Access to Skipton Castle Woods

Our accessibility statement outlines the available facilities and access information for Skipton Castle Woods.

Download the full access statement (PDF, 2MB) 

Before you arrive

Skipton Castle Woods is located behind Skipton Castle. Due to the woods valley location there is no step free access into Skipton Castle Woods however there are routes where the number of steps are limited.

At 36 acres, there are three entrances to the woodland linking to either public or permissive footpaths. Each of these entrances are located outside the castle grounds. Visitors to the castle should exit through the castle entrance to access the woods.

If you are visiting for the first time, we recommend you use the main Old Saw Mill entrance so that you can view our information boards and site map. Alternatively, you can access the woodland on The Bailey at the side of Skipton Castle car park. The third entrance on Short Lee Lane is most suited to those visiting the woodland as part of a longer walking route due to distance from the town centre and parking limitations.

Arrival and car park

Skipton Castle Woods is located in the heart of the town and although there are no dedicated Woodland Trust car parks on site, there are several other car parks located close by which means you can also enjoy spending time in the town centre.

Just be sure to check the car park closing times on our Facilities page or in the full access statement below.

Facilities

The nearest public toilets to Skipton Castle Woods are available at the High Street Car Park behind the Town Hall, including a RADAR key accessible toilet. A small charge applies.

Visitors to Skipton Castle have access to public toilets on site including disabled facilities (admission charge applies).

Footpaths and difficulty

All footpaths in the woodland are permissive and are in good condition.

The footpath from the main entrance at the Old Saw Mill extends for 1½ miles along the valley floor. The surface is mostly flat and is surfaced with crushed limestone and is firm underfoot.

As you enter the main gate there is a short moderate incline with a gradient of 5%. Towards the end of the Long Dam, there is a second short moderate incline on the footpath at a gradient of 8%.

In wet weather or in instances of high water levels, some areas near the Long Dam can become muddy so caution is advised.

Download the full access statement (PDF, 2MB)