Bolton Castle will be re-opening on Saturday 11 July, every day 10am to 5pm. Mindful of the government guidelines, changes have been made to their visitor admission and flow around the castle to ensure visitors can self-distance as much as possible during their time here. Please see website for further details. Visitor safety is a priority and the team will do their very best to make visits as easy and memorable as possible. The revised events schedule and activities have also been amended to reflect current Government guidelines, but they are keen to retain a fun and informative programme for visitors. See the website for details of events across the summer to October.
Visitors are asked to book tickets online ahead of a visit. Online Bolton Castle Tickets Visitors who have already booked will be given priority on arrival. This will enable visitors’ arrival to be monitored and limit cash transactions. If visitors do not have a pre-booked ticket, please be patient there may be a short wait prior to entry.
Commanding outstanding views across the Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Castle in Wensleydale boasts one of the most romantic settings in Yorkshire. Built as a luxurious home by Sir Richard Le Scrope 600 years ago, Bolton Castle is one of the best preserved medieval castles in the country and uniquely remains under the private ownership of Lord Bolton, a direct descendant of Sir Richard.
The Castle provides a fascinating insight into life within its walls and gardens, with a range of opportunities to see, enjoy and learn how life – warts and all – really was at the castle across the centuries. The castle also holds a unique position in history as the host of Mary, Queen of Scots, purportedly held here in captivity for the longest time, and who enjoyed some luxury which the Scottish Queen will not have experienced at her previous residence, Carlisle Castle. Bolton Castle’s The Solar, the family’s well-appointed suite of rooms, held her and her many servants until her escape with the help of her supporters. Local history reveals that she was eventually recaptured nearby on a hill which today bears the name Shawl Hill, after her shawl was reportedly found revealing her whereabouts.
Brought alive by a series of events and activities for visitors of all ages, the castle with its five floors, daily falconry displays and exceptional country gardens, including a maze and a small but perfectly formed walled vineyard, is the perfect day out for families of all ages, heritage buffs, educational groups and those who just want to enjoy the best that Yorkshire can provide as a day out. Most events are free with entry.
Daily tickets from £9 per adult, £7.50 concessions and £35 for a family ticket (2 adults, up to 3 concessions (must include one child). Annual membership is available. Garden tickets start at £4.50 per adult. If possible, please buy your ticket ahead of arrival.
Please note that our Tea Room will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only and we will record the names and contact details of our visitors, in line with current Government directives.
