Skipton Castle Visit

19 April, 2015
Trips

On a sunny but wintery day in November all the year 7 pupils had the opportunity to visit Skipton Castle. Pupils were given a very informative and in-depth tour of the castle in the morning. There were 5 groups led by guides who answered questions and helped the year 7 pupils to fully explore the castle from top to bottom. The guides were very informative and very entertaining. Over 900 years old, Skipton Castle is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England, despite enduring a three year siege during the English Civil War and is well worth a visit. After the battle of Marston Moor, it was the only Royalist stronghold left in the north.

However after it surrendered in 1645, Cromwell began to demolish the castle and remove the stones. After 10 years later Lady Anne Clifford was given permission to rebuild it as long as the walls were not as thick as before and could be demolished by firearms easily.

After lunch, the pupils worked in groups and collected information about Skipton Castle including details on the defensive structure and the internal layout of the castle. A quick visit to the gift shop on the way home added to a fun and informative day out.