Proms at the Castle

What time does the event start? 

The gates will open at 5:30pm. The concert will begin at 7:30pm. The event ends at around 10pm.

Are there early entry tickets available?

Yes, there are a limited number of early entry tickets available for an extra £2. If you have an early entry ticket you can enter the site from 4:30pm.

Is there an interval? 

Yes, there will be a 20 minute interval around 8:30pm.

Will the performance still go ahead if it is raining? 

Yes. In the case of adverse weather, the event will not be cancelled and will go ahead as planned. If the adverse weather causes any health and safety concerns the Events Team may have to cancel the event. 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? 

Yes, there will be on site catering units and a bar. The castle's Keep Café and Gift Shop will also be open during the event.

Can I bring my own food and drink? 

Yes. Please use the waste and recycling bins provided or take your rubbish home with you. No open flames or BBQs are allowed.

Is there any seating? 

No, please bring your own low back chairs or picnic blankets. If you have purchased a VIP ticket you will be provided with 1 standard size picnic bench for 4 people.

Do under 5s need a ticket? 

No, under 5s are free and do not require 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. Large umbrellas (fishing / parasol) or tents are not permitted due to safety and visibility issues. Please bring ponchos, raincoats or regular / golf umbrellas if the weather is wet.

Can I bring my dog? 

No, Assistance dogs only due to the large numbers of people expected. Assistance dogs must be on a lead at all times. Please be aware that there will be a pyro finale this year [you will have the option to leave prior to this starting].

Are there toilets available? 

Yes, there will be portable toilets on the bailey including an accessible portaloo. The Visitor Centre toilets will also remain open during the event.

Where can I park? 

We recommend that you use the Pontefract town centre car parks.

Can I smoke / vape 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 (subject to availability) until 3 hours before the event. Online tickets must be purchased on our official TicketSource.

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. The main Pontefract Castle site is accessible by wheelchair. There is a hardstanding path that runs around the main grassed event area (the bailey) however some areas on the bailey are uneven. A space close to the performance area will be marked out as an accessible area. There will be an option to let us know when you book online if you need use of this space. You can also browse our full access information for Pontefract Castle.

Assistance dogs

Only Assistance dogs are permitted due to the large numbers of people expected. Assistance dogs must be on a lead at all times. Please be aware that there will be a pyro finale this year [you will have the option to leave prior to this starting].

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? 

Yes, there will be portable toilets on the bailey including an accessible portaloo. The Visitor Centre toilets will also remain open during the event.

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 festivals@wakefield.gov.uk and we will get back to you during office hours. These are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.