TL;DR
Looking for one of the best family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire this summer? Bolton Castle combines more than 600 years of spellbinding history with exhilarating activities that’ll capture kids’ imaginations. With stunning gardens, birds of prey, beautiful views and plenty of space for children to explore, it has all the ingredients for a fantastic family adventure in Yorkshire. Whether you're planning a day trip to the Yorkshire Dales or searching for things to do with kids near Leyburn, here are the top 10 reasons why Bolton Castle should be top of your list.
10 brilliant reasons to visit Bolton Castle this Summer
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1. THE FASCINATING HISTORY
Bolton Castle is a historical treasure trove where kids can literally see and feel what life would have been like more than 600 years ago. Completed in 1399, it’s amongst England’s best-preserved medieval castles and one of the most popular family attractions in the Yorkshire Dales.
Children will have their attention grabbed by stories of battles, sieges, treason, rebellions, pillaging and executions, all helped by staff who have boundless enthusiasm and impressive knowledge.
Despite the dark and grisly secrets it holds and the violence it’s endured, three quarters of the castle walls and one third of the rooms are still fully intact. The imposing portcullis and grimy dungeon are often favourite stops with kids, along with the private apartment where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned awaiting her unhappy fate.
Insider tip: there’s no need to worry about the weather with a family day out at Bolton Castle. If we happen to have another scorching heat wave, take shelter inside where the thick stone walls will keep you cool. And, for rainy days in the Yorkshire Dales, there are five floors to explore, so you won’t even notice drizzle.
2. THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Kids need a good run around to burn off energy – we’ve all learnt that through experience! And Bolton Castle is the ideal place to tire out those little legs. There’s outside space aplenty, including four separate gardens, a bowling green and a vineyard.
And the opportunities for outdoor entertainment are endless. Think hunting bugs, spotting birds, discovering hidden trails, exploring secret gardens and playing games. After all that, why not settle down in one of the gardens for a picnic to refuel before the next exciting stop on your Bolton Castle family adventure?
3. THE CHARMING TEA ROOM
We all know that a good tea room forms one of the most essential parts of any day out. And at Bolton Castle you will not be disappointed. There’s a selection of delicious homemade cakes, great coffee, local produce and ice creams. There are also lots of tasty lunch options, including Annie’s famous pasties.
Insider tip: if you want to make your family day out that little bit more special, opt for the afternoon tea and your taste buds are in for a treat.
4. THE BREATHTAKING BIRDS
There’s nothing quite like watching birds of prey with their vast wingspans as they soar overhead, gliding effortlessly and swooping silently, to really wow children and grown-ups too.
Witness hawks, owls and falcons in all their glory and marvel at the falconers who have trained these incredible predators to perform, all against the dramatic backdrop of the castle. This is a truly memorable birds of prey experience.
5. THE STUNNING VIEWS
Prepare to be mesmerised by spectacular views of the Yorkshire Dales. Scale to the top of the 30-metre watch tower and peek through the battlements at the green rolling hills and patchwork of fields beneath. Challenge your children to spot the pretty villages, meandering river and landmarks beyond.
As well as being the sort of glorious setting that clears the mind and lifts the spirits, this is the perfect backdrop for photos. We can’t guarantee everyone will be looking in the right direction or that they’ll have their eyes open, but the panoramic views definitely make impromptu photo shoots easier! Remember to upload your pictures to Instagram and tag @BoltonCastle.
6. THE IMAGINATIVE ACTIVITIES
If you’re searching for things to do with kids in Wensleydale to keep you all entertained, and to preserve everyone’s sanity, Bolton Castle offers much more than views and history. There are fun activities every day that promise to ignite the children’s passion for history and zeal for creativity.
With a packed summer events schedule, there are historical reenactments, medieval games, creative calligraphy, inspiring storytelling and open-air theatre performances to suit every age. The children can also get hands-on by joining in with archery or donning costumes for the authentic knight or princess experience. Check out our list of amazing summer events at Bolton Castle here.
7. THE ENTERTAINING MAZE
It’s an irrefutable fact that kids love mazes. Lucky for them Bolton Castle boasts its very own magnificent maze where kids can lose themselves, and find themselves again, as many times as they like.
It’s just the right level of challenge so even the youngest visitors love it and you can hear the giggles of delight as they weave their way around the perfectly manicured hedges.
8. THE AMAZING BOARS
There’s something super special about watching your little ones’ faces light up when they encounter incredible creatures. And here you’ll see that pure joy at wild boar feeding, held every day at 4pm.
This species would have roamed freely around the castle in the 15th century and they’ve been brought back, so visitors can see them foraging and grunting! Our resident expert will tell you everything there is to know about them and the role they played in medieval history.
9. THE EXCITING SHOP
Naturally, this is another all-important stop on any family day out. And the children will be in their element at Bolton Castle’s inviting gift shop.
There are plenty of pocket money toys and books to choose from and also brilliant kids’ activity packs in brightly coloured bags so they can pick their favourite.
10. THE EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION
With its excellent location, the castle is an unmissable family attraction in the Yorkshire Dales as there’s lots to see in the surrounding areas. From woodland walks to paddling in waterfalls, and from ambling around villages to snacking on delicious Wensleydale cheese, your trip promises to be unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a summer holiday in Yorkshire or simply searching for one of the best family days out, Bolton Castle offers history, adventure and hands-on activities that will keep every member of the family entertained. And it’s open seven days a week, from 10am to 5pm, so you can easily incorporate a visit into your summer plans.
We’re looking forward to welcoming you, so book your tickets here today. Remember, if you have Historic Houses membership, you get free access to Bolton Castle and, if you have English Heritage membership, you’ll receive discounted entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The castle, gardens and shop are open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm and the tea room is open from 10am to 4pm daily. Check online for up-to-date information about dates the castle and grounds are closed for weddings and private events. The castle closes for winter between November and March.
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Yes. Bolton Castle is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Yorkshire thanks to its mix of history, activities, birds of prey experiences, wild boar feeding, beautiful gardens, entertaining maze, picnic areas and tea room. It appeals to children of all ages, including babies, toddlers and older kids. If you have a young baby, you may want to bring a baby carrier for the spiral staircases.
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As long as you want! There’s plenty to occupy visitors for an entire day. Most families spend between three and five hours exploring the castle, gardens and daily activities.
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Yes. Much of the castle is indoors, with five floors to explore, making it a great family rainy day activity in Yorkshire.
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No. Dogs aren’t permitted inside the castle or gardens because they may frighten the birds of prey. Assistance dogs are welcome. Dogs can be walked in the parking field and on nearby public footpaths.
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Yes. Paid parking is available in the visitor car park opposite the castle entrance, making it easy for families with children and picnics.
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Booking in advance is recommended during school holidays and special events, although tickets are also available on arrival (subject to availability). You can book your Bolton Castle tickets online and start planning one of the best family days out in Yorkshire.
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Yes. Many visitors come to enjoy the outdoor spaces, including four beautiful gardens, the bowling green and vineyard. Buy tickets for the gardens only here.
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Due to being built in 1399, Bolton Castle is not fully wheelchair accessible and it has narrow medieval spiral staircases, uneven cobbled areas, stone steps at the entrance and no disabled toilets. However, the grounds, tearoom and gift shop are accessible.
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Yes. Registered carers receive free admission. The person they are caring for is charged the standard admission price.
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The castle is located at the heart of Wensleydale in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It overlooks the village of Castle Bolton and is a few miles away from the market town of Leyburn. Other nearby landmarks include Aysgarth Falls, The Forbidden Corner and Leyburn.