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Helmsley Castle

Travel Information and nearby accommodation

A large and imposing 12th century castle overlooking the market town of Helmsley, on the southern edge of the North York Moors National Park. Helmsley Castle was built in 1120 by Walter Espec, who was also responsible for the founding of nearby Rievaulx Abbey and Kirkham Priory.

Espec's castle was rebuilt by Robert de Roos and his descendents, beginning in the 13th century. It is this second phase of building that we can see today in the impressive barbican gates and the unusual D-shaped east tower.

However, the grim early fortress was later remodelled into a comfortable residence by the Manners family during the 16th century. They converted the central block into a suite of rooms featuring ornate plasterwork and panelling, much of which is still in place.

In 1644 the castle was besieged by Parliamentary troops for three months until the garrison was forced to surrender. It then became the residence of the Duke of Buckingham and his wife, the daughter of Thomas Fairfax, the Parliamentary commander.

The Cleveland Way National Trail passes near the site, and leads to Rievaulx Abbey, about 4 miles away.
Helmsley, North York Noors, Yorkshire, England, YO62 5AB

About Helmsley Castle
Attraction Type: Castle
Location: Just off the market square in Helmsley. Paid and free parking available.
Website: Helmsley Castle
Phone: 01439 770442
English Heritage
Location map
OS SE612837

Heritage Highlight: Impressive late 13th century barbican gates. Also, former residence of the Duke of Buckingham.
Heritage Rating:   ?

Nearest attractions Nearest Towns and Villages Nearest accommodation Nearest Tourist Information Centre

OS map Related Information

Nearest Attractions Duncombe Park - 0.7 miles (Historic House) Rievaulx Terrace and Temples - 2.2 miles (Garden) Rievaulx Abbey - 2.4 miles (Abbey) Gilling Castle - 4.2 miles (Historic Property) Nunnington Hall - 4.5 miles (Historic Property) Byland Abbey - 5 miles (Abbey) Hovingham Hall - 6 miles (Historic House) North York Moors National Park - 9.7 miles (Countryside)

Nearest Towns and Villages Helmsley - 0.4 miles away Ampleforth - 3.9 miles away Kirkbymoorside - 5.4 miles away Hutton le Hole - 6.4 miles away Coxwold - 6.5 miles away Kilburn - 7 miles away Lastingham - 7.7 miles away Dalby - 7.8 miles away

Nearest Accommodation to Helmsley Castle

Nearest Self Catering Cottages

Bethesda - 5.8 miles from Helmsley Castle Kirkby Moorside, Yorkshire Sleeps: 4 Stay from: £230

Stable Cottage 1 - 5.9 miles from Helmsley Castle Kirkbymoorside, Yorkshire Sleeps: 2 Stay from: £295

Stable Cottage 2 - 5.9 miles from Helmsley Castle Kirkbymoorside, Yorkshire Sleeps: 2 Stay from: £275

More Self Catering near Helmsley Castle

Nearest Hotels

The Feathers Hotel - 0.1 miles from Helmsley Castle Helmsley, Yorkshire Stay from: £45.00

The Black Swan Hotel - 0.1 miles from Helmsley Castle Helmsley, Yorkshire Stay from: £100.00

Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa - 0.3 miles from Helmsley Castle Helmsley, Yorkshire Stay from: £99.00

More Hotels near Helmsley Castle

Nearest Bed and Breakfasts

The Crown Hotel Helmsley - 0.1 miles from Helmsley Castle Helmsley, Yorkshire From: £40.00

The Carlton Lodge - 0.2 miles from Helmsley Castle York, Yorkshire From: £60.00

Plumpton court - 2.5 miles from Helmsley Castle Nawton, Yorkshire From: £49.00

More bed and breakfasts near Helmsley Castle

Helmsley
Visitor Centre
Helmsley Castle
Castlegate
Helmsley
Yorkshire
England
YO62 5AB
Tel: 01439 770 173
Alternate Tel: 01439 771 116
Fax: 01439 771 116
Email: helmsleytic@btconnect.com
Seasonal opening
Map