Bolton Castle: The Imposing Heart of Wensleydale
Bolton Castle is one of the UK’s best-preserved and most imposing medieval fortresses. Built between 1378 and 1399 by Sir Richard le Scrope, Lord Chancellor to Richard II, it was designed as a “quadrangular” castle—a massive rectangle with four high corner towers enclosing a central courtyard.
Mary, Queen of Scots, is undoubtedly the most famous resident of Bolton Castle. Her time there in 1568 represents a bittersweet chapter: it was the last place she was treated truly like a Queen before her imprisonment became much harsher and darker.
At the top of Skipton’s High Street stand the impressive towers of Skipton Castle.
Over 900 years old, Skipton Castle is one of the most complete and best-preserved medieval castles in England and is well worth a visit at any season of the year.
Visitors can explore every corner of this impressive history-rich castle, which withstood a three-year siege during the Civil War. View the Banqueting Hall, the Kitchen, the Bedchamber and Privy. Climb from the depths of the Dungeon to the top storey of the Watch Tower.
Imagine what life was like when Skipton Castle provided protection and security from invaders. Relax in the picnic area or in the new tearoom or visit the shop for more information.
Even now more historic finds are being discovered. Recently an ancient well was uncovered, helping to explain how the castle garrison survived the siege of 1643-5.
Middleham Castle: The Windsor of the North
While Bolton Castle was a prison for a Queen, Middleham Castle was the cherished home of a King. Known in its heyday as the “Windsor of the North,” this formidable fortress was the childhood home and favorite residence of Richard III, the last Plantagenet King of England.
Why It’s a Must-Visit for 2026
The Neville Powerhouse: Before it was a royal home, Middleham was the seat of the Nevilles, one of the most powerful families in English history. Richard Neville, known as “The Kingmaker,” raised the young Richard III here, teaching him the skills of knighthood and war within these very walls.
Richmond Castle: The Norman Sentinel of the Swale
Dominating the skyline of the “Town” of Richmond, Richmond Castle is one of the most important and best-preserved Norman fortresses in Great Britain. Founded in the 1070s by Alan Rufus, a kinsman of William the Conqueror, it was built to subdue the unruly North following the Norman Conquest. Its location is a masterclass in medieval strategy: perched high on a cliff overlooking the rushing River Swale.
Why It’s a Must-Visit for 2026
The Giant Keep: In the 12th century, the castle’s original gatehouse was dramatically built upwards to create a 100-foot-high keep. It remains one of the finest square towers in England. For your 2026 guide, emphasize the climb to the top—it offers the best “Town & Dale” vantage point, spanning the cobbled market square to the distant hills of the Yorkshire Dales.