Skipton Castle
North Yorkshire, England
Key facts
- Operator
- Fattorini family
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Nearest station
- Skipton, 0.5 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW
Telephone 01756 792442
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
One of the most complete medieval castles in England, held by the Fattorini family after centuries of continuous occupation by earlier owners. The rooms are unfurnished, which some visitors find bare, but it leaves the fabric of the building - spiral stairs, thick walls, the conduit court - doing all the talking.
Worth the trip
The conduit court, where a yew tree planted after the castle's Civil War siege still grows in the middle of the stone circle.
Before you go
Ignore your satnav's last-mile directions - reviewers warn it can route you down a narrow lane that's hard to turn around in; aim for parking near the shops and cafes instead, and note the shop is pitched mainly at children.
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, welcoming staff at Skipton Castle and describe it as good value, with most spending around one to two hours exploring. Several mention plenty of steps and some narrow, uneven, dark sections, noting it may not suit visitors unsteady on their feet. The clean toilets and well-stocked gift shop are also mentioned positively more than once.
One of England's best-preserved medieval castles
“Had a lovely trip into Skipton when staying at a nearby Shepherd's hut. Decided to visit the castle while there.”- Kellie Cockcroft, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Did this then went to Cliffe Castle at Keighley (brilliant and free parking and entrance)…..don’t miss it.” - Ian Bradbury
- How long to allow
- “Allow 2 hours say in castle.” - Ian Bradbury
- Terrain & accessibility
- “Lots of steps to explore which might be worth being aware of Clean, tidy, onsite toilets and cafe.” - nikki wilson
- Facilities
- “Well worth the £12.50 entrance fee as you can stay there for a good couple of hours, exploring the castle, grounds, cafe, gift shop etc.” - Kellie Cockcroft
Common questions about Skipton Castle
Where is Skipton Castle?
Skipton Castle is in North Yorkshire, England, at The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AW.
Do you need a ticket to visit Skipton Castle?
Yes - Skipton Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Fattorini family. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Skipton Castle?
The conduit court, where a yew tree planted after the castle's Civil War siege still grows in the middle of the stone circle.
Is Skipton Castle a ruin or still intact?
Skipton Castle is largely intact - One of England's best-preserved medieval castles.
