Skipton

The delightful town of Skipton is worth a visit whether you enjoy history, art, shopping or just messing about on the water.

All age-groups are attracted to Skipton Castle tucked away at the top of the High Street. Visitors can wander from room to room of this superbly-preserved castle which has a history going back to the Normans.

It is largely associated with the Clifford family whose home it was from the start of the 14 th Century.

Inside Skipton Castle's 14th Century chapel, sculptures by renowned international artist Harrison Wilding will be on view until September.

Find the massive yew tree in Conduit Court at the heart of the castle which was planted there in 1659 and don't forget a peep inside the dungeons.

New refurbishment can also be seen in the stonework surrounding the chapel windows.

Take time to seek out the tombs of members of the Clifford family in Holy Trinity Parish Church in front of the castle.

The church was built in 1120 and rebuilt in 1300 but the bulk of the present building dates from 1480 when the church was extended to its present length.

Part of the town's special charm is that the canal runs through it. In summer the canal basin is busy with pleasure boats and its towpath with walkers.

The Craven Museum, in the town hall, is worth a look too and is packed with artifacts which tell the story of Skipton and the dale.

Shopaholics will love the wide range of shopping on offer from the delightful Craven Court, a charming arcade filled with unusual tiny shops, including some high street chains, to the famous market.

The market takes up both sides of the main street every day except Tuesday and Thursdays, and you can buy everything from Dales cheeses to a CD. It has the flavour of a typical Dales market town and anyone with an eye for a bargain shouldn't miss it.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Skipton and Craven Tourist Information Centre, 35 Coach Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 1LQ. Tel: 01756 792809; fax: 01756 700709; e-mail: skipton@ytbtic.co.uk.

ATTRACTIONS

Craven Museum - Skipton. Tel: 01756 706407. Local archaeology and social history. Open April to September 10am-5pm, Sundays 2-5pm. Closed Tuesdays. October to March 1.30-5pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm, closed Tuesdays and Sundays. Admission free.

Skipton Castle - High Street, Skipton. Tel: 01756 792442. 11th Century roofed castle. Open daily from 10am, Sunday noon. Last admission 4pm from October 1, March 6pm.