Castles
Yorkshire has its fair share of castles – some beautifully preserved and still in use today whilst others are unroofed but still worth visiting for their location and historical interest.
Ripley Castle between Harrogate and Ripon
A fully roofed castle and home of the Ingilby family for the last seven hundred years. Their history is one of political, military, religious and social turbulence and a tale of romance, courage, loyalty (or otherwise) and recklessness. King James I stayed here as a guest yet two years later his hosts, the Ingiliby family, were part of the plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Open throughout most of the year entertaining guides bring history to life with their anecdotes and amusing stories.
There are gardens, a lakeside path and deerpark to explore and afterwards enjoy a well earned cup of tea in the village where a little retail therapy can also be enjoyed. Approx 10 -15 minutes' drive
Middleham Castle
Owned by English Heritage this was the childhood and favourite home of Richard III. It was built as a massive fortress and around the 12th century original keep three ranges of luxurious chambers and lodges were built turning it into a fortified palace by the 15th century. Many of these buildings survive which, although roofless, make it a fascinating place to explore. About 45 minutes' drive.
Skipton Castle
One of the best examples of a fully roofed medieval castle that held out under siege for three years fighting for the King's cause in the Civil War. Guided tours are available in several languages and the rooms accurately depict living conditions from medieval times. See working kitchens, sleeping and living quarters, the primitive privy, dungeons and battlements.
At the head of the town centre, after a cup of tea and homemade cake in the Castle tearooms take a wander down the high street and explore the myriad alleyways leading to the canal.
Open every day except Christmas Day – approximately 45 minutes' drive.
