An English Heritage property set in the picturesque town of Helmsley, North Yorkshire, Helmsley Castle is a beautiful spot for exploring and picnicking. It’s been used for the same purpose since Victorian times when it was a popular tourist destination! While there might not be as many kids activities in this castle compared to other places, that might not be a bad thing because they can let their imaginations go wild.
Tickets and Opening Times:
During the Summer months, Helmsley Castle is open every day from 10am till 5pm. In the Winter months, it is open weekends and school holidays. It is free to English Heritage members. For more information on opening times and ticket prices, click here.
Parking/ travelling:
The nearest car park is Cleveland Way car park which is only a short distance from the castle. There are disabled bays and electric charging points available. There is more parking in Helmsley Market Place.
Bus route 128 runs to Helmsley from Pickering and Scarborough. The Reliance 31x runs from York to Kirbymoorside via Helmsley. In the Summer, the Moors Bus runs through Helmsley too.
Prams and Accessibility:
Most of the explorable area at Helmsley Castle is accessed via ramps or is level grass and paths. There are two parts of the castle accessed only by stairs. There are baby changing facilities in the accessible toilet.
Things to do at Helmsley Castle
1. Explore the Tudor Mansion
Updated in Tudor times to become a fabulous living space, this castle-cum-manor house is now used as a museum. There is lots of information on the Civil War when Helmsley Castle was sieged. You can also see plenty of artefacts dating from this period, as well as items like a silver knife and fork set probably from when the Victorians picnicked here!
2. See the crumbling ruins
A place that inspires play, your little explorers can imagine being the kings and queens that visited this castle through its long history. There is a crumbling keep that was mostly destroyed during the civil war and a ruined barbican. See if your little ones can spot the owl.
3. Enjoy the grounds
Between the beautiful ruins are well maintained lawns, perfect for picnicking on and running around. There are several benches, sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and walled gardens, as well as a treasure trail for children to follow.
Things to do nearby with kids
A wonderful open air museum, Ryedale Folk Museum is nestled in the quaint village of Hutton-le-Hole in North Yorkshire. There are more than 20 buildings that show how life was lived from the Iron Age to the 20th century and tons of activities to keep the little ones interested. A good few hours could be enjoyed at this museum.
2. Pickering
A wonderfully typical North Yorkshire town, Pickering boasts a castle, a surprisingly large museum (Beck Isle) and lots of excellent places to eat. It is also the most Southerly stop of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway – an excellent way to experience a steam train.
3. Helmsley Town
This vibrant town has lots to do with kids as well as the Castle, such as the Helmsley Archeology Store, Helmsley Walled Gardens and Rievaulx Abbey only a short distance away.
4. Scampston Hall and Walled Gardens
There is lots to explore here, from the beautifully designed walled garden to the extensive parkland, hundreds of years old trees, river and lots of little historical buildings, and that’s all before you even enter the house! You could spend a morning or afternoon well here.
4. Journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Catch a steam or diesel train from the market town of Pickering to the bustling coast of Whitby, or stop at any of the quaint villages on the route including Goathland (site of Hogsmede) and Grosmont. There are so many ways to enjoy a day out hopping on and off these wonderful heritage trains.
