We had an absolutely wonderful time at Bolton Castle in Wensleydale with my wife, 12-year-old daughter, and 7-year-old son. Unlike the often structured National Trust visits, this privately-owned gem offered a delightfully relaxed and engaging experience. The maze was a highlight—our 7-year-old got a bit lost but loved every minute of it! The archery display was refreshingly low-key; the lovely staff member, who introduced herself as the falconry expert filling in for the archery session, was fantastic with the kids, ensuring everyone got a hands-on go. It was such a treat to have this kind of interactive experience, which is rare at many attractions.
The falconry display was simply brilliant, featuring a striking raven (a first for us!), a majestic eagle owl, and a charming young owl that the presenter clearly adored. Her passion made the experience even more special. We also enjoyed the coffee shop’s offerings and loved meeting the resident wild boars—a proper “sounder” as we learned! Bolton Castle is a must-visit for families seeking a fun, hands-on day out in a stunning setting. Highly recommend!
