Things to do in Skipton

Located in North Yorkshire, Skipton is a charming market town that offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or soak up some local culture, Skipton has something to offer. Here are the top 8 things to do in Skipton.

Skipton Castle

What is it?
Skipton Castle is a historic medieval castle located in the market town of Skipton in North Yorkshire, England. The castle was built in 1090 as a wooden motte-and-bailey structure by Robert de Romille, a Norman baron who was granted land in the area by William the Conqueror. In the 12th century, the castle was rebuilt in stone by the Clifford family, who held the castle for over 350 years.

Skipton Castle is a well-preserved example of a medieval castle, featuring a 12th-century keep, a 14th-century banqueting hall, and a 17th-century gatehouse. The castle also has a beautiful courtyard, a chapel, and a museum that houses displays of weapons, furniture, and artwork.

Why should you go?
Skipton Castle is a must-visit destination for history lovers and anyone interested in medieval architecture. The castle's impressive keep, which stands at 80 feet tall, provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the castle's dungeon, which is a fascinating insight into the harsh realities of life in the castle's early days.

The castle's banqueting hall is another highlight, featuring a beautiful stone fireplace and a stunning roof made of wooden beams. Visitors can also admire the castle's impressive collection of antique furniture and artwork, including a set of tapestries that were made in Brussels in the 17th century.

For families with children, Skipton Castle offers a fun and educational experience. Children can dress up in medieval costumes and participate in a variety of activities, including archery and sword fighting. The castle also hosts special events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments, ghost tours, and Christmas markets.

The Craven Museum & Gallery

What is it?
The Craven Museum & Gallery is a local history museum located in Skipton, North Yorkshire, England. The museum was established in 1928 and is housed in a historic building known as the Skipton Town Hall. It features exhibits on the history and culture of the Craven District, which includes Skipton and surrounding areas.

Why should you go?
The Craven Museum & Gallery is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the local history and culture of the area. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the geology and natural history of the region to its social and economic development over the centuries. There are also exhibits on notable local figures and events, as well as displays of art and craft from the area.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Skipton Castle exhibit, which features artifacts and information on the castle's history and its importance to the local area. The museum also has a collection of historic photographs and documents, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the past of the Craven District.

The museum is well-maintained and staffed by friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to answer questions and provide additional information. Admission is free, although donations are always appreciated to support the museum's ongoing work.

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

What is it?
The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway is a heritage railway line that runs for approximately 4 miles from Embsay to Bolton Abbey in North Yorkshire, England. The line follows the River Wharfe and passes through beautiful countryside, including the picturesque Bolton Abbey estate.

Why should you go?
The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway is a popular attraction for visitors to Skipton and the surrounding area. Riding on a steam train is a unique experience, and the beautiful countryside scenery makes it even more enjoyable. Along the way, passengers can admire the views of the River Wharfe and the stunning Bolton Abbey estate. The train also stops at Holywell Halt, which is a great starting point for walks in the surrounding countryside.

Aside from the train ride itself, the railway also has a variety of special events throughout the year, such as Santa Specials at Christmas time and Steam and Diesel Gala events. There is also a gift shop and tearoom at the Embsay station, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.

The Skipton Canal Basin

What is it?
The Skipton Canal Basin is a historic waterway located in the heart of Skipton. It was originally built in 1794 as part of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which stretches over 127 miles from Leeds to Liverpool and is one of the longest canals in the country. The canal basin was used to transport goods to and from Skipton, and was an important hub for trade and commerce in the area.

Why should you go?
The Skipton Canal Basin is a popular attraction for visitors to the town. It offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich history of the canal and its role in the local economy. Visitors can take a stroll along the canal towpath, enjoy a boat trip or simply sit and watch the narrowboats come and go.

One of the main attractions of the canal basin is the canal-side shops and cafes. Here, visitors can browse a range of independent shops selling local crafts, gifts and souvenirs, or stop for a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the many cafes and restaurants. The area also hosts regular markets and events throughout the year, including the popular Skipton Waterway Festival.

Another must-see attraction at the Skipton Canal Basin is the canal boat trips. Visitors can take a leisurely trip along the canal on one of the many narrowboats that operate from the basin. These trips offer a unique perspective on the town and its surroundings, as well as a chance to learn more about the canal's history and its importance to the area.

Aireville Park

What is it?
Aireville Park is a large public park located in Skipton, North Yorkshire. The park covers over 30 acres and features a variety of recreational facilities.

Why should you go?
Aireville Park is an excellent destination for anyone looking to spend some time outdoors and enjoy nature. The park features beautiful green spaces and a variety of walking and cycling trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also several playgrounds and sports facilities, including a skate park, basketball court, and football pitches, making it an ideal spot for families and sports enthusiasts.

Additionally, the park hosts several events throughout the year, such as outdoor movie screenings and live music performances.

Other notable features of Aireville Park include a fitness trail, a sensory garden, and a bird sanctuary. The park is also home to Aireville Park Café, a popular spot for a coffee or a bite to eat while enjoying the park's beautiful surroundings.

The Mart Theatre

What is it?
The Mart Theatre is a performing arts venue located in the heart of Skipton. It is a small, intimate theatre that hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, comedy shows, and live music performances.

Why should you go?
If you're a fan of live theatre, The Mart is definitely worth a visit. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and provides an up-close and personal experience with the performers. The theatre hosts a range of shows, from classic dramas to modern comedies, so there is something to suit every taste. The Mart is also known for showcasing up-and-coming talent, making it a great place to discover new artists.

Grassington Folk Museum

What is it?
The Grassington Folk Museum is a local history museum located in the picturesque village of Grassington in the Yorkshire Dales. The museum is housed in an 18th-century building which was once a school and now features a collection of exhibits that showcase the everyday life of people in the Dales.

Why should you go?
Visiting the Grassington Folk Museum is a great way to gain an insight into the social history of the Dales. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics including agriculture, crafts, transport, and domestic life. You can learn about traditional crafts such as spinning and weaving, see displays of old farming tools and equipment, and discover how people in the Dales used to live.

One of the highlights of the museum is the recreated Victorian schoolroom, where you can step back in time and experience what school life was like in the 19th century. The museum also has a collection of photographs and artifacts that document the local lead mining industry, which played an important role in the area's economy in the 18th and 19th centuries.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, as well as a range of special events and activities. These include talks, workshops, and guided walks that explore the local area and its history.

Hesketh Farm Park

What is it?
Hesketh Farm Park is a family-friendly attraction located in Bolton Abbey, near Skipton in North Yorkshire. It is a working farm that offers a range of fun activities and experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why should you go?
Visiting Hesketh Farm Park is a great way to get up close and personal with a variety of farm animals, including cows, sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens. Visitors can also learn about the daily workings of a farm, such as milking cows and feeding animals.

In addition to the farm animals, there are also several play areas for children, including a large outdoor playground, a sandpit, and a bouncing pillow. There are also tractor rides, pony rides, and a small train that takes visitors around the farm.

Hesketh Farm Park is a great place to spend a day out with the family, especially for those with young children who will love the hands-on experiences and activities available. There is also a café on site serving a range of hot and cold food and drinks.