Set in a stunning location towering over the River Nidd stands Knaresborough Castle, one of the North’s most impressive castles. The Castle, open to visitors from 25 March, was originally built 900 years ago. King John, Edward I and II lavished money to create this Royal Castle, which boasts a beautiful King’s Tower, dry moat and walls with 12 towers.
A visit to the Castle & Museum, open daily from 11am until 4pm, offers lots to do – our newly refurbished displays explore Castle life and Knaresborough’s colourful characters. Don’t miss your chance roam the Castle remains, scuttling through the secret underground tunnel and descending deep into the depths of the dungeon.
This year we have a host of exciting events …
- Midsummer Night Dances, Thursday 14th May, 7pm
Join us as we take part in national Museums at Night Festival. This year the King’s Tower will enjoy a specially commissioned dance performance. - Family Fun Day, Saturday 23rd May, 11am – 4pm
Fresh air, fun and family activities await you at Knaresborough Castle’s first ever Family Fun Day. Join us for lots of games, sports and crafts for all the family! Make sure you leave time to uncover the secrets of the Castle’s underground tunnel and dungeon. - Chapterhouse Theatre Company Presents Jane Eyre, Saturday 18th July, 7.30pm
Young governess Jane Eyre arrives at the mysterious Thornfield Hall deep in the Yorkshire moors and meets enigmatic Mr Rochester. So begins this most unforgettable of love stories. When a secret from the past returns to haunt them, can Jane and Rochester’s passion survive the forces that might tear them apart forever? Adapted from Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel, Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents one of the greatest romances of English literature. This beautiful story of undying love is brought alive under a summer sky at Knaresborough Castle. - Medieval Family Day, Saturday 22nd August, 11am – 4pm
Who can resist a day of fun and games at a real medieval castle?! Enjoy a host of family events; for the brave young knights there are medieval sword fighting workshops, where chivalry is just as important as sword skills. Afterwards make an appointment with the Barber Surgeon and discover the gruesome ‘treatments’ they would prescribe for war wounds! 2015 is the 600th anniversary of the battle Agincourt, and there is no better way to commemorate this great English victory than learning how to be an accomplished Archer at ‘Have-A-Go Archery’.
Knaresborough Castle will also play host to a medieval tournament with period combat performances and thrilling birds of prey displays. Plus fun crafts, activities and tours of the castle and its Sallyport will run throughout the day.
The Castle and Grounds are open daily from 25 March until 27 September between 11am – 4pm. Entry is £3.40 for adults, £1.90 children, £2.30 concessions, £9.50 family ticket.
To find out more tel 01423 556188, email museums@harrogate.gov.uk or visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/knaresboroughcastle