Skipton: Canals, a Castle and Cafes

In Brief.

Skipton is a market town to the South of the Yorkshire Dales, which has hosted a castle since one was built by the Normans in 1090, and has had a place on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal since 1774. More recently, the presence of these visitable sights and its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales means that it has become a significant tourist destination. Indeed, on my weekday visit in the summer, the town centre was bustling, and both canal trips and cafes were doing good business.

Skipton Castle Watchtower

What's Here?

Though there has been a castle in Skipton for over 900 years, the current stone Skipton Castle dates more from the 12th century. The castle is in excellent condition, and a self-guided tour follows a path through the towers, halls and courtyard, while providing some insights into key people and events, such as the 3 year siege during the English Civil War.  If the weather encourages more time outdoors, there are also various circular walks next to the castle through Skipton Castle Woods; during my visit the ground was carpeted with wild garlic, which was in bloom.

The castle towers over part of Skipton Castle Woods.

Reflecting a different period in the town's history, the area around the canals hosts lots of eateries and gentle walks along tow paths. There are also regular boat trips on the Leeds and Liverpool canal; I took a 1 hour trip which was popular enough to be worth booking in advance, and included a quirky commentary.


One of the canals near the town centre.

Back in the centre of town, the Town Hall hosts the compact but interesting Craven Museum, that covers the history of the region from the geology through to agriculture and industry. There is also an art space with changing exhibitions.

Not so far away, and also in this blog series, are Clitheroe and Keighley.

Practicalities.

Distance from Manchester Town Hall: 46 miles

Drive Time: 1hour 10 minutes

Price: Castle: $$; Boat trip: $; Museum: free

Parking: I parked in the Bailey Carpark, near the castle.

Food and Drink: There are many cafes, both in the town centre and nearer the canals, though everything is walkable.

Retail therapy: There is a bustling shopping area around the High Street.

Child Friendly: Though the castle was full of school children on my visit, it isn't especially child focused.

Toilets: Yes - in the castle and museum, and behind the town hall.

Do it justice in: 1 hour each for castle and museum; the canal boat trip is an hour.

Inside-Outside: 70:30

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