Shakespeare’s As You Like It

What time does the event start?

Gates open from 5:30pm, performance starts at 6:30pm and finishes around 8:30pm. 

Is there an interval? 

There is a 20-minute interval around 7:15pm. 

Will the performance go on if it’s raining? 

Yes. In the case of adverse weather, the event will not be cancelled and will go ahead as planned. If adverse weather does cause us to cancel you will be advised ahead of time. Only in the event of us cancelling will a refund be offered.

Do you offer refunds or exchanges?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Only in the event of us cancelling will a refund be offered.

Are refreshments available?

The Keep Café will be open until the end of the interval for snacks and drinks. You are welcome to bring a picnic and alcohol. No BBQs permitted. Please drink responsibly and take home any litter.

Is there any seating?

No. Please bring your own low-backed seats. 

Do under 5s need a ticket?

No, under 5s are free and don't need a ticket.

Is the event outdoors? 

The event takes place outdoors on the main grassed area of the castle and will take place whatever the weather. Please note that large umbrellas and shelters are not allowed. 

Can I bring my dog?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome but please keep them on a lead.

Are there toilets available?

The toilets in the Visitor Centre will be open throughout the performance. There is also an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities.

Where can I park?

Please use town centre car parks which are mostly free after 6pm. We recommend that you don’t park in the Aldi carpark on South Baileygate, as charges may apply. Further parking info for Pontefract

Can I smoke during the event?

Smoking or vaping is not allowed in the grounds of Pontefract Castle. A smoking area will be available outside the main gates.

Can tickets be purchased on the night?

Tickets will be available online up to the time of the performance, subject to availability. They cannot be bought at the Castle itself.

Will the performers have microphones? 

The HandleBards perform 'as Shakespeare intended' (without amplification).

Please note all information is subject to change. 

*Do you offer carer tickets?

Yes. We offer a combined Disabled Person and Registered Carer ticket, priced at the value of 1 adult ticket and valid for 2 people. Proof of eligibility will need to be provided on arrival which could include: Carers Card, An Access Card, National Carers and Disability Card, recent Attendance Allowance Letter (AA), Carers’ Allowance Letter of Award, Disability Living Allowance Letter (DLA), or Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

Is the event wheelchair accessible? Will there be a designated access area?

Yes, this event is wheelchair accessible. The event will take place in the main grassed castle bailey area, which can be reached by level access paths. The paths are a mixture of gravel and stone. You can position yourself wherever you like, and bring additional seating to switch into if you wish. Our team will be on hand to show you the easiest route to a good spot.

You can also browse our full access information for Pontefract Castle.

Assistance dogs

Any well-behaved dogs are welcome at this event. Please keep them on a lead. This also includes assistance dogs.

I have a Blue Badge, where can I park? 

Roadside parking will be available for Blue Badge holders on many of the surrounding roads marked with double yellows. Please check The Blue Badge Scheme for rules on where parking is permitted.
There will be a limited number of spaces available in the castle car park however access to the castle is up an incline on a cobbled path.

Are there accessible toilets available? 

The Visitor Centre toilets will also remain open during the event. We have an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities.

You can find full access information for Pontefract Castle on our access page.

Pontefract has three train stations, all of which are near to Pontefract Castle. Please check the timetables before travelling.

• Pontefract Monkhill station is 0.3 miles away from Pontefract Castle. Please note there is no step-free access between the two platforms at Pontefract Monkhill, and they are connected by a footbridge with steps.

• Pontefract Tanshelf station is about 1 mile away from Pontefract Castle. There is step-free access between the platforms at Pontefract Tanshelf. These two stations are on the Leeds and Wakefield route.

• Pontefract Baghill station is 0.3 miles away from Pontefract Castle. There is step-free access between the platforms at Pontefract Baghill. This station is on the Sheffield and York route.

• Pontefract Castle is about 0.2 miles away from Pontefract Bus Station. There is a slight decline down towards the castle, and an incline back towards the bus station.

You can email us at castles@wakefield.gov.uk and we will get back to you during office hours. These are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

You can also ring the Visitor Centre on 01977 723440. The Visitor Centre is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. We can usually pick up the phone during opening hours. Please leave us a message with your contact number if we cannot pick up at the time.