Things To Do
in Skipton
Skipton is a historic market town set at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, known for its imposing medieval castle and friendly, compact town center. The architecture is a mix of stone-built houses and narrow lanes that reveal centuries of trading and countryside culture. The town sits beside the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, offering relaxing waterside scenery and easy access to outdoor adventures.
With markets, independent shops, and nearby limestone scenery, Skipton blends heritage with natural beauty for a quintessential Yorkshire experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Skipton Railway Station and settle into a boutique B&B or riverside hotel. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee overlooking the canal basin as the morning light dances on the water. Feel the anticipation building as you plan the days ahead with a local map in hand.
Head to Skipton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in England. Explore the ramparts and hidden chambers, imagining life in the 12th century. Pop into the onsite tea room for a slice of homemade cake in the castle courtyard.
Wander down Skipton’s bustling High Street and choose a traditional Yorkshire pub for dinner. Sample tender lamb chops or a classic fish and chips alongside a locally brewed ale. Toast to your first night as live acoustic music drifts through the snug.
Wake early and head to Skipton’s covered market, one of the longest in Britain. Browse stalls overflowing with local cheeses, fresh produce, and handcrafted gifts while chatting with friendly vendors. Pick up artisanal bread and cured meats for a spontaneous picnic.
Stroll along the cobbled High Street and duck into independent boutiques and antique shops. Discover hidden courtyards adorned with flower baskets and stop for a cream tea in a cozy café. Take your treats to the market square and savor them al fresco.
Attend a storytelling evening at a medieval inn, where local historians share legends of Craven’s past. Sip on warming mulled cider as flickering candlelight illuminates the timber beams overhead. Let the tales transport you to bygone eras before returning to your lodging.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🧁Snacking or bakery item | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and a well-preserved castle
- Easy access to the Yorkshire Dales and countryside
- Friendly locals and a walkable town center
- Great markets and local produce
- Limited late-night entertainment compared with bigger cities
- Weather can be changeable for outdoor plans
- Some popular eateries may require advance planning on busy days
- Rail and road links are good but not as frequent as larger towns
Places to Visit in Skipton
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic medieval fortress perched above the town, offering striking towers, battlements, and panoramic town views.
Tranquil waterway scenes with canal boats, weirs, and reflections ideal for wide-angle shots.
Golden stone arches, woodland trails, and the rushing Strid Water provide dramatic nature shots.
Historic railway structures and vintage steam trains set against rolling countryside.
Food in Skipton
Skipton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Sunday roast accompaniment featuring a fluffy baked pudding topped with gravy and tender beef.
Must-Try!
A creamy, tangy cheese from nearby Wensleydale, perfect with crusty bread or fruit and Yorkshire chutneys.
A sticky, ginger-spiced cake that’s a Yorkshire teatime favorite, especially in the colder months.
A hearty, comforting dish of seasoned meat under a layer of mashed potato, widely available in pubs and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market held on market days on the High Street where you can find fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and local crafts.
A periodic market offering local meats, dairy, baked goods, and seasonal produce from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely and wait your turn in shops and at market stalls.
A simple greeting like 'Hello' and 'Please' and 'Thank you' goes a long way; maintain a friendly, unhurried pace.
Be mindful around historic sites; follow signage and stay on designated paths to protect fragile grounds.
Safety
Tipping in Skipton
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in pubs is not compulsory; if service charges aren’t added, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated for table service. Casual cafes may not expect tips, but good service is valued.
Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still handy for small markets and some pubs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with fresh greens and early wildflowers; carry a light jacket for cool mornings and changeable showers.
Longer days and lighter evenings, ideal for canal walks and outdoor dining; expect occasional rain and warm spells.
Crisp air, changing foliage, and harvest flavors in markets; layers and waterproofs are handy.
Shorter days with potential frosts; cozy pubs and cafes are perfect for evening plans; bring sturdy footwear for wet paths.
Skipton at Night
Hiking in Skipton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic cliff formation with striking limestone scenery and easier to moderate trails nearby.
Dramatic limestone ravine offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
One of the Yorkshire Three Peaks; a popular long day hike with expansive views.
Another peak within striking distance offering panoramic upland vistas.
Airports
How to reach Skipton by plane.
Approximately 30 miles away; easy train or road access from Skipton for domestic and European flights.
About 85 miles away; major international hub with extensive rail and road connections from northern England.
Approximately 120 miles away; offers a range of European and domestic flights with onward rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families enjoy parks, markets, and kid-friendly heritage sites like the castle.
Quiet streets, scenic walks, and café culture make Skipton appealing for comfortable, relaxed visits.
Romantic countryside access, cozy pubs, and markets provide a relaxed, intimate experience.
Proximity to the Dales attracts hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking day trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community teams; matches are a common weekend activity in the region.
Rural and town cricket clubs feature during the summer months and weekend fixtures.
Gateway terrain to the Dales encourages outdoor enthusiasts to explore nearby peaks and moors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Skipton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians will find vegetable-forward mains, cheese-focused dishes, and adaptable pub classics. Ask for meat-free options or sauces and buns that suit a vegetarian diet.