Nestled away at the bottom of the Yorkshire Dales National Park boundary is the North Yorkshire Market Town of Skipton. The quaint historic town is often referred to as Skipton ‘The Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’ due to its closeness and the fact most people use it as a base to explore the beautiful Dales.
The town isn’t just a base camp. It has plenty to attract tourists. From its old-time welcoming ambience to its fantastic range of independent shops, bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a weekend away.
Perched at the top of the high street, Skipton Castle and Woods is the perfect place to start exploring this North Yorkshire town. It’s 900 years old and is the best-preserved castle in the whole of England and a Grade I-listed medieval castle. Step back in time as you explore the stone hallways, amazing courtyard and admire its beauty. Not just a back garden to the castle, the Castle Woods are a great place to wander and take in the beautiful nature surrounding it.
After you’ve finished exploring the castle, head down to the market, a central part of the town’s economy. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Friday and Saturdays – you’ll be able to find amazing local produce and items to buy before working up an appetite.
Make sure you visit the Craven Court shopping centre as well. It has a range of quaint boutique and independent shops and an incredible glass ceiling arcade made from a 16th-Century theatre.
If you’re looking for something to snack on whilst you’re out and about in Skipton Gateway to Yorkshire Dales, we can’t recommend Stanforth Butchers Ltd pie shop enough. They have some amazing pies to choose from, our favourite being a lamb and mint pie and a chilli pork pie – we are salivating just thinking about them. You won’t regret it.
Take a cruise or a wander down the Leeds and Liverpool canal and enjoy its romantic atmosphere. The relaxing work is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful town of Skipton. It’s 127 miles and it is Britain’s longest inland waterway
Some of our favourite places to eat and drink are the Woolly Sheep Inn, which serves some great ales and tasty food and Alexander’s Grand Café Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, which is beautiful inside and serves up some amazing cocktails.
Here’s our top picks of places to visit in Skipton:
- Skipton Castle & Woods
- Stanforth Butchers Ltd
- Leeds and Liverpool Canal
- Craver Court Shopping Centre
- The Woolly Sheep Inn
- Alexander’s Grand Café Restaurant, Bar & Terrace
- Skipton Market
- Two Sisters Bar & Kitchen
Read More: The Small Yorkshire Village That Has One Of The Richest Literary Histories In The Country
