Richmond Castle
A remarkably preserved Norman castle offering breathtaking views over Richmond and the Yorkshire Dales, with a unique garden and engaging history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Richmond Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved Norman castle offering breathtaking views over Richmond and the Yorkshire Dales, with a unique garden and engaging history.
"Climb the keep for fantastic views all round; a great day out with fascinating history."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and climbing the keep. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious grassy areas inside the castle walls. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Norman Keep
Richmond Castle
Climb to the top of the remarkably preserved Norman keep for breathtaking panoramic views of Richmond town and the Yorkshire Dales.
Cockpit Garden
Richmond Castle
Discover the unique, secluded 'cockpit' garden nestled within the castle walls, offering a peaceful escape and a touch of historical charm.
Interactive History Exhibition
Richmond Castle
Explore the engaging exhibition detailing the castle's rich history and the lives of its inhabitants, bringing the past to life.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and climbing the keep. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious grassy areas inside the castle walls. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning panoramic vistas from the keep. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Exploration
Great for kids, but supervise closely near steep drops. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring uneven terrain and climbing the keep. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious grassy areas inside the castle walls. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning panoramic vistas from the keep. :camerawithflash:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Exploration
Great for kids, but supervise closely near steep drops. :child:
📜 History Buff's Delight
The exhibition room offers fascinating insights into the castle's past. :scroll:
🍦 Local Treats Nearby
Enjoy ice creams and local gin from the shop or nearby town. :icecream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Richmond Castle for its stunning views from the keep and its well-preserved Norman architecture. The interactive exhibition and the charming 'cockpit' garden are also highlights. While the castle is family-friendly, caution is advised near unfenced steep drops. Some visitors enjoy the historical re-enactments and the convenience of the nearby town.
"Partially ruined castle with the keep still standing and accessible giving fantastic views over the surrounding countryside
There is a large grassy areas inside the walls suitable for games and picnic.
One dide of the castle ends in a steep drop and isn't adequately fenced off so keep an eye on children
There is also a small exhibition room just off the entrance charting the history of the castle and its inhabitants which is quite interesting"
Eleven
"Great views fro. The Richmond Castle over town and surrounding areas. We had an English Heritage pass so no additional charge ... Nice little shop with selection of ice creams and some local gin too."
Kinga L
"Great day at Richmond Castle again.
Norman re-enactment group, in place over this weekend. Very good showing different types of Armour and weapons of that time. Shields, maces and of course swords.
Stalls talking about the found options at the time with taste options, cheese cake very nice, but not like modern cheese cake.
Another stall concentrated on the types of medicines at the time, more options than you might think, very informative.
All in all a great day thanks"
Paul Hart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Richmond Castle is located in the heart of Richmond town, North Yorkshire. Parking is available in the town centre, with some disabled parking spots. A short uphill walk leads to the castle entrance.
Yes, there is parking available in the Richmond town centre. It can get busy, especially on market days or during events.
Absolutely! Richmond Castle is a fantastic stop on a Yorkshire Dales road trip, offering historical insights and stunning views. Many TikToks showcase it as part of wider Dales adventures.
Richmond town is served by bus routes, making it accessible by public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The town of Richmond itself is charming to wander through. You can also walk down to the station via the falls, or explore Easby Abbey along the drummer boy walk for a circular route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply, but if you have an English Heritage pass, there is no additional charge.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official English Heritage website for the most current opening times before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or for special events, is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Yes, an English Heritage pass covers entry to Richmond Castle, which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple heritage sites.
Richmond Castle offers accessible toilets and facilities for disabled visitors, making it a welcoming site for all.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the well-preserved Norman keep for incredible views, wander through the 'cockpit' garden, and discover the history in the interactive exhibition room. The grassy areas inside the walls are perfect for picnics and games.
One side of the castle has a steep drop and is not adequately fenced, so close supervision of children is advised.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the historic architecture and stunning views.
While specific guided tours might not be daily, the exhibition provides historical context. Keep an eye out for special event weekends which may feature re-enactments.
Richmond Castle primarily represents the Norman period, with its origins dating back to shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1071. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small shop at Richmond Castle that sells a selection of ice creams and some local gin.
The town of Richmond offers various cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Many visitors enjoy exploring the town centre for dining options after their castle visit.
Yes, bringing a picnic is a great idea! The large grassy areas inside the castle walls are perfect for enjoying your own food.
During special event weekends, you might find stalls offering historical food options, such as traditional cheesecake.
The castle shop offers ice creams and a selection of local gin.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the Norman keep offers unparalleled panoramic views of Richmond and the surrounding Dales. The 'cockpit' garden also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone photography can vary. It's advisable to check with English Heritage or local authorities before flying a drone over the castle or its grounds.
Richmond Castle is ideal for landscape photography, historical site photography, and even vintage-style portraits due to its architecture.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for dramatic shots of the castle and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, making for a fun and affordable family meal within the historic grounds. The nearby town also offers ice cream shops, a guaranteed hit with kids after exploring the castle.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with explorations of the surrounding town and nearby Easby Abbey to gain a broader understanding of the region's historical significance. Keep an eye out for special event weekends, which often feature historical re-enactments that offer a vivid glimpse into different eras.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the castle itself, the surrounding town, the falls, and Easby Abbey offer additional picturesque scenes. The castle's historical architecture also lends itself well to capturing dramatic and atmospheric shots, making it a versatile location for various photography styles.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of Norman Architecture
+1Exploring the interior of the keep reveals the functional design of these medieval structures. While much of the original interior has been lost to time, the sheer scale and engineering prowess are evident. Visitors can imagine the lives of soldiers and lords who inhabited these formidable walls. The castle's history also includes periods of passing through various noble families, with the keep likely being constructed around 1160 by Conan IV.
The castle's location, perched high above the River Swale, further emphasizes its defensive importance. The views from the top are not just scenic but also strategic, allowing for early detection of any approaching threats. This strategic positioning is a key characteristic of many Norman castles built across England.
Beyond the Castle Walls: Exploring Richmond Town
For those looking to extend their exploration, a walk down to the Richmond Station via the falls is highly recommended. This area provides beautiful scenery and a chance to enjoy an ice cream. From the station, you can continue along the drummer boy walk to Easby Abbey, creating a scenic circular route that showcases the historical and natural beauty of the region. This combination of castle, town, and abbey offers a comprehensive historical and leisurely day out.
The Green Howard's regimental museum is also located nearby, offering further insights into local military history. This proximity makes Richmond a hub for history enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into the stories of the area.
A Glimpse into Edwardian Grandeur (Sri Lankan Richmond Castle)
+3The architecture of the Sri Lankan Richmond Castle is described as having an Indo-Saracenic blend, featuring grand halls, carved stairways, and beautiful gardens. It's noted as a perfect spot for vintage-style portraits and cinematic clips, offering a different kind of historical and aesthetic appeal. The mansion whispers stories of Ceylon's colonial past and is a significant heritage site.
+1This mansion has also been a backdrop for notable events, including being featured in advertising campaigns by Dolce&Gabbana. Its well-preserved state, despite being over 100 years old, adds to its charm and allure for visitors interested in colonial architecture and history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit