Helmsley Castle

Schools

From a mighty medieval Norman fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, a Civil War stronghold and eventually a romantic Victorian ruin. Discover how life in a castle has changed over time at this impressive North Yorkshire Castle, which has seen over 900 years of English history. 

Many schools combine their visit with a trip to nearby Rievaulx Abbey: find out more here.

Please note: Due to essential conservation management at this property, the top floor of the Manor House will be closed until further notice.  The handling collection will also be unavailable during this time.

Curriculum Links

  • KS1-3 History: A local history study
  • KS1 History: Significant historical events, people and places; study of castles
  • KS2 History: A study of an aspect or theme in British history that extends the pupils' chronological knowledge beyond 1066
  • KS3 History: Development of Church, state and society in Britain 1066-1509 and 1509-1750
  • GCSE History: Study of the historic environment

Free Self-led Visits

Book a free self-led visit to discover 900 years of history at Helmsley Castle. By booking a free education visit you can lead your day in your own way. Explore the castle ruins and learn more about the site in the hands-on interactive exhibition in the mansion house. We also have plenty of online resources to help you plan your day at Helmsley Castle, and support learning before, during and after your visit.

Enquire now

PLAN YOUR VISIT

We have a wide range of materials to support your visit and make school trip planning easy. You can find all our site-specific information and tools below, and for Covid-19 risk assessments and measures we’ve got in place please visit our what to expect page.

Download our free resources to help you make the most out of your visit and create unique learning experiences before, during and after your trip. We also offer free planning visits for group leaders once you have made a booking. Visit our bookings page to start planning your trip!

  • Facilities
    • PARKING: Large pay and display car park (not managed by English Heritage) 20 metres from entrance. Meters accept coins and cards.
    • TOILETS: Male, female and accessible toilets are available.
    • SHOP: Visitor Centre sells an extensive range of English Heritage gifts and themed souvenirs, including castle themed gifts, maps, books and Yorkshire clothing.
    • LUNCH: You are welcome to bring a picnic to eat in the grounds. There are picnic tables and benches around the site.
    • EXHIBITION: Imaginative hands-on exhibition in the ground floor of the Tudor mansion range. Displaying a fascinating array of finds from Civil War cannon balls to early tableware, this exhibition explores the social and domestic, as well as the military, aspects of the fortress.
    • FACE MASKS: Face coverings must be worn in all indoor public spaces, including in our exhibitions, shops, cafés and tea rooms. We won’t be able to give you a face covering, so please come prepared so you don’t miss out. U11s are exempt.
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