Castle Bolton, above, was built in 1399 by Richard Le Scrope, and is situated in Wensleydale just on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The castle has never been sold and remains in the ownership of Lord Bolton the descendant of Richard Le Scrope.


Mary Queen of Scots, was held here when she fled to England from Scotland having been accused of killing her husband, Lord Darnley. She stayed at Castle Bolton for six months and was allowed freedom within the castle and supervision outside of it. She attempted to escape one day whilst out riding her horse, but was caught soon after on Leyburn Shawl.

It is said that Mary's ghost haunts this castle.


Wrong doers could find themselves in this cage and hoisted up for all to see above the cobbled courtyard. Not a great place to find yourself, particularly in bad weather!


Monks would pray in the chapel near to Mary Queen of Scots chambers.





:: Back :::: Home ::