Skipton Castle
One of England's best-preserved medieval castles, with a yew tree in its inner courtyard said to be about 370 years old, in the market town at the gateway to the Dales.
Skipton Castle was begun in 1090 and has been held by the Clifford family since the 14th century. During the English Civil War it held out for three years before surrendering, after which Cromwell ordered its roofs removed. It was later restored by Lady Anne Clifford, which is why its structure survives so intact. Visitors can explore the banqueting hall, kitchens, dungeons and watchtowers. The yew tree at the centre of the inner courtyard, 'Conduit Court', is said to have been planted in 1659. Admission is about £12, and the castle is open roughly 10:00–17:00 (until 16:00 in winter). It stands at the top of Skipton's High Street, and the town offers canal boat trips and street markets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–17:00 (until 16:00 in winter)