Cliffe Castle

Free museums in Victorian mansions don't come along often, which makes this former textile baron's pile in Keighley rather special. Built in 1880 by Henry Butterfield, the castle's Gothic Revival towers and turrets house an eclectic collection that ranges from Egyptian mummies to stuffed birds.

Walking through the restored rooms feels like stepping into a well-to-do family's private collection. The natural history displays are particularly good - proper old-school museum cases filled with specimens that'll fascinate children for ages. There's also local archaeology, decorative arts, and a Victorian kitchen that gives a real sense of how the other half lived.

Families will get the most from a visit here. The building itself is half the attraction, with grand staircases and period rooms that bring Victorian Yorkshire to life. Kids seem to love the Egyptian section, though some of the displays show their age - which only adds to the authentic museum atmosphere.

Allow a couple of hours to see everything properly. The museum closes at 4pm most days, so don't leave it too late. It's well worth combining with a stay at nearby Bronte Country Park or one of the other holiday parks around Keighley - perfect for exploring the wider Yorkshire Dales and Bronte country without the usual admission fees eating into your budget.