Skipton Castle

The castle dominates Skipton's high street like it owns the place - which, honestly, it practically does. Built in 1090 by the Normans, this fortress has survived centuries of wars, sieges and the English Civil War with its thick stone walls largely intact. You can walk right through the main gatehouse, explore the courtyards where sheep once grazed during the Roundhead occupation, and climb onto the ramparts for proper views across Airedale towards the Yorkshire Dales.

It's genuinely worth an afternoon. The keep is the real draw - narrow spiral staircases and low doorways take you up through the layers of medieval life. The banqueting hall is vast and empty, which somehow makes it more atmospheric than if it were furnished. Kids generally engage better here than at some heritage sites because there's climbing involved and the stone tunnels feel like an actual adventure, not a museum walkthrough.

Allow two to three hours if you're thorough. The admission charge is reasonable. From any of the nearby campsites - Draughton Heights is closest at under three miles - it's a straightforward drive into Skipton town centre. The High Street itself is worth a wander afterwards, lined with proper shops rather than chains. If you're basing yourself at one of the Dales sites like Bolton Abbey Estate or Coxons Farm, the castle makes sense as a half-day detour before heading back out to the walking routes. Spring and early autumn are best - summer gets crowded with school groups.