About

The grounds of Pickering Castle are open. Our shop is open but all other indoor areas remain closed, and safety measures are in place to keep everyone safe. You need to book your visit in advance. Please keep in mind the government’s latest advice on travelling. Find out more below.

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.

Important Information: - 

You now need to book your timed tickets in advance to visit Pickering Castle. We have introduced limits on visitor numbers to help keep everyone safe, and you won't be able to visit without your booking confirmation. If you're a member your ticket will be free, but you still need to book in advance.

You can only book for visits until 16 May. Tickets for visits after this date will go on sale as soon as we have more details of our opening arrangements. 

The time shown on your ticket is the earliest you can arrive, and you can arrive at any point within an hour of that time. You're then welcome to stay for as long as you like.