Bolton Castle
A family home built within the walls of a defensive fortress, partially 'slighted' by Cromwell's men during a Civil War siege.
Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4ET
Facilities
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Charged parking
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Facilities for children
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Garden only
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Parkland / open spaces
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Picnic area
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Shop
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
One of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Bolton Castle near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, announces a forthcoming major new historical exhibition from 6th March to 5th September 2027. Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens in March next year and is the first time the exhibition will be seen at a location where Mary Stuart was held. Exploring the life, legacy and enduring fascination of Mary Queen of Scots, this captivating exhibition offers visitors a journey through the dramatic life of one of history’s most iconic and controversial monarchs, tracing her story from her birth in 1542 to her execution in 1587. The exhibition combines original historical artefacts, immersive displays and striking visual design to bring her story vividly to life.
As well as this the castle offers 5 floors to explore including a dungeon and courtyard where you can have a go at our daily archery. There are also two different falconry displays and the wild boar feed. The stunning gardens include a maze for both young and young at heart to enjoy as well as different areas dedicated to plant themes such as the medicinal herb garden and the rose garden.
The tea room offers tasty savoury and sweet treats to keep you all energised throughout the day. A delicious Afternoon Tea is also available by pre booking.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
2026
7th May to 31st October 2026
2027
Saturday 6th March to Sunday 31st October
Closed for weddings on the following dates:
Saturday 12th June
Friday 17th September
Friday 24th September
Historic Houses members visit for free.
Castle, Gardens and Grounds
(includes Boar Park, Falconry flying display, birds on weather, bee observation hive children’s trail, local rare breed sheep including Wensleydales)
Adults: £16.50
Gardens only
Adults: £5.00
Concessions: £4.00
Family ticket: £20.00
Award winning Bolton Castle is one of the country’s best preserved medieval castles with five floors of castle, beautiful and unique gardens including a maze and ‘garden rooms’, and gorgeous views across Wensleydale. Located near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, the castle is family owned with an acclaimed Tea Room offering home-made dishes and cakes made on site often using ingredients from the Bolton Estate.
The team at the Castle have announced a new opportunity for group visitors booking now for 2027. Mary Queen of Scots stayed at Bolton Castle before she met her untimely end and the castle will be hosting the Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opening 6th March to 5th September 2027.
This is the first time the exhibition will be seen at a location where Mary Stuart was held and this captivating exhibition offers visitors a journey through the dramatic life of one of history’s most iconic and controversial monarchs, tracing her story from her birth in 1542 to her execution in 1587 with original historical artefacts, immersive displays and striking visual design to bring her story vividly to life.
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
Getting here
Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4ET
Off the A684 from Leyburn and Redmire.
Forthcoming events
Remember, special events are excluded from free entry for members
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