Pickering - Moors

Pickering Castle

Built by William the Conqueror, this Royal castle was used by a succession of Medieval Kings as a hunting lodge, holiday home and stud farm.

About Pickering Castle

Situated in an attractive market town at the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors, Pickering Castle is a classic 12th century motte-and-bailey castle. The grassy mount and the curtain walls punctuated by tall towers are the most prominent features of this royal fortress. The mound was raised by William the Conqueror, and the stonework added for Henry III as a necessary defence against the Scots. The last additions to the defences of the castle were the outer entrance, curtain wall and three towers, built on the orders of Edward II.

Set amidst one of the largest forests in the country, Pickering Castle was used by a succession of medieval Kings as a hunting lodge and holiday home. By the time of the Civil War its military purpose had long been abandoned, and most of the castle was left to decay. A special exhibition in the chapel explores the castle's fascinating history.

Opening hours

  1. Monday

    10:00 - 17:00

  2. Tuesday

    10:00 - 17:00

  3. Wednesday

    10:00 - 17:00

  4. Thursday

    10:00 - 17:00

  5. Friday

    10:00 - 17:00

  6. Saturday

    10:00 - 17:00

  7. Sunday

    10:00 - 17:00

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View across Nidderdale - trees, fields, drystone walls and blue sky