Richard Holmes’ Dark History of Pontefract Castle

Please note: this event has been cancelled.

Dark deeds, grisly tales and gruesome ends… Pontefract Castle has seen it all!

Join our costumed guide (Chris Cade) as he takes on the role of local Victorian historian Richard Holmes. ‘Richard’ will lead you on a lantern-lit tour of the castle, illuminating its dark history.

Richard Holmes was the leading historian of Pontefract in the 1800s. Listen to his spooky stories from Pontefract's past.

Using Holmes’ original publications, Chris Cade has created an entertaining and educational tour of the castle.

Book your tickets now for a terrific night out – if you dare! Ticket price also includes a hot drink from The Keep Café.

Tour dates and times:

• Thursday 22 October, 7pm to 8pm 

• Thursday 22 October, 8:30pm to 9:30pm

• Friday 6 November, 7pm to 8pm 

• Friday 6 November, 8:30pm to 9:30pm

Access note:

This tour involves steps around the site and going into the dungeon. The dungeon can only be accessed by a series of steep historical steps.

If you cannot comfortably reach the dungeon, we can show you a video of the dungeon tour on a tablet while the rest of the group are below ground.

The tour is not suitable for under 5s.