Pickering Castle
A Norman motte-and-bailey castle ruin in the market town at the southern end of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Pickering Castle was ordered built by William the Conqueror. Its surviving stone walls, towers and motte-top keep were expanded in the 13th and 14th centuries, and it was once a royal hunting lodge. Climbing the motte offers views over Pickering town and the moor edge. Pickering is the southern starting station of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and the castle is about a 10-minute walk from the station, so it suits a visit before or after a steam train ride. Entry costs about £8 and the site is managed by English Heritage.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–17:00 (some winter days closed)
Nearby sights
- Flamingo Land
- Eden Camp Modern History Museum
- Hole of Horcum
- Dalby Forest
- North York Moors National Park
- Ryedale Folk Museum
- North Yorkshire Moors Railway (Goathland)
- Falling Foss