About

Located in the historic market town of Pontefract, from its construction in 1070 to its demise following the Civil Wars, the once-fearsome fortress of Pontefract Castle dominated Yorkshire and beyond, bearing witness to some of England’s most momentous historical events earning itself the name of the Key to the North!


Today, the castle is a place of family-friendly adventure, with wide open spaces to explore and play, and fascinating ruins to investigate. Ignite your imagination as you explore the pathways and take in some of the imposing stonework. Climb to the top of the keep and see the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, and visit the castle gift shop for a colourful range of souvenirs, gifts, books and ice creams.


There’s masses of stuff to occupy families, younger visitors can get creative and test out their soldier skills while having a go at some civil war training activities on information boards around the grounds. You’ll find awesome displays along with some of the fascinating objects found at the castle from centuries gone by.


The children’s playground is the perfect place for young visitors to burn off some energy and create their own castle adventures.


Need refuelling? Stop off at the Castle Coffee Shop for hot and cold drinks and snacks.


GROUNDS:


Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 4.30pm


Saturday & Sunday: 9:30am – 4.30pm


Play area open 10am-4pm daily


Last entry 30 minutes before closing.


VISITOR CENTRE AND GIFT SHOP:


Monday & Tuesday: Closed


Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 4pm


CASTLE COFFEE SHOP:


Monday & Tuesday: Closed


Wednesday – Sunday: 11am – 3pm


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Venue opening hours

Monday : 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday : 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday : 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday : 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday : 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday : 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Sunday : 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

    Access facilities

  • Accessible Car Parking
  • Accessible Toilet
  • Baby Changing Facilities
  • Guide Dogs Welcome
  • Hearing Aid Loop
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Venue Details

Find us at

Castle Garth, Pontefract, WF8 1QH

Phone

01977723440

Email

castles@wakefield.gov.uk

Venue Facilities

  • Cafe on Site
  • Dog Friendly
  • Free Parking
  • Gift Shop
  • Good To Go
  • Picnic Area
  • Playground
  • Toilets