Things to see and do at Richmond Castle
Below you’ll find information about the different things you can see and do at Richmond Castle, including the fascinating exhibition, and the best spots for a picnic and a play in the grounds.
Visit the exhibition
Don't miss our permanent exhibition at Richmond Castle, telling the story of its people, history, and living heritage.
In the museum space, you can find out about the castle's history, from the 11th-century Norman conquest to its occupation by the northern Non-Combatant Corps during the First World War.
Visit and learn about the story of the conscientious objectors, many of them Dales Quakers, who refused to fight in the First World War. The exhibition displays various artefacts and a mock-up a contentious objector’s cell.
There’s also an interactive area for children, sharing the stories of some of the castle's most famous and lesser-known characters.
Explore the garden
In 2000, landscape architect Neil Swanson to design a contemporary heritage garden for Richmond Castle.
The garden, known as the 'cockpit', is outside the castle walls and you approach it through a thick stone wall to airy views beyond. The main part of the cockpit garden is a grassy amphitheatre where people can meet, lay on the grass, have parties, picnics and enjoy the surroundings and it echoes the turfed area within the castle.
Richmond Castle offers kids plenty of space to run around, play and explore; ball games and kites are allowed.
Folktale Creature Trails
Looking for an adventure with your little ones? You'll love our folktale inspired trails, where children can discover magical creatures from English myths and legends.
Each of our three trails has six unique creatures to meet and two captivating audio stories to enjoy when you get home. Complete a trail to earn a special certificate marking your achievement.
The trails are completely free to take part in, and will rotate to different locations throughout the year. Find out the sites taking part.