Pontefract

Welcome to Pontefract

Located in the heart of West Yorkshire, this historic market town is home to the picturesque ruins of one of England’s most important castles (once known as “The Key To The North”) as well as a brace of beautiful parks, some outstanding examples of Georgian architecture, a whole host of independent boutiques and coffee shops and a vibrant nightlife.
The town has history galore – synonymous with the cultivation and production of Liquorice, and the site of the first secret ballot, this is a place where the country’s fate was decided more than once; uncover these and other stories at Pontefract Museum.
Sports fans take note – the town is also home to Pontefract Racecourse, the longest continuous flat racing circuit in Europe.

Places to visit

Visitors love...

Experience Wakefield