Barlick Castle

The ruins of Barlick Castle sit on a ridge above Skipton, commanding views across the Ribble Valley - though calling it a castle might be generous. What remains is mostly earthwork and scattered stonework from a Norman fortification that's seen better days, frankly. You're looking at foundations and the vaguest outline of what once stood here, probably built in the 11th century as a motte-and-bailey stronghold.

It's a walker's destination rather than a standalone attraction. The walk up from Skipton takes forty minutes or so and the views alone make it worthwhile - on a clear day you can see for miles. History buffs will appreciate the strategic position and the chance to poke around genuine medieval remains, but if you're expecting castle turrets or furnished rooms, keep walking.

Free to visit and unenclosed, which means you can rock up whenever suits you. Allow an hour including the walk and time to soak in the landscape. It works brilliantly as a half-day outing combined with Skipton town itself - grab lunch there, tackle the walk, and you've got a solid afternoon sorted.

Stay at one of the local farms - Shay Gate or Deerstone are within spitting distance - and you can build this into a wider Ribble Valley ramble. The area's proper walking country, and Barlick fits neatly into a broader exploration rather than as your main event. Families with older kids who can manage the climb will get something out of it. Younger children might find it underwhelming.