Don’t skip us along – stop off and let us tell you how great Skipton is!

Okay, let’s skip to the facts here – Skipton is one of our most loved places to visit here at Great Scenic Journeys HQ. There’s just something so delightful about it, nestled in the heart of Yorkshire and served by the multi-award winning customer-obsessed Keighley Bus Company. Let’s lift the lid in a blaze of glory on this lovely, enchanted town, nestled in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. Sumptuous Skipton, offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural charm, with so much to see and do – we can’t get enough of it! Within the Great Scenic Journeys collection, the brilliant Blazefield 64 goes from Ilkley to Skipton and the 72 from glorious Grassington to Skipton –  also from the Keighley Bus Company! The view from the windows on these trips is worth a venture out itself, but, well, Skipton really is a fabulous place to devour!

Skipton stays sturdy

Begin your exploration at Skipton Castle, a perfectly preserved medieval fortress that dominates the town’s skyline. Dating back over 900 years, this formidable stronghold offers guided tours, allowing visitors to delve into its rich history and architectural marvels. The castle has never been breached by force. Despite numerous sieges during the English Civil War, the fortress remained impregnable. Remarkably, the castle’s sturdy construction and strategic positioning deterred invaders, earning it the moniker “Gateway to the Dales.” Skipton Castle’s resilience echoes through time, symbolizing the town’s resilience and fortitude. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, a testament to Skipton’s rich heritage and its ability to withstand the test of time.

Wander through the bustling Skipton Market, held four days a week in the town centre. Here, you can browse an array of stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and unique goods, soaking in the lively atmosphere and mingling with locals. After all this convivial stuff, it’s a good idea to have a leisurely stroll, heading to Skipton Woods, a tranquil woodland area just a stone’s throw from the town. Follow winding paths, cross charming bridges, and marvel at the beauty of nature as you explore this enchanting oasis of calm amidst the bustling Skipton.

A meal on water for all occasions!

There’s an industrial feel within Skipton but one which still has that touch of beauty and it’s at Skipton Canal Basin which provides another scenic spot to unwind, with its picturesque canal boats, waterside cafes, and charming towpath walks. Take a leisurely boat trip along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the waterway. There’s 1 hour cruises which give a good glimpse of the view from the canal, as well as cruises to suit your culinary delights and time of day – afternoon tea, roast dinners, fish and chips, ploughman’s lunch, ‘drinks ahoy’ –  okay, so you get our drift now? To find out more about these fab trips, go to Canal Cruises on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal (canaltrips.co.uk)

Churchyard, cows and concerts

History buffs will delight in a visit to Holy Trinity Church, a magnificent parish church dating back to the 15th century. Admire its impressive architecture, stained glass windows, and intricate stone carvings, then take a moment to explore the surrounding churchyard. Henry and George Clifford, the 1st and 3rd Earls of Cumberland are also buried here!

For a taste of local culture, check out Skipton Town Hall which has a fab range of shows and performing acts, ranging from the Black Dyke Band to Animals and Friends and Velma Celli’s God Save the Queen! Skipton Little Theatre in Clifford Street also has some great delights to, including Keith James, The Songs of Leonard Cohen in concert on 18th May.

To find out what’s going on in and around Skipton, then check out Music – Welcome to Skipton

Mum’s the word with this hidden gem that will have you craving for more

In the heart of Skipton lies a hidden gem: the Craven Museum & Gallery, tucked away within the Skipton Town Hall. Among its treasures is a curious artifact known as the Skipton Mummy. This ancient Egyptian mummy, named ‘Takabuti,’ found its way to Skipton in the early 19th century. Originally from Thebes, Takabuti’s mummified remains were unwrapped in 1835 by Dr. Thomas Pettigrew, revealing insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices. Today, Takabuti rests peacefully in the museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the distant past and highlighting Skipton’s unexpected connection to the ancient world.

Bygone brilliance to Bolton Abbey

A pleasant 1.7 mile skip to the north of Skipton to Embsay is highly recommended and a trip on the The Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway which offers a nostalgic 20-minute journey through the stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside aboard beautifully restored vintage steam trains. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the romance of steam travel and experience the charm of a bygone era. As the train chugs along the scenic route, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of rolling hills, meandering rivers, and lush greenery. The journey takes scenic thrill seekers from Embsay Station, where the historic locomotives puff to life, to the picturesque Bolton Abbey Station, nestled alongside the ruins of a 12th-century priory.

At Bolton Abbey Station, visitors can explore the surrounding woodland trails, picnic by the river, or visit the nearby ruins of Bolton Priory, steeped in centuries of history and surrounded by idyllic countryside. Additionally, the station boasts a charming tea room, perfect for indulging in refreshments while soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the Dales.

Skip Inn the pub or taste some terrific tearoom treats before the journey home!

Complete your day with a visit to one of Skipton’s charming tearooms or traditional pubs, where you can indulge in delicious local fare and perhaps sample a pint of Yorkshire ale. Our favourites pubs include, The Woolly Sheep Inn, nestled in a historic building with exposed beams and a cozy atmosphere, offers a wide selection of local ales and hearty pub fare. The Narrow Boat Inn, located alongside the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, provides a picturesque setting for enjoying a pint while watching the boats pass by. For those seeking a taste of tradition, The Royal Shepherd Inn, with its traditional stone exterior and welcoming interior, serves up classic pub dishes and a well-curated selection of beers.

Situated in the heart of Skipton’s bustling high street, The Cake’ole is renowned for its mouthwatering array of freshly baked cakes, scones, and indulgent afternoon teas. The vintage-inspired decor adds to the charm, creating a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of yesteryears. Tucked away in a historic building, The Cottage Tea Rooms exude rustic charm and tranquility. Guests can savor traditional cream teas served with homemade jams and clotted cream, all while soaking in the cozy atmosphere of this hidden gem.

With its wealth of attractions and scenic surroundings, Skipton promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, soaking in its natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, or simply enjoying the laid-back ambiance, this charming market town never fails to enchant. To plan your scenic bus adventure to Super Skipton, skip along to the Great Scenic Journeys website and check out these two links…

64, Ilkley to Skipton – Great Scenic Journeys

72 Skipton – Grassington – Great Scenic Journeys