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Skipton is a charming market town located in the Craven district of North Yorkshire, England. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and scenic countryside. If you’re planning a visit to Skipton, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 places to visit in Skipton based on online recommendations and reviews.

1. Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle is an impressive medieval fortress located in the charming market town of Skipton, North Yorkshire, England. The castle was originally built in 1090 by Robert de Romille, lord of the multiple estates of Bolton Abbey, as a motte and bailey castle. Over the centuries, the castle was rebuilt in stone to withstand attacks by the Scots and underwent several modifications and repairs, resulting in a magnificent forfeited castle built in Romanesque architecture. Today, Skipton Castle is considered to be one of the most complete and best-preserved medieval castles in England.

Visitors to Skipton Castle can explore every corner of this impressive history-rich castle, including the Tudor courtyard, the gatehouse towers, and the castle grounds. The castle also features an impressive collection of furniture, artwork, and weaponry that are a testament to its rich history. Skipton Castle is particularly notable for withstanding a three-year siege during the Civil War.

Skipton Castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, and medieval life. It is also a popular destination for families and individuals looking for a unique experience in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful setting, Skipton Castle is a true gem of the North Yorkshire landscape.

2. Hesketh Farm Park

Hesketh Farm Park is a popular family-friendly attraction located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales near the picturesque village of Bolton Abbey and 5 miles from Skipton. This working farm has over 1,000 cattle, sheep, and pigs that visitors can feed and interact with. The park spans around 10 acres of greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding Yorkshire hills.

One of the unique features of Hesketh Farm Park is the large heated undercover barn, which is a cosy place to retreat to in case of bad weather. Visitors can feed and stroke the animals without getting wet or cold. Additionally, there is an outdoor space that visitors can make full use of in warmer weather.

According to reviews, the park is popular with families and children, who enjoy interacting with the animals and playing in the park. However, some reviewers noted that the park may have a minimalist experience for young adults.

Overall, Hesketh Farm Park is a great place for families to spend a fun-filled day out in the countryside. The park offers a unique opportunity to interact with farm animals and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

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3. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is a historic site located in Wharfedale, North Yorkshire, England. It takes its name from the ruins of the 12th-century Augustinian monastery, which is now known as Bolton Priory. Despite the priory’s closure in the 16th century during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it still remains a popular tourist attraction, with visitors of all ages finding something of interest at the site.

The estate is a combination of a historic village, a riverside walk, and sites of scientific interest. The priory is the main attraction, and visitors can explore the ruins, learn about its history, and take in its beautiful surroundings. The estate features plenty of all-weather walks, including some accessible routes, albeit with steep inclines in areas.

Aside from the priory, the Bolton Abbey Estate also features a number of small houses, a post office, a book store, and a hotel. Visitors can purchase a season ticket to access the site throughout the year and enjoy discounts in the Cavendish Pavilion and estate gift shops, among other perks.

In summary, Bolton Abbey is a picturesque and historically significant site that offers visitors a range of attractions and activities. Whether exploring the ruins of the priory or taking in the estate’s natural beauty, there is something for everyone at this iconic Yorkshire landmark.

4. Simon’s Seat

Simon’s Seat is a popular hill in the Yorkshire Dales, situated close to Bolton Abbey. Although it falls short of being classified as a mountain, it still stands at a respectable height of 485 meters (1,591 feet) above sea level. It is a prominent outcrop of millstone grit, visible from many miles around, with a summit that boasts a trig point surrounded by large gritstone boulders.

Simon’s Seat’s popularity is due in part to its proximity to Bolton Abbey, making it a popular destination for tourists visiting the area. The Valley of Desolation is a popular approach to the hill and boasts some spectacular views across Wharfedale.

The hill’s stunning scenery is another reason why it’s a popular destination for walkers. The path network makes for quick walking, and the granite boulders that spring from the surrounding heather moor add to the beauty of the landscape. Despite not being classified as a mountain, the climb up Simon’s Seat still provides a challenging and rewarding walk for all abilities, offering spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.

5. Thornton Hall Farm Country Park

Thornton Hall Farm Country Park is an award-winning leisure attraction in Skipton that provides an amazing day out for families. The park offers animal encounters, live shows and experiences, play areas, camping, quad-biking, and thrilling family events. Visitors can meet and make friends with friendly farm animals, greet the newest arrivals, and take part in seasonal hands-on activities, demonstrations, and animal encounters. The park is open all year round, come rain or shine.

One of the unique features of the park is the Secret Garden (18+) where visitors can dance, drink, and eat under a giant ti-pi marquee while enjoying live entertainment, cocktails, and delicious food. Thornton Hall Farm Country Park is also a great venue for weddings and special events.

