Historic Houses and Cool Castles to Explore in Yorkshire
History buffs will love these days out in Yorkshire
Burton Constable Hall
Set within beautiful Capability Brown-designed parkland, Burton Constable Hall is one of East Yorkshire’s finest historic houses. Inside, visitors can explore more than 30 richly furnished rooms, each revealing centuries of history, art and craftsmanship. Highlights include the elegant Chinese Room, exceptional Chippendale furniture and the fascinating Cabinet of Curiosities created by William Constable, one of the finest surviving collections of its kind in an English country house. With grand interiors, treasured collections and stories at every turn, Burton Constable Hall offers an fascinating glimpse into Yorkshire’s heritage.
Skirlaugh, near Hull HU11 4LN
01964 562400
burtonconstable.com
Bolton Castle
Bolton Castle was built by Sir Richard le Scrope, Lord Chancellor of England to Richard II. Previously a family home as well as a defensive fortress, there are many fascinating features to discover inside the castle including the Old Kitchens, dungeon, armoury, and Mary Queen of Scots’ bedroom. But there’s plenty more to experience here too, from stunning medieval gardens to the chance to learn the basics of falconry and meet wild boar.
Near Leyburn DL8 4ET
01969 623981
boltoncastle.co.uk
Cusworth Hall, Museum and Park
This stunning Grade I-listed building was built between 1740 and 1744 for local land owner William Wrightson and the hall has been transformed into Heritage Doncaster’s social history museum, home to collections which reflect the daily lives of people in Doncaster from the 18th century to today. Explore the hall’s Great Kitchen and see the stunning paintings on the ceiling of the chapel. Set in acres of historic parkland, there’s plenty to see outside too, and the historic parkland is the perfect place for family picnics and walks.
Cusworth Lane, Doncaster DN5 7TU
01302 734550
visitdoncaster.com
Richmond Castle
Climb the keep for panoramic views over the castle and the ancient town, then check out the towers, halls and chapels before discovering Richmond Castle’s dramatic history in its displays, from the 11th-century Norman conquest to its occupation by the northern Non-Combatant Corps during the First World War. You can even design your own heraldry on a trip here and discover decades-old historic graffiti in the 19th-century military cell block.
Tower Street, Richmond DL10 4QW
01748 822493
english-heritage.org.uk
Auckland Palace
Bishop Auckland is alive with history, nature, art and good food. Come and walk in the footsteps of the original ‘Kings of the North’ – the Prince Bishops of Durham. One of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in Europe, visitors can discover almost 1,000 years of history here. A remarkable symbol of faith and power, marvel at the Georgian Gothic splendour of the Throne Room, visit the former apartments of the Bishops of Durham and explore the Long Dining Room which is home to Jacob and His Twelve Sons painted by Francisco de Zurbarán, which inspired the nearby Spanish Gallery. While the Palace’s Deer Park is perfect for a stroll, don’t miss your chance to visit the award-winning Walled Garden, Paradise Garden and Wilderness Garden.
Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR
aucklandproject.org
Raby Castle
Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family, Raby Castle has a long history as the scene of the plotting of the Rising of the North and was a Parliamentary stronghold during the Civil War. As well as discovering more about its fascinating history inside, visitors can explore the 200-acre deer park where red and fallow deer roam, the Walled Gardens (newly remodelled by renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei with Lady Barnard) and, until 31st August, a fabulous new floral display and accompanying garden-inspired events. Various events take place here throughout the year, including outdoor cinema, cookery masterclasses and wellness workshops.
Staindrop DL2 3AH
01833 660888
raby.co.uk
Lotherton
This Edwardian country hall and estate boasts an expansive collection of artefacts, furniture and artworks with changing displays and exhibitions showcasing ceramics, paintings, furniture and costume. Don’t miss Botanically Beautiful: Art and Design inspired by Nature (on display until 18th October). Outside, explore the garden rooms designed by Mrs Gwendolen Gascoigne, follow the woodland path to the orchard and take in the wildflower meadow. Then, see animals from across the globe including penguins, flamingos, wallabies and capybaras at Wildlife World, Lotherton’s conservation zoo. This summer, families will love A Lotherton Summer Holiday – six weeks of school holiday fun including children’s entertainment, rides, crafts and trails.
Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
0113 376 0318
museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/lotherton
Skipton Castle
At more than 900 years old, Skipton Castle is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England, having withstood a three-year siege during the Civil War. There’s always something new to see, because even today more historic finds are being discovered. Climb from the dungeon to the top of the watch tower, explore the chapel then walk the grounds of the stunning Conduit Court to visit a 350-year-old yew tree planted by Lady Anne Clifford.
Skipton BD23 1AW
01756 792442
skiptoncastle.co.uk
Scarborough Castle
No trip to Scarborough is complete without a stroll around Scarborough Castle to experience 3,000 years of history – and some pretty impressive views over the town, the harbour and the bay, which are best enjoyed from the viewing platforms here. Visitors will also find the remains of a Roman signal station and an Anglo-Saxon church as well as a huge wildflower meadow. From 18th July to 6th September, there’ll be fairground activities, circus skills and puppets to keep the kids entertained.
Castle Road, Scarborough YO11 1HY
01723 372451
english-heritage.org.uk
