$Three performers smiling and seated on a stone seat built into the wall at Pontefract Castle$

Yorkshire Day at Pontefract Castle

Sat 1 August 2026, 10am - 4pm

Pontefract Castle

Celebrate Yorkshire Day with us at Pontefract Castle!

Here's what special events are running on Saturday 1 August to celebrate all things Yorkshire:

The Key to the North, a Pontefract Tale

Join We Great Ladies and minstrel Ben Bickley for a dramatic journey through the history of Pontefract Castle to celebrate Yorkshire Day.

Meet historic characters including Alice de Lacy, John of Gaunt and Thomas of Lancaster. Hear about their incredible lives and connections to Pontefract Castle told through story and song.

Performances at 12pm and 3:30pm. Suitable for all ages. Free, no booking required.

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of Our Heritage, Our Stories.

Bonus Dungeon and Explorer Tours

Ever wanted to explore the Pontefract Castle dungeons, or find out more about our spectacular site? Yorkshire Day is packed full of bonus tours, so make Saturday 1 August the day!

Dungeon Tour times (Saturday 1 August): 11:15am, 12pm, 12:45pm and 1:30pm

Explorer Tour times (Saturday 1 August): 10am and 2:15pm

Pre-book tours online to secure your place. A limited number of tickets will be available to buy on the day from the Gift Shop.

1 August 2026

10am - 4pm

Pontefract Castle

Free entry, booking required for tours

All ages

(Dungeon Tours aged 6+ only)

Plan your visit

'The Key to the North, a Pontefract Tale' performances are part of Our Heritage Our Stories. This is a heritage project funded by Wakefield Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. With thanks to National Lottery Players.