Discover the Majestic Helmsley Castle: A Glimpse Into England's Rich Heritage
Uncover the history and beauty of Helmsley Castle, a majestic medieval fortress and heritage site in North Yorkshire, England.
Nestled in the picturesque market town of Helmsley, Helmsley Castle stands as a remarkable testament to England's storied past. This historic castle, dating back to the 12th century, invites tourists to explore its ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and scenic gardens. A visit here offers a unique opportunity to connect with history while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
A brief summary to Helmsley Castle
- Castlegate, Helmsley, Helmsley, YO62 5AB, GB
- +441439770442
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience exploring the castle.
- Check the schedule for special events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the castle's walls.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven terrain within the castle grounds.
- Consider visiting nearby attractions in Helmsley for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Helmsley Castle, start by getting onto the A1(M) motorway. Depending on your starting point in Yorkshire, you might take the A61, A19, or A64 to reach the A1(M). From the A1(M), take the exit for the A168 towards Thirsk. Continue on the A168 until you reach the A170 at Thirsk. Follow signs for Helmsley on the A170. As you approach Helmsley, look out for signs directing you to Castlegate, where Helmsley Castle is located. There are parking options available in Helmsley, but be aware that some may charge a fee, typically around £1-£3 for a few hours.
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Public Transportation - Train
To reach Helmsley Castle by train, first take a train from your nearest station to York or Thirsk. From York, you can catch a train heading towards Thirsk. Upon arriving at Thirsk station, you will need to take a local bus or taxi to Helmsley. The bus service (number 31) runs regularly from Thirsk to Helmsley and takes about 30 minutes. The bus fare is approximately £3-£5. Once in Helmsley, follow signs to Castlegate to find Helmsley Castle.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If you prefer to use a bus service directly, check for buses from major Yorkshire cities like York or Scarborough to Helmsley. The bus service (number 31 from York) is a convenient option, and the journey takes around 1 hour. The fare is generally around £5-£7. Make sure to check the timetable for the return journey so you can plan accordingly. Once you arrive in Helmsley, follow the signs to Castlegate, where Helmsley Castle is located.
Discover more about Helmsley Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Skelton Tower
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Historic Skelton Tower stands as a romantic ruin with sweeping views over Newtondale and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
REMAINS OF FORMER KIRBY HALL
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Medieval Walls
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Bootham Bar
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Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
31.4 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
31.4 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Sundial Column
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An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
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Anglian Tower
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Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Bedern Hall
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Experience the enchanting Bedern Hall in York, a perfect venue that beautifully blends history and elegance for unforgettable weddings and events.
Yorkshire Museum
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The Norman House
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Museum Gardens
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Multangular Tower
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Unmissable attractions to see
Helmsley
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Historic market town at the edge of North York Moors, blending medieval heritage with stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Rievaulx Abbey
3.7 km
Explore the tranquil and majestic ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery set in the stunning North York Moors National Park.
National Trust - Nunnington Hall
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Byland Abbey
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The Black Swan at Oldstead
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Kilburn White Horse
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Hutton-le-Hole
11.4 km
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Rosedale Abbey
16.9 km
Historic Yorkshire village with medieval monastic roots, scenic moorland walks, and a rich mining heritage in the heart of the North York Moors.
Castle Howard
17.1 km
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18.3 km
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North Yorkshire Moors Railway
18.6 km
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North York Moors National Park
18.7 km
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Sutton Park
19.2 km
Historic Sutton Park in York offers a welcoming events venue blending rich heritage with scenic charm and community spirit.
Medieval Village of East Lilling
19.7 km
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Kirkham Priory
21.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Pignut Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience innovative, locally inspired fine dining in the heart of Helmsley at Pignut Restaurant.
The Star Inn
3.8 km
Michelin-starred gastropub in historic Harome, blending rustic charm, exceptional Yorkshire cuisine, and warm hospitality in the scenic Howardian Hills.
The Hare Restaurant
6.2 km
An intimate North Yorkshire gem offering exquisite tasting menus that celebrate local flavors with modern finesse and warm hospitality.
Restaurant Mýse
9.8 km
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Dewars Restaurant And Rooms
17.3 km
Boutique luxury and exceptional dining in a tranquil North Yorkshire village retreat with heated pool and sauna.
The Stone Trough Inn
21.9 km
Historic Yorkshire inn with rustic charm, local cuisine, and stunning views overlooking Kirkham Abbey’s scenic countryside.
Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
23.0 km
Eclectic seafood dining and uniquely themed rooms combine for a memorable stay in tranquil North Yorkshire countryside.
Huckleberrys American Diner
23.5 km
Classic American diner fare with a friendly vibe, hearty burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of York.
The Fox & Rabbit Inn
23.8 km
A cosy, dog-friendly country pub in Pickering serving hearty British fare with vegetarian options, set amidst North Yorkshire’s scenic beauty.
Little Italy
31.4 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
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31.4 km
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Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
31.5 km
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Guy Fawkes Inn
31.5 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Roots York
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Fat Hippo York
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Duncombe Park Shop
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Unique Gifts
18.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local gifts in the heart of Thirsk’s historic Market Place.
Kemps General Store Ltd
21.1 km
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The Yorkshire Store
26.4 km
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The Village Store And Gift Centre
28.3 km
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Uniquely Local Experiences
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Old York
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Fairer World
31.1 km
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Snowhome
31.2 km
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Monk Bar Model Shop
31.4 km
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Village Shop
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Cleggs
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National Trust Gift Shop
31.4 km
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York Minster Shop
31.5 km
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The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
31.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eagle & Child
31.4 km
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Royal Oak
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Ye Olde Starre Inne
31.5 km
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Evil Eye
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The Punch Bowl
31.6 km
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Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
31.6 km
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The Black Swan
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Vudu Lounge
31.7 km
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Victor J's
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Lendal Cellars
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Pivní York
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Dusk
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
31.7 km
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Flares - York
31.8 km
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Club Salvation
31.9 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
32.0 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
32.0 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
32.0 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Kuda
32.0 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
32.2 km
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Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
38.7 km
Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
38.7 km
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Videotheque Disco's
39.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Videotheque Disco's in Whitby, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable memories.
The Queen's Head, Finghall
43.2 km
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Louis Bar
44.5 km
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46.2 km
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The Cavern Music Bar
47.2 km
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