The historic town of Skipton is, officially, The Gateway to the Dales. It’s one of the most picturesque places in Yorkshire, with historic canals and waterways flowing through the town. Here in God’s Own Country it goes without saying that the surrounding scenery is absolutely stunning. Whether your here for hiking, historic buildings, or Billy Bob’s ice cream parlour, our Skipton hotel is on the doorstep of the Yorkshire Dales, perfect for exploring the historic town, sampling its excellent food scene, and taking in top days out.
Things to do in Skipton
Nightlife
Tick off some of our top bars and pubs with the help of our local guide. You can enjoy canalside cocktails, cram into the town’s original and best micropub for a perfectly pulled pint, or join us on a junipery trip around the world by visiting the gin palace with 250 different bottles of the good stuff.
Shopping
If you want to do some shopping in Skipton, on the High Street, Craven Court is a beautiful Victorian-style arcade with independent boutiques, wrought iron railings and an intricate glass roof. It’s great if you’re in the market for gifts, or simply looking to treat yourself. Alternatively, if you want to hunt down a bargain, Skipton Market dates back to medieval times and takes place on the High Street every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. There aren’t any fixed stalls, traders bring their own, so it can appear a bit higgledy piggledy but it all adds to the market’s charm.
If you’re staying at our Skipton North (Gargrave) hotel during the festive season then be sure to head down to the High Street for the Skipton Christmas Market, which takes place on the first two Sundays of December.
Last of all, any right minded shopaholic or foody simply has to pay a visit to Keelham Farm Shop. In a nutshell, it’s an absolutely beautiful farm shop selling produce from more than 400 Yorkshire producers and farmers. Ever since it opened, Keelham’s butchers has been recognised as one of the very best in the country. You can also visit the juicery, bakery, alehouse, and florists, and buy all manner of wonderful and delicious things. The shop’s won stacks of awards and – we think – it’s a must visit during your stay.
Getting Around
Once you’re in Skipton, the town is small enough to explore by foot. It’s just the getting here you need to really think about. The M65 skirts the south of the town centre, making it easy to reach Skipton by road. If you’re travelling by train, Skipton Railway Station is on Broughton Road. It has four platforms and regular services running to Leeds and Bradford, where you can travel further afield. Skipton Bus Station, on the other hand, is in the town centre, just off Keighley Road. If you need to get a taxi anywhere, we do have Uber in Skipton, as well as several local taxi providers.
Skipton shopping
