Beautiful Bolton Castle, Leyburn

With a schedule of fabulous family events and wedding  opportunities, we have been asked to raise the profile of glorious Bolton Castle, near Leyburn.  Uniquely owned by the same family for 600 years, the castle is nestled in a fairytale setting in Wensleydale, opening daily from the end of March with a series of re-enactor events, craft demonstrations and falconry displays throughout the summer, and not forgetting their beautiful gardens and extensive views across the valley.  

Commanding outstanding views across the Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Castle in Wensleydale boasts one of the most romantic settings in Yorkshire.  Built as a luxurious home by Sir Richard Le Scrope 600 years ago, Bolton Castle is one of the best preserved Medieval castles in the country and uniquely remains under the private ownership of Lord Bolton, a direct descendant of Sir Richard.  

The Castle provides a fascinating insight into life within its walls and gardens, with a range of opportunities to see, enjoy and learn how life – warts and all - really was at the castle across the centuries.   The castle also holds a unique position in history as the host of Mary, Queen of Scots, purportedly held here in captivity for the longest time, and who enjoyed some luxury which the Scottish Queen will not have experienced at her previous residence, Carlisle Castle.  Bolton Castle’s The Solar, the family’s well-appointed suite of rooms, held her and her many servants until her escape with the help of her supporters.  Local history reveals that she was eventually recaptured nearby on a hill which today bears the name Shawl Hill, after her shawl was reportedly found revealing her whereabouts.