Castles and Houses around Harrogate
February 21, 2025Yorkshire has a number of beautiful houses and fantastic castles worth visiting. Here is a list of places close to Harrogate which we would recommend to our guests.
Beningbrough
This stunning country house just outside of York, is home to the Reddihough Galleries which host modern and traditional art exhibitions. The garden has been redesigned by award winning gardener Andy Sturgeon making it a must for all art lovers and gardeners.
Post Code: YO30 1DD
Parking: Onsite
Dogs: Yes- in the garden and parkland, must be on a short lead.
East Riddlesden Hall
East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th Century Manor House in West Yorkshire. The hall has a fabulous garden and children love playing in the Discovery Garden, a natural play area. There is also a tea room and shop where you can purchase local produce for a truly authentic Yorkshire experience.
Post Code: BD20 5EL
Parking: 250 yards- overflow parking on field
Dogs: Yes- On lower field and ground floor of shop/tea room and garden. (assisted dogs ONLY are allowed in the house)
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
Situated in a wide valley lies the ruins of Fountains Abbey, originally part of a cistercian order of monks who founded the abbey back in 1132. Destroyed during the desolation of the monasteries, the site is an awesome reminder of this sad part of British history. The Studley Royal are beautiful Georgian Gardens, forming part of the Studley Estate. Visitors love exploring the grounds and walking around the lake. There are also serval tea rooms and cafes.
Post Code: HG4 3DY
Parking: On site at Fountains Abbey visitor Centre and Studley Lakeside.
Dogs: Yes- Are allowed in most areas on a lead, including dog-friendly eating area in the main cafe.
Nostell
Nostell is an impressive piece of Georgian Architecture. Commissioned by the generations of the Winn family to be a showcase for fashionable design. Hosting exquisite furniture, textiles and Chippendale wall paper, this truly is an interior designers "dream house". Nostell's grounds are home to wildlife including swans, kingfishers and bats and comprises 300 acres of parkland, meadows, lakes and a working kitchen garden and Menagerie.
Post Code: WF4 1QE
Parking: 650 yards
Dogs: Yes.
Nunnington Hall
A beautiful house and garden on the River Rye. Picnics are welcome in the wildlife meadows and orchards. The house hosts the Carlisle Collection of miniature rooms, which are renowned for the craftsmanship.
Post Code: YO62 5UY
Parking: On site
Dogs: Welcome in the garden and tea rooms- on a lead.
Bolton Castle
This is one of our personal favourites. Stunning views, with great walks and some truly magnificent waterfalls nearby. What is not to love? There is also a falconry display. Bolton Castle is also a popular wedding venue which means it will sometimes be shut. We recommend checking their website before your visit for opening hours and days.
Post Code: DL8 4ET
Parking: There is a car park.
Dogs: No. Dogs are not allowed in the castle or garden.
Website: https://boltoncastle.co.uk
Skipton Castle
One of the best preserved medieval castles in England. This is a must see for anyone who enjoys exploring castles and is into medieval British history. There is a lovely tea room and the staff will make you very welcome.
Post Code: BD23 1AA
Parking: Bailey Car Park, 3 High St, Skipton BD23 1AA
Dogs: Yes- Permitted in castle and ground but must be kept on a lead.
Website: https://www.skiptoncastle.co.uk, https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/places/skipton_castle/
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey is situated in a beautiful valley. The ruins of the abbey are quite small, but there are number of trails and walks for you to enjoy.
Post Code: BD23 6EX
Parking: There are four car parks. More information can be found on the parking page on their website.
Dogs: Yes, must be on a lead in certain areas.
Website: https://boltonabbey.com/your-visit/walks-and-trails/
Planning a stay in North Yorkshire? Need somewhere to stay? Make Harrogate your Yorkshire base and book your stay in one of our five fabulous cottages! See our website for details and book your stay today!
