There are so many things to do in Skipton and we are going to take a look at them below. Skipton is a charming market town located in the Yorkshire Dales of England, well known for its historic castle and lively market square.
Skipton is also an excellent base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the surrounding area.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Skipton:
Skipton Castle
Skipton Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located in the town of Skipton, North Yorkshire, England. The castle was built in 1090 by Norman lord Robert de Romille and has been occupied by the Clifford family since 1310. Skipton Castle is constructed from local limestone and sandstone and is surrounded by a moat.
The main keep is four stories high and includes a great hall, chapel, and living quarters. The castle also has several towers, including a gatehouse and watchtower. Skipton Castle is open to the public and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as jousting tournaments and archery competitions. Who does not like a castle when they are visiting a new place? Well, that is exactly why we have added it to our list of things to do in Skipton.
The Devonshire Arms
The Devonshire Arms is a charming hotel located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The hotel dated back to the 18th century and was built as a coaching inn. Today, the hotel has been beautifully restored and offers a variety of modern amenities, including an on-site restaurant and bar.
The Devonshire Arms is the perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, with a variety of hiking and cycling trails starting right from the hotel doorstep. The friendly staff are always on hand to provide tips and advice on the best places to visit, and the hotel’s central location means that you’re never far from any of the region’s attractions. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly holiday, the Devonshire Arms will exceed your expectations.
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is a beautiful ruined priory in the Yorkshire Dales. Founded in the 12th century by Augustinian monks, it was once one of England’s largest and most powerful monasteries. However, the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century led to its ruin. Today, Bolton Abbey is owned by the Duke of Devonshire and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ruins of the cloisters, chapel, dormitory, and the magnificent 15th-century tower. The Abbey is also home to a herd of red deer, which can often be seen grazing on the grounds. With its stunning setting and rich history, Bolton Abbey is a popular tourist destination that should be on your list of things to do in Skipton if you can squeeze it with all of the other great things to do in Skipton.
Craven Museum and Gallery
The Craven Museum and Gallery is a must-see for any history lover visiting the area. The museum chronicles the history of the Craven district from the Roman occupation to the present day, with exhibits on everything from local archaeology to the textile industry. The gallery features a rotating selection of artworks, both by local artists and more well-known names. And the museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, ranging from talks by experts to hands-on workshops for children.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply want to find out more about the area you’re visiting, a trip to the Craven Museum and Gallery is sure to be one of the enjoyable and enlightening things to do in Skipton.
Grassington Folk Museum
The Grassington Folk Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Yorkshire Dales. The museum is housed in a former Methodist chapel, and its exhibits tell the story of life in the Dales from the perspective of ordinary people. Visitors can learn about the daily struggles and triumphs of farmers and shepherds, cobblers, and weavers, through a collection of objects, documents, and photographs.
The museum also hosts regular events, including traditional music concerts, exhibitions of local crafts, and talks by historians and folklorists. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of the Dales or a first-time visitor, the Grassington Folk Museum is sure to provide an insightful and enjoyable day out, and that is why we have added it to our list of things to do in Skipton.
The Dales Way Walk
Walking is always a good thing to do when you go away, and the Dales Way Walk is definitely worthy of being on our list of things to do in Skipton.
The Dales Way Walk is a popular hiking trail in the United Kingdom. The trail runs for 79 miles (127 kilometres) from Ilkley, West Yorkshire, to Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Park. The Dales Way Walk is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced hikers alike. There are plenty of places to stop for a rest or a bite to eat. There are several campsites along the route for those who want to make a multi-day hike out of it. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a challenging multi-day trek, the Dales Way Walk is sure to please.
Malham Cove and Gordale Scar
Malham Cove and Gordale Scar are two of Yorkshire’s most popular tourist attractions. Malham Cove is a natural limestone amphitheatre formed by a huge landslide thousands of years ago.
The Gordale Scar is a spectacular waterfall and gorge formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. Both sites are managed by the National Trust and are well worth visiting. Malham Cove is particularly popular with climbers as it offers some of the best limestone climbing in the country.
The Gordale Scar is also a popular spot for walking and picnicking. If you’re looking for a taste of Yorkshire’s wild side, then Malham Cove and Gordale Scar are one of the beautiful things to do in Skipton and are undoubtedly worth a visit.
Embsay Steam Railway
The Embsay Steam Railway is a heritage railway that runs for four miles between Embsay and Bolton Abbey Station in North Yorkshire, England. The railway is run by volunteers and operated by steam locomotives. It is one of the oldest working steam railways in the country, and it offers visitors a chance to experience a slice of history.
The Embsay railway first opened in 1847, and it has been running continuously ever since. It is now a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming from worldwide to ride on the train. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and along the way, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside. The Embsay Steam Railway is a unique experience that is not to be missed.
There are many things to do in Skipton, and we have just scratched the surface with our list of ten attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a railway enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this charming Yorkshire town.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
Thank you for reading. We hope you have enjoyed this post, and if you have, please follow us on Facebook and have a look at some of our other “Things To Do In Series…“. We have written about things to do in Llandudno, Bath, Tenby, Manchester, etc.
