$Pontefract Castle$ Pontefract Castle

$The remains of the keep and curtain wall at Pontefract Castle with a tree overhanging in the foreground$

Discover one of Yorkshire’s most important historic landmarks. Pontefract Castle is a dramatic medieval fortress with many stories to tell. It was involved in royal scandals and Civil War sieges. Today, it is a beloved community space. Explore the ruins. Enjoy family activities. Experience centuries of history brought to life.

What's on at Pontefract Castle for the school holidays

There's loads of low-cost and no-cost activities across our sites during the school holidays! Check out our handy guide.

School holidays guide

$Two adults, one with a child on their shoulders, walking along and smiling at Pontefract Castle$

Plan your visit to Pontefract Castle

Find Pontefract Castle's opening times and facilities here. Learn how to get to Pontefract Castle.

$Two older gentleman walking alongside their friend in a mobility scooter along a path at Pontefract Castle$

Access information at Pontefract Castle

Find access information for Pontefract Castle, including moving around our spaces, toilets and parking.

A bowl with soup and a crusty bread roll on a plate, with a cup of tea behind

The Keep Café

Find opening times and current menu for The Keep Café at Pontefract Castle.

$The Gift Shop at Pontefract Castle with sweets, soft toys, dressing up costumes and books for sale$

Gift Shop

Find opening times and product ranges for the Gift Shop at Pontefract Castle.

An adult pointing out part of the castle ruins to a child

Things to see at Pontefract Castle

There’s so much to see at Pontefract Castle! From towering ruins to deep dungeons, what will you discover?

$A child shining a torch on historic graffiti in the Pontefract Castle dungeon$

Things to do at Pontefract Castle

There’s lots to do at Pontefract Castle. Discover Pontefract’s past in a family-friendly way here at the castle.

$Two adults and a child walking along the path around Pontefract Castle$

Information for families visiting Pontefract Castle

Find information about visiting Pontefract Castle for families of all shapes and sizes.

$A large group of children and adults listening to a story at Pontefract Castle$

Group visits to Pontefract Castle

Find out about organising group visits to Pontefract Castle.

$The Keirincx oil painting of Pontefract Castle in its heyday, a large imposing castle with many different towers looking down over a rural settlement$