Mulgrave Castle Ruins
Discover substantial medieval castle ruins hidden within the tranquil Mulgrave Wood, offering a free historical adventure and scenic woodland walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Woods are open, fewer crowds
Mulgrave Castle Ruins
Best Time
Woods are open, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover substantial medieval castle ruins hidden within the tranquil Mulgrave Wood, offering a free historical adventure and scenic woodland walks.
"A bit of a hidden gem this. Lovely woodland walk...The castle ruins are surprisingly large and substantial. Well worth seeing."
Check Access Days
Woods are only open Wed, Sat & Sun. Closed all of May!
Parking Near Sandsend
Park at the Crown Inn pub for a small fee (cash only) or near the bridge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Substantial Castle Ruins
Mulgrave Wood
Explore surprisingly large and well-preserved castle ruins, offering a glimpse into history amidst a beautiful woodland setting.
Woodland Wanderings
Mulgrave Wood
Enjoy a scenic walk through Mulgrave Wood, with diverse trails and the chance to spot wild deer in the distance.
Coastal Proximity
Sandsend
Conveniently located near Sandsend, combine your castle visit with a stroll along the beach and enjoying local fish and chips.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Opening Times
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access Days
Woods are only open Wed, Sat & Sun. Closed all of May!
Parking Near Sandsend
Park at the Crown Inn pub for a small fee (cash only) or near the bridge.
Visiting North Yorkshire Coast for a week (Staithes, Whitby, Scarborough area). Any recommendations on where to go and things to do?
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and some paths are steep.
Bring a Map (or GPS)
Signage can be tricky, so be prepared to navigate.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Days
Woods are only open Wed, Sat & Sun. Closed all of May!
Parking Near Sandsend
Park at the Crown Inn pub for a small fee (cash only) or near the bridge.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven and some paths are steep.
Bring a Map (or GPS)
Signage can be tricky, so be prepared to navigate.
Combine with Beach Visit
Sandsend is nearby for fish & chips after your walk!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Mulgrave Castle Ruins to be a charming, free historical site set within beautiful woodland. The substantial ruins and peaceful atmosphere are frequently praised, though some note inconsistent signage and steep paths. It's a worthwhile visit for those seeking a less-crowded historical exploration combined with a nature walk.
"Sunday 3rd August
Good sized car park near the entrance and lots of different paths to choose from.
Not the best for signage on the paths, but easy enough to find your way round.
Only steep section is the path with steps that leads to the castle, but there is another path leads to it.
Worth a visit if you havn't been."
Alan Holmes
"Bit of a hidden gem this. Lovely woodland walk (only open to the public on Wednesday & weekends). The castle ruins are surprisingly large and substantial. Well worth seeing."
TERESA HARVEY
"We planned the walk to this Castle as part of a circular near to where we were staying on holiday. Visiting is free. The castle and its surroundings seem to be well looked after. It was a joy seeing the wild deer in the distance. We walked from the carpark in Sandsend, access is only permitted over the weekend through the logging site."
Leila Pilkington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ruins are located within Mulgrave Wood. Access is typically from Sandsend. You can park near the Crown Inn pub (cash only fee) or by the bridge in Sandsend.
There isn't direct parking at the ruins themselves. The closest parking is in Sandsend, with options near the Crown Inn or by the bridge, which then requires a walk through the woods.
Information on direct public transport to the specific entrance points is limited. It's best to check local bus routes to Sandsend and then walk.
While there isn't a specific postcode for the ruins, the nearby Ryedale Folk Museum has a postcode of YO62 6UA, which can be a useful reference point for the general area.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Mulgrave Wood, but it's always good practice to keep them on a lead, especially if you encounter wildlife.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Mulgrave Castle Ruins themselves is free.
The Mulgrave Wood is open to the public on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is closed throughout the entire month of May.
Yes, as long as it falls on a Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday, you can visit during the winter months, weather permitting.
The entry to the ruins is free. Parking in Sandsend may incur a small fee, particularly if using the designated pub car park.
The main restriction is the limited opening days (Wed, Sat, Sun) and the closure in May. Be mindful of the woodland environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore substantial castle ruins, wander through scenic woodland trails, and potentially spot wildlife like deer.
Some paths are well-maintained, but there is a steep section with steps. Alternative routes are available, but it's not fully accessible for all mobility levels.
Signage can be inconsistent, so it might be a bit challenging to find initially. Using a map or GPS can be helpful.
A leisurely walk through the woods, taking in the atmosphere, and then exploring the ruins at your own pace is recommended.
Yes, there are information boards at the site that provide details about the history and significance of the ruins.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the atmospheric ruins against the woodland backdrop, the winding forest paths, and any wildlife you might encounter.
The combination of ancient ruins and the natural beauty of Mulgrave Wood offers excellent opportunities for landscape and historical photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful dramatic effects on the ruins and through the trees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities at the ruins are minimal. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain. The limited opening days mean planning is key, but the free entry makes it an accessible option for a family outing.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the woodland environment, the potential for birdwatching, and the overall tranquility of the area. The proximity to the coast also allows for a combined nature and coastal walk.
Be sure to check the opening days and times to maximize your visit. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mulgrave Wood
It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear as some sections can be muddy or uneven. While the natural beauty is a major draw, be prepared for potentially inconsistent signage. Bringing a map or using a GPS device can enhance your experience and ensure you don't miss any of the hidden nooks within the wood.
The woods are a key part of the experience, providing the journey to the historical ruins. The atmosphere within Mulgrave Wood is often described as peaceful and enchanting, making it a perfect spot for a nature walk before or after exploring the castle remnants.
The History of Mulgrave Castle
While the exact timeline of its decline and abandonment is complex, the ruins stand as a significant historical landmark in the North Yorkshire landscape. Information boards at the site aim to provide visitors with context about its former glory and the lives of those who inhabited it.
For those interested in local history, Mulgrave Castle Ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. The substantial nature of the remaining structures suggests a once-imposing presence, making it an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit