Skipton is a great place to visit and one of the happiest places to live in the UK. As the magnificent Yorkshire Dales is on the town’s doorstep, visitors travel from all over the world to explore this beautiful market town. With its famous Castle and the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway, Skipton is rich in both heritage and amazing colours. Skipton is always topping the list of every visitor as one of the top places to plan for a day trip. Discover its breath-taking Yorkshire Dales, explore the surrounding countryside, enjoy the local fresh food, and more. Read on to see great things to do when you visit Skipton for a weekend break.

Let’s see why Skipton is a Great Place to Visit

#1 Take a visit to the fairytale Skipton Castle

Skipton Castle is almost the first noticeable thing you’ll see when in town. Recognized as one of the best-preserved castles in Britain, its structures are still impressively intact. Unlike other castles, Skipton Castle has its own different vibe and tourists significantly love it here. Originally built in 1090 by a Norman baron, a visit here lets you learn about the town’s history. Of course, you’ll also learn how that Clifford family is now in charge and the story behind the yew tree in the castle’s courtyard. Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, going for a self-guided tour at Skipton Castle makes you feel amazing!  

#2 Get yourself a bargain at Skipton Market and independent local shops

If you like shopping, you’ll enjoy your stay in Skipton. Apart from winning Britain’s Best Street of the Year, Skipton is great for its unique and independent shops. Its diversity offers locally made food, gifts, clothes, and much more. Experience a more charming shopping experience with the Craven Court – Skipton’s Victorian-themed shopping arcade. Home to 28 boutiques, it features national brands like Fat Face and Joules, as well as independent vendors selling jewellery, homewares, and more.  

#3 Food and Drink

Whether you want to fuel up before you head out or return from an outing, Skipton has a lot of places to eat and drink. So, enjoy the refreshment at the artisan coffee shops or settle down for some top-taste fish and chips. Select from the variety of award-winning Cafes, pubs, and restaurants all packed within a skip and a jump. Most of the locals serve fresh food grown within a distance of the town centre. Don’t forget the finest food at The Angel Inn. Another thing Skipton is famous for is its outdoor market. You can get almost anything of the tasty treats you desire, including fresh vegetables and old-fashioned sweets. If you want a more formal setting, then head over to the Michellin Starred Burlington Restaurant at the Devonshire Arms Country House Hotel.

#4 Take some pretty photographs along the canal

One of the things that makes Skipton a great place to visit is taking a stroll along the canal towpath. Don’t forget to put your photography skills to the test, especially when the brightly coloured boats are passing by. While you wander along the towpath, you’ll spot a variety of water birds towards Leeds or Liverpool.