The farm is spotlessly clean, and visitors can experience hands-on animal encounters on the traditional working farm. The park offers lots of indoor and outdoor fun for the little ones, making it an ideal family day out.

Overall, Thornton Hall Farm Country Park is a must-visit attraction in Skipton for families who want to experience a unique and enjoyable day out filled with animal encounters, play areas, live shows, and events.

6. Parcevall Hall Gardens

Parcevall Hall Gardens is a stunning garden located in the heart of Wharfedale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This hidden gem is considered to be a fine example of the Arts & Crafts movement and is renowned among plantsmen’s gardens. The gardens are located at the head of a small valley, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. The site has medieval origins, was extended in the 17th century, and has undergone 20th-century alterations. Parcevall Hall Gardens is the largest and the only RHS and English Heritage registered garden that is open to the public in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Visitors can expect to be taken on a journey of early 20th-century design in the gardens, which include a formal terrace garden, woodland garden, and rock garden. Many people have commended the gardens’ beauty, including a lovely woodland walk alongside water flowing over rocks and into pools and the formal gardens at the top.

Overall, Parcevall Hall Gardens offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience for visitors who appreciate the beauty and tranquility of nature. The gardens’ rich history, unique features, and stunning scenery make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Skipton.

7. Skipton Market

Skipton Market is a bustling and historic market located in the market town of Skipton in North Yorkshire, England. The market is held every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in the town’s high street, attracting locals and visitors alike. The market dates back to the 12th century and has been a fixture of Skipton’s community ever since. The market offers a variety of goods for sale, including fresh produce, flowers, clothing, and artisanal crafts.

Visitors to Skipton Market can enjoy the lively atmosphere and find unique items for purchase. The market is a great place to buy local produce and support small businesses. Additionally, the market is located in the heart of the town, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Skipton’s many other attractions, including Skipton Castle and Skipton Woods.

Skipton Market is also an important part of the town’s history, having played a significant role in the local economy for centuries. Today, the market remains a vibrant and essential part of the community, providing locals and visitors with a unique shopping experience and a glimpse into Skipton’s rich history.

Overall, Skipton Market is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the town. With its rich history, unique products, and lively atmosphere, it offers a glimpse into the heart of Skipton’s community and culture.

8. Sharp Haw

Sharp Haw is a prominent hill on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, located just within the National Park. The hill, with an elevation of 357 meters (1,171 ft), is easily recognizable from much of the area to the south. It is the highest point near Skipton and has a distinctive summit.

There are several walking routes to Sharp Haw from Skipton, and it is a popular destination for hikers. The Sharp Haw Walk is a half-day gentle walk that can be accessed easily from Skipton, and the route includes a gradual ascent of Flasby Fell before returning across its southern slopes. While the route may include some rough ground, it is generally considered a straightforward walk without any difficulties.

It is advised to wear appropriate footwear when hiking Sharp Haw as some parts of the trail can be very boggy, especially during wetter conditions. Moreover, the route passes through active farmlands, and there may be sheep and cattle along the trail.

In summary, Sharp Haw is a well-known hill located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, and it is a popular destination for hiking due to its stunning views and accessible walking routes.

9. Leeds and Liverpool Canal

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal is a popular tourist attraction in Northern England that stretches over a distance of 127 miles from Leeds to Liverpool. Skipton is located along the canal, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride on the towpath, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

The canal was completed in 1816 and played a significant role in the transportation of goods in the Industrial Revolution.

Today, it is a popular destination for holidaymakers, with many charming towns and villages along its route. The canal has 91 locks on its mainline, and it also has several small branches that are worth exploring. The Canal and River Trust, which manages the canal, periodically carries out maintenance and repairs to ensure that it remains safe for visitors and boats. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just looking for a peaceful way to spend your day, a visit to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal near Skipton is definitely worth it.

10. Craven Museum & Gallery

Craven Museum & Gallery is located in Skipton, North Yorkshire and is a great place for locals and tourists to connect with the history and culture of the region. The museum collects items related to life in the Craven region from prehistory to the present day, making it a great place to learn about the area’s past. Visitors can see a range of artifacts, including a copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio, a Roman Amethyst Intaglio, and the Iron-Age Flasby Sword.

In addition to the museum’s permanent collection, there is a gallery that features a changing program of exhibitions from local and national artists and craftspeople. The museum is suitable for all ages and is family-friendly, with exhibits that are both informative and engaging.

If you have any objects or photographs related to life in the Craven region that you wish to donate to the museum, you can contact them at museum@cravendc.gov.uk to request an enquiry form. The museum also has a Friends of Craven Museum group that helps to support the museum and its collection.

Overall, Craven Museum & Gallery is a great destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Craven region. It’s easily accessible and offers a range of exhibits that are both informative and engaging for all ages.