Skipton & Area

The Gateway to the Dales.....

Embsay Moor

Nearby Buckden village

Skipton Canal

Skipton Castle

Panel 1
Panel 2
Panel 3
Panel 4

Skipton is known locally as the ‘Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’ as a short distance away is all the many attractions and scenic delights that the Yorkshire Dales has to offer.

Skipton itself is an attractive market town serving a large rural area. It is situated in the Aire gap separating the Craven limestone Dales to the north, the gritstone moors to the south, and the pastoral Ribble valley to the west.

One of the most dominating buildings in the town is Skipton Castle and at over 900 years old it is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England. Visitors are welcome to explore the impressive structure and with family events often organised in the holiday seasons, it makes a great day out for all the family.

Meandering through the heart of the town is Britain’s longest canal (Starting in Leeds and ending in Liverpool). You can hire your very own barge or take a tour on a ‘Pennine Boat Trip’. The canal also offers a great cycle route stretching from Leeds to Liverpool with a toe path all the way along the 187 mile journey.

Another attraction within the town is the market which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Trading takes place from 9am to 4pm, with 58 traders selling everything from fresh fruit, veg and fish to clothing and household goods. As well as the market stalls there are a good selection of shops, restaurant and pubs in town.

Skipton is a great place to base yourself if you want to explore the Yorkshire Dales with Kettlewell, Bolton Abbey and Grassington all just a short car or bus journey away.

Things to do in Skipton & Area

Skipton Castle

One of England's most complete medieval castles standing above the bustling market town of Skipton. Visitors can explore the whole castle which notably withstood three years of siege during the English Civil War.

Read more about Skipton Castle (External)

Bolton Abbey Railway

Travel between Embsay station, built in 1888, and the new award-winning station at Bolton Abbey. Your journey takes you through picturesque Yorkshire Dales scenery. Enjoy special Thomas the Tank Engine rides and a visit from Santa at Christmas!

Read more about Bolton Abbey Railway (External)

Skipton Market

Visit this long running market in the town that boasts the location of ‘The Gateway to the Dales’ Market days are Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Stalls vary from meat, fruit and veg to clothes, cards and plants.

Read more about Skipton Market (External)

Pennine Bridleway - Horse Riding

The Pennine Bridleway is a new 350 mile long National Trail in the North of England.

Read more about Pennine Bridleway - Horse Riding

Pennine Cruisers

Take a 30 minute tour of the beautiful Leeds Liverpool canal around Skipton, the Gateway to the Dales.

Mary Toodley Loop - Horse Riding

The Mary Towneley Loop, is a 42 mile circular route which forms part of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail.

Read more about Mary Toodley Loop - Horse Riding

Coniston Hall - Fishing

The lake is set in 24 acres of magnificent grounds of a large hotel and makes for a peaceful days fly fishing. Both boat and bank fly fishing are available. The Coniston Hall lake is open for fly fishing from 1st April to 1st October inclusive.