One of the most complete medieval castles in England, fully roofed behind its round-towered gatehouse at the head of Skipton High Street
Open to visitorscheck opening times and admission before you go
Standing remainssubstantial fabric survives to stand in front of
Skipton is unusual among English castles for being all there. Where most are romantic shells, this one keeps its roofs, floors and staircases, so a visit runs from the dungeon to the watch-tower through rooms that are still whole. The Clifford family held it for centuries; it was besieged for three years in the Civil War, one of the last Royalist strongholds in the north to fall, and afterwards Lady Anne Clifford repaired it — planting a yew in the central courtyard that still grows there. Her family motto, “Désormais”, is carved over the gate.
Being roofed, it makes a good wet-weather visit. It is privately owned and open all year on a paid ticket, standing at the top of the High Street a few minutes from the station. The Yorkshire Dales begin just to the north, and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal threads through the town below.
