Bolton Castle
Castle Bolton
A 14th-century square castle where Mary, Queen of Scots, was once imprisoned, with a medieval garden and maze in its grounds.
Castle Bolton was built between 1379 and 1399 by the Scrope family. Its square corner towers are well preserved. In 1568–1569 Mary, Queen of Scots, was held here under house arrest for about six months. The castle is still owned by descendants of the Scrope family. Visitors can see the great hall, kitchens, dungeons and Queen Mary's bedchamber. In summer there are falconry displays, archery and crossbow sessions. Outside are a medieval herb garden and a maze. Admission is about £12, and the castle is open roughly 10:00–17:00, though it is mostly closed in winter. It is about 3 km from Aysgarth Falls.
Opening hours
~10:00–17:00 (partly closed in winter)
Nearby sights
- Aysgarth Falls
- How Stean Gorge
- Muker & Swaledale Meadows
- Richmond Castle
- Kisdon Force
- Kilnsey Crag
- Hawes & Dales Countryside Museum
- Buttertubs Pass