absolute ease. Skipton Castle is not merely a tourist attraction — it is a beautiful encounter with heritage, artistry, and the enduring strength of time. I left with a sense of awe and gratitude, carrying with me the gentle magic of a place that truly honours its past. A must-visit, and a memory I shall hold dear.

Anonymous
5/5

Really enjoyable look around this brilliant piece of history, you are left to walk around at your leisure which is good lots of signs explaining everything. Dog friendly which is great. It has a good car park which is a bit of a walk from the entrance but not a problem and it's something like £4.50 for the day so ideal for looking around Skipton town centre after the castle. The castle is literally 1 minute walk away.

Anonymous
5/5

Absolutely beautiful, magical place, it was so interesting walking through room, feel the history, a bit of mystery. We all really enjoyed the visit.

Anonymous
4/5

I love castles and Skipton castle is well preserved. Half of the castle is a private home ...the rest of the castle is open to the paying public and is small. The rooms are disappointingly empty...I think they could get furniture, weapons, suits of armour, period dress etc to make them look period and a bit more interesting...visitors can move around at their leisure. There is a gift shop toilets and tea room. There is also a car park close by which is part of the castle grounds.

Anonymous
5/5

Loved the history behind the castle was bigger than initially thought. You get a map to follow when walking around gives you more information on history of the rooms. Beautiful preserved castle and grounds. Dogs are welcome in castle just not in shop and tea room but there is plenty of seating around. Kids under 5 go free takes about an hour or 2 to walk round castle slowly not include grounds.