Things to do in Skipton

Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor

Skipton has the perfect mix of lesser known gems like Art in the Pen and Skipton Little Theatre as well as must see attractions such as the Castle and Castle Woods. If you’re interested in the local heritage, the Craven Museum in Skipton Town Hall is a must. Having started as a hobby for local enthusiasts, their collection now has over 60,000 objects spanning geology, social and natural history as well as archaeology. The Town Hall is another key venue in Skipton and is home of North Yorkshire’s only professional orchestra, Skipton Camerata.

There are plenty of artistic activities to get involved with. Craven Arts Studios regularly host workshops with their resident artists where you can learn new skills or embark on longer courses to develop your own practise. Magpie, Two for Joy is another must visit for the artistically inclined. Their shop come gallery, come print studio, is a place you can buy and make quirky yet beautiful things.

The town centre is packed with independent local business. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll notice the pride people take in their local makers and producers, whether they’re selling locally made gifts or fresh bread and coffee. In terms of eating out, there’s a lot of choice. Skipton has a wide range of cuisines available with each restaurant making the most of the produce on their doorstep. You can find delicious Indian, French and contemporary British dishes within walking distance of the centre as well as by the canal, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can even dine in what was once a prison for Craven District’s felons and sheep rustlers.

We are just scratching the surface of what the area has to offer, but scroll down and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Skipton.

Our top picks

Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle, The Bailey, Skipton, BD23 1AW - Visit now

As one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval castle in the country, Skipton Castle was built in 1090 and is well worth a visit.

Skipton Castle

Skipton Town Hall

Skipton Town Hall, High Street, Skipton, BD23 1AH - Visit now

Skipton Town Hall sits at the centre of the highstreet providing a home for heritage, performance and art.

Skipton Town Hall

Magpie – Two for Joy

Magpie – Two for Joy, Albion Square, Otley St, Skipton, BD23 1ED - Visit now

Gift shop, printmakers and gallery shop in one, Magpie sell a locally sourced collection of wonderful and beautiful things as well as hosting workshops.

Magpie

Skipton Castle Woods

Skipton Castle Woods, The Bailey, Skipton, BD23 1AW - Visit now

Skipton Castle Woods has idyllic spaces to walk and play in as well as a wealth of local wildlife, check out their events and tours.

skipton castle woods
Woodland Trust

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