Trifter

THERE are many castles scattered across the whole of England.  One of the best preserved and most complete of all the Medieval castles is Skipton in North Yorkshire.  It is almost complete in spite of undergoing the rigours of a three year siege during the English Civil War.

The small market town of Skipton has nestled under the safety of its walls for centuries and many Lords of Skipton are buried in the parish churchyard.  George Clifford, 3rd Earl of Cumberland, who was Champion to Elizabeth I and one of her admirals in the battles against the Spanish Armada is possible the most famous.  John Clifford, 9th Lord of Skipton, whose Wyvern arms are carved above the doorway, must be the most bloodthirsty.

The crushing defeat of Prince Rupert at Marston Moor in July left Skipton Castle as the only Royalist stronghold in the north.  It was already under siege and held out until December 21, 1645.  Sir John Mallory, the governor negotiated a honourable surrender and the garrison marched out with full military honours.

Oliver Cromwell ordered the removal of the castle roofs to prevent its military use.  However Lady Anne Clifford was allowed to replace them a decade later, providing that they were not strong enough to bear the weight of artillery.

Visitors are able to take a time sheet, which are printed in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese and Esperanto, and step back in time to explore the exciting history of Cravendale.

There is the 13th Century Chapel of St John the Evangelist.  They can see the yew tree that was planted by Lady Anne Clifford in 1659 in the charming Tudor Conduit Court, which has an entrance leading down to the dungeon.

Refreshments can be obtained in the Clifford Tea Room, which is licensed and there is the peaceful Chapel Terrace Picnic Area.  The Castle Shop is renowned for its book section.

Skipton Castle welcomes party visits and can provide guides for pre-booked groups of 15 or more.

The castle has no wheelchair access due to its great antiquity.

Opening times are from 10am on Mondays to Saturdays and noon on Sundays, throughout the year with the exception of Christmas Day.  Last admissions are at 6pm between March and September and 4pm from October to February.

All enquiries and bookings should be made to 01756 792422.