The lovely old medieval Helmsley Castle sits proudly atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Wye below. It is set within the lovely and historic market town of Helmsley in the North York Moors National Park.
The 900 year old castle’s imposing and ruined remains dominate the local skyline. Like many castles, it fires up the imaginations of many visitors, young and old, who are keen to learn of the history and exciting stories of colourful characters over the centuries.
Helmsley Castle
The Castle’s Highlights:
- Explore the enjoyable hands-on exhibition in the old mansion house
- Be photographed with the bronzed archers ready for battle
- Enjoy the fascinating audio tour of the castle
- Check out the intriguing model castle displaying how it once looked
- Scenic walk from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey
- Free guided tours of Helmsley Archaeology Store
- Shop, food and drink, spacious gardens & picnic area
History of Helmsley Castle
Helmsley Castle was originally built as a strategic defence against the marauding Scots by Walter l’Espec back in 1120. He was also delightfully named as ‘Walter The Woodpecker’ who also founded the nearby Rievaulx Abbey (1.9 miles away) and nearby Kirkham Priory and was a prominent military and judicial figure of the reign of Henry I of England.
However the first real action it saw was not until the English Civil War where it held out for King Charles I whilst under siege for 3 months during 1644. It eventually surrendering to Oliver Cromwell’s men and the English Parliamentarians under Lord Fairfax. After which, parliament ordered that Helmsley Castle be ‘slighted’ which resulted in the majority of the walls, gates and East Tower keep being destroyed. The Great Keep was literally blown in half by the explosion! The original mansion house was spared the destruction and became the home the 2nd Duke of Buckingham.
Bronzed Archers Protecting the Castle
A Popular Visitor Attraction
Nowadays it is a much more peaceful place to be and has been made into a very popular visitor attraction by English Heritage. The brand new visitor centre highlights its fascinating history. The old Tudor mansion house offers an imaginative hands-on exhibition regaling the tales of battles and life in the castle over the centuries.
Take the chance to walk across to Rievaulx Abbey and Byland Abbey nearby or meander the bustling market square, the charming tea rooms, the inviting pubs and curio shops of Helmsley.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
Prices:
Adults: – From £8.50
Children: – From £4.50
- Discounted Family Tickets are available
- 10% off if booked on line – Book Tickets for Helmsley Castle
- Helmsley Castle Guidebooks available to buy
For other inspiration ideas of what to ‘see and do’, go to our ‘Places to Visit’
