History
One of the best-preserved medieval castles in all of England, Skipton Castle has withstood over 900 years of history. Originally built as a motte and bailey castle in 1090, it was fortified with stone in 1102 to endure attacks from the Scots. During the English Civil War, the castle served as the last Royalist stronghold in the north, eventually surrendering in 1645 after a three-year siege. Today, visitors can explore its dungeon and see the yew tree planted by Lady Anne Clifford in 1659, commemorating the castle's repairs post-siege.
For a comprehensive look at Skipton's rich history, visit the Craven Museum and Gallery in Skipton Town Hall. The museum offers fascinating exhibitions on the area's heritage, including archaeological artifacts and period clothing.
Canals
Skipton is located along the longest canal in the country – the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. Spanning 127 miles, the canal was completed in 1816 to transport goods like stone, coal, and cloth. Now, it's a scenic spot for exploration, with several companies in Skipton offering canal cruises and trips. Pennine Boat Trips and Airedale Cruising are notable companies, providing boating lessons, day cruises, and options perfect for family outings or romantic escapes.
Shopping
Skipton is an excellent destination for retail therapy. Skipton Market, with origins in the medieval period, is a great place to find everything from fresh local produce to flowers and clothing. On Skipton High Street, you'll encounter big-name brands alongside cobblestone streets and alleys. Additionally, Skipton features boutique independent shops around Victoria Square and traditional stores and eateries in the Historical Quarter.
Yorkshire Dales and Bolton Abbey
Skipton is ideally located for visiting the Yorkshire Dales. A short trip east leads to the ruins of the 12th-century Augustinian monastery, Bolton Abbey. With 30,000 acres of countryside and 80 miles of footpaths, there's ample land around the abbey to explore. Further into the Dales, you'll find a stunning natural area with walking routes for all abilities. For more adventurous hikes, explore the Three Peaks – Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. Near Ingleborough, you'll find Ingleborough Cave, a show cave with a 500-meter-long fossil gallery and impressive stalagmite formations.
