Step Back in Time at Bolton Castle: Exciting Events and Family Fun This Easter

Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Bolton Castle is one of the UK’s best-preserved medieval castles, offering an unforgettable day out for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Just a ten-minute drive from Leyburn, the castle’s rich history is brought to life through its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an exciting range of activities. Visitors can explore five floors of the castle, including the dungeon, enjoy daily falconry displays, try their hand at archery, navigate the maze, and even feed the resident wild boar. This Easter, Bolton Castle’s action-packed programme promises something for everyone.

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Lord Scrope’s Living History Weekend
Saturday 5 April & Sunday 6 April

Step back to 1461, a time of political intrigue and bloody battles during the Wars of the Roses. Join Lord Scrope’s household as they prepare to crush the last Lancastrian strongholds at Alnwick and Bamburgh. Explore the bustling medieval kitchen responsible for feeding the castle’s garrison, discover the work of skilled tradespeople who kept the fortress running, and learn the art of survival as a common soldier during this turbulent period.

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Easter Adventures at Bolton Castle
Tuesday 8 April to Monday 21 April

Easter at Bolton Castle is packed with fun and discovery. Young adventurers can take part in a find-and-seek trail to learn fascinating facts about Easter traditions. Successful trailblazers will be rewarded with a chocolate treat and a piece of Maundy money as a keepsake.

Alfraeda the Dragon is also back at her favourite castle, but she’s in trouble — she’s lost her precious egg! Little explorers are invited to help Alfraeda track down her missing egg and save the day.

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Living History: Towton 1461 Weekend
Easter Weekend: Friday 18 April – Monday 21 April

Experience the chaos and intensity of the largest and bloodiest battle ever fought on English soil — the Battle of Towton, which raged on Palm Sunday, 29 March 1461. Among the warriors was Lord John Scrope of Bolton Castle, leading a contingent of men-at-arms and archers from Wensleydale. Throughout Easter weekend, Living Historians will be in residence at the castle, sharing insights into the battle’s significance during the Wars of the Roses and its lasting impact on England’s monarchy. Visitors can try on authentic medieval armour, learn about the weapons of the time, and even test their skills with have-a-go archery. Do you have what it takes to be a medieval soldier?

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