Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle is located in the town of Skipton in North Yorkshire, England. It was built in 1090 by Norman baron Robert de Romille and has a history of over 900 years.

Skipton Castle was initially a wooden motte-and-bailey castle but was later reconstructed in stone to better defend against Scottish incursions from the north. In 1310, Edward II granted the castle to Robert and appointed him Lord of Skipton and Guardian of Craven. Robert Clifford ordered further fortifications, but when he died at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, most of the enhancements remained unfinished. The castle remained the only royalist stronghold in northern England during the English Civil War until December 1645. After a three-year siege, the royalists surrendered to Cromwell in 1645, who then ordered the removal of the castle’s roof. The Cliffords retained ownership until 1676, with Lady Anne Clifford (1590–1676) being the last owner of the castle.

Today, Skipton Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. In stark contrast to other sites that may only offer ruins or fragmented walls, this castle is absolutely worth a visit.

Skipton Castle

Why go: One of England's best-preserved medieval castles

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Britain[Britain]

Province/State: North Yorkshire [North Yorkshire]