Castles have always held a special place in our family’s heart. They’re not just old ruins — they’re gateways to adventure, packed with stories, history, and magic. Even our four-month-old baby has already visited three castles, and we’re just getting started!
When I say castles, I mean the real ones — the kind you picture when you hear the word: soaring towers, crumbling walls, medieval battlements — not just fancy manor houses. Yorkshire is full of these true castles, steeped in history and waiting to be explored.
In this blog, I’ll share our top 10 castles in Yorkshire for kids — places where little imaginations (and big ones!) can run wild. Whether you’re after a family day out, a little history, or just a proper castle adventure, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Skipton Castle
Skipton Castle in North Yorkshire is one of the best-preserved castles in the whole of England – it’s over 900 years old and still standing strong! It even survived a three-year siege during the English Civil War, which is pretty amazing. Kids will love exploring its towers, banqueting hall, and winding staircases, and there’s a special activity book you can grab from the ticket office to help bring the adventure to life. Don’t miss the beautiful courtyard in the middle of the castle, where a huge yew tree still grows – it was planted over 400 years ago by Lady Anne Clifford! A visit to Skipton Castle is like stepping back in time, with plenty of fun for the whole family.
2. Conisbrough Castle
Conisbrough Castle, in South Yorkshire, is a brilliant place for a family day out, with a three storey high stone keep you can climb for amazing views over the countryside. The castle’s curtain wall is now a romantic ruin, perfect for imagining knights and dragons. Kids will love the comic strip-style information boards dotted around the site, which tell the castle’s story in a fun and easy way. Over in the visitor centre, there are loads of hands-on games and activities – you can even build your own castle with blocks! There’s also a small museum that takes you through the exciting history of Conisbrough Castle, from Norman times to now.
3. Knaresborough Castle
Knaresborough Castle is a fun and family-friendly spot right in the heart of the beautiful town of Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, which is packed with things to see and do—like the magical Mother Shipton’s Cave nearby. The castle grounds are open all year and great for a picnic or a game of putting or bowling. Inside, kids can get creative in the activity room with crafty workshops, a play kitchen, and big foam bricks to build their own castle. Originally a Norman fortress, the castle was finished by Edward II—he even stayed here when Scarborough Castle was under siege! With its mix of history and hands-on fun, Knaresborough Castle is a brilliant place for kids to explore.
4. Pontefract Castle
Pontefract Castle in West Yorkshire is a great place for a free family day out, with loads of space to explore and a fun playground the kids will love. It’s really easy to get around too—even prams can handle the paths. There’s a lovely visitor centre with a small museum inside, perfect for a quick dip into the castle’s amazing history. Did you know King Richard II was imprisoned here, and Catherine Howard was at the castle when her infidelity to King Henry VIII was discovered? If your kids are big history fans, there are tours of the grounds and the spooky dungeon—but be warned, there’s lots of talking, so younger ones might get a bit wriggly! With fresh air, fascinating stories, and plenty for kids to enjoy, Pontefract Castle is well worth a visit.
5. Scarborough Castle
Scarborough Castle in North Yorkshire is a fantastic place for kids to explore, with stunning views over the sea and loads of history to uncover. People have lived on this spot for over 3,000 years—you can even see remains of a Roman fort! The castle was once a favourite of the infamous King John, who visited often and spent a fortune fixing it up. It was later bombarded and partly destroyed during the English Civil War, but there’s still plenty to see. There’s a small museum, and if you visit in summer, don’t miss the exciting Knights’ Tournament—it’s one of mine and my sister’s favourite things to do! With space to run, epic views, and fun events, Scarborough Castle is perfect for a family day out.
6. Richmond Castle
Richmond Castle in North Yorkshire is a brilliant place for a family visit, set in a lovely town with stunning views of the countryside. It’s actually the best-preserved Norman castle in all of England, so there’s loads to explore! Kids can get creative in the exhibition centre, where they can design their own heraldry and learn about life in medieval times. The castle also has a powerful story to tell—during the First World War, 16 men who refused to fight were imprisoned here, and you can still see the graffiti they left behind on the walls. With its mix of fun activities and fascinating history, Richmond Castle makes for a great day out with the kids.
7. Helmsley Castle
Helmsley Castle in North Yorkshire is a great place for a family adventure, right near the lovely market town of Helmsley and just a short walk from the stunning Rievaulx Abbey. Most of the castle you see today was built in the 1100s, and it was even besieged during the English Civil War! Some say it’s haunted, which adds a spooky twist to your visit—perfect for kids who love a good ghost story. From the castle walk, you can enjoy beautiful views over the Helmsley Walled Gardens, and if you’re up for more exploring, Pickering Castle is only 12 miles away. With history, legends, and lovely surroundings, Helmsley Castle is a fun and memorable stop for families.
8. Pickering Castle
Pickering Castle in North Yorkshire is a brilliant place for kids to explore, right in the charming town of Pickering—which is well worth a visit on its own! The castle’s tall curtain walls still stand nearly at their full height, and you can climb up to the motte for amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—kestrels sometimes nest here, and there are all sorts of birds and creatures to spot. There’s even a spooky rumour about the ghost of a monk who haunts the castle! With nature, history, and a dash of mystery, Pickering Castle is a fun and exciting stop for families.
9. Bolton Castle
Bolton Castle in North Yorkshire is a full-on medieval adventure for kids and families! Built in the 1300s, this impressive fortress offers way more than just a look around. There are exciting bird of prey displays, archery demonstrations, and even wild boar feeding to watch. Children can dress up in costumes, play medieval games, and really feel like they’ve stepped back in time. You can also grab an activity pack to help make the visit even more fun and hands-on. With so much to see and do, Bolton Castle is more than just a visit—it’s a whole experience the kids won’t forget!
10. Middleham Castle
Middleham Castle is a hidden gem in North Yorkshire, home to one of the largest Norman keeps in England! Kids will especially love the quirky multi-storey toilet tower—it always gets a giggle. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the castle has some fascinating royal connections. King Richard III spent much of his childhood here, and King Edward IV, was even captured and briefly held at Middleham Castle. With its huge stone walls, winding staircases, and fun features to discover, it’s a great place for children to explore and imagine life in medieval times.
Whether your kids love tales of knights and dragons, spooky ghost stories, or just running around ancient ruins, Yorkshire’s castles offer something for every young explorer. From hands-on activities and thrilling tournaments to beautiful views and centuries of history, each castle brings its own special magic to a family day out. With so many to choose from, why not turn your visit into a castle-hopping adventure? You’ll make unforgettable memories—and maybe even inspire a few future historians along the way!