One of the country’s best-preserved medieval castles, Bolton Castle in North Yorkshire, opens up its doors and gardens for the new season on Saturday 2 March 2024.
The castle has remained in the same family’s ownership for over 600 years. Bolton Castle offers an extensive programme of events which bring the story of the castle alive including its acclaimed re-enactor days, storytelling, trails, and open-air theatre.
Upcoming events at Boston Castle
Living History Tudor Weekend
Saturday 2 March & Sunday 3 March, 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Bolton Castle begins its season with the Tudor Weekend, offering a glimpse into life from 1485 to 1603, a pivotal era in English history. Meet ‘Living Historians’ dressed in period attire and learn about the lives of the Tudors, from the reign of King Henry VII to Elizabeth I.
Living History Medieval Weekend
Friday 29 March, Saturday 30 March & Sunday 31 March 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Step into 1461 during the Wars of the Roses and hear from ‘Living Historians’ about the significant Battle of Towton. Try on arms and armour and practice archery to understand the life of a Medieval soldier.
Easter Fun
Saturday 23 March to Friday 5 April 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Celebrate Easter at Bolton Castle with a fun trail that educates and delights with chocolate rewards. Help Alfraeda the dragon find her lost egg and snap a photo for a chance to win a chocolate gift.
Wedding Fair
Sunday 7 April with The UK Wedding Event 11am to 2pm Pre-book free tickets to attend the Fair
Explore Bolton Castle’s Wedding Fair to meet vendors and envision your dream wedding. Pre-booking is available through the provided link.
Living History Tudor Weekend Bank Holiday
Saturday 4 May, Sunday 5 May & Monday 6 May 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Revisit the Tudor Weekend this Bank Holiday to learn about life during the Tudor period, with ‘Living Historians’ showcasing the era’s significant changes.
Lord Scrope’s Medieval Weekend
Saturday 18 May & Sunday 19 May 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Experience the aftermath of the battle of Towton with Lord Scrope’s household. Discover Medieval life, from kitchen duties to the tradespeople’s crafts and soldier training during the Wars of the Roses.
Living History Civil War Weekend
Saturday 26 May & Sunday 27 May 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Delve into the English Civil War and Bolton Castle’s role in it. Handle period arms and armour and discover how the war affected loyalties and the nation’s history.
Captain Savile’s Weekend
Saturday 15 June & Sunday 16 June 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Join Sir John Savile’s entourage at Bolton Castle for archery and combat demonstrations, providing a lively family day exploring the castle’s daily life during a high-profile visit.
Lord Scrope’s History Weekend
Saturday 22 June & Sunday 23 June 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Immerse yourself in 1596 amidst the Border Reivers’ raids. Visit Lord Scrope’s Tudor household as they prepare for retaliation, learn about life on the Anglo-Scottish border, and soldier survival strategies.
Living History Civil War Weekend
Saturday 29 June & Sunday 30 June 10am to 5pm Free with Entry
Revisit the castle’s Civil War history, interact with ‘Living Historians’, and explore the weaponry and armour from the time when Britain was a Republic, post-Charles I.
Pricing
Tickets cost £15 per adult, £12.50 per child (children are 5 to 18 years old, children aged 4 and under are free) and £60 family for castle and gardens. Concessions available for 67 year-olds and over. Tickets to the gardens only are £6 per adult and concessions £5 per person, family £25. Car parking is £5 per vehicle.
Image Source:
- Bolton Castle, Near Hawes, North Yorkshire, UK: Charlotte Graham Photography
