English Heritage

Pickering Castle stands in a pretty setting on the fringe of a historic market town. It’s a perfect example of how early earth-and-timber castles were rebuilt in stone. At its core is a high and steep-sided Norman ‘motte’ mound surrounded by a ditch. It was later crowned by a stone shell keep. You can climb the motte stairway for panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

During the 13th and 14th centuries, Pickering Castle’s wooden outer defences were replaced by stone curtain walls. You can explore three of their imposing towers, which stand almost to full height: the Mill Tower once housed a prison.

Discover more about the castle’s story in the chapel exhibition featuring brand new exhibits including medieval arrow heads, a knife blade, spurs and manacles. While visiting, look out for Pickering Castle’s abundant wildlife – kestrels sometimes nest here and there are over 45 species of wildflower on site.