Richard Holmes Dark History of Pontefract Castle

Dark deeds, grisly tales and gruesome ends Pontefract Castle has seen it all!Join our costumed guide (Chris Cade) as he takes on the role of local Victorian historian Richard Holmes. Richard will lead you on a lantern-lit tour of the castle, illuminating its dark history.Richard Holmes was the leading historian of Pontefract in the 1800s. Using Holmes original publications, Chris Cade has created an entertaining and educational tour of the castle.Book your tickets now for a terrific night out if you dare!Ticket price also includes a hot drink from The Keep Caf.Please note:this tour involves steps around the site and going into the dungeon. The dungeon can only be accessed by a series of steep historical steps. If you cannot comfortably reach the dungeon, we can show you a video of the dungeon tour on a tablet while the rest of the group are below ground.
The tour is not suitable for under 5s.The majority of the tour is dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a lead. Part of the tour involves going into the dungeon at Pontefract Castle. Dogs (including assistance dogs) unfortunately can't be allowed into the dungeon. If you choose to bring a dog, the dog and an adult must stay above ground during the dungeon part of the tour.Contact Us
Online bookings enquiries:Call 01924 302700 and leave a message. This number is monitored during office hours: Monday to Friday, 9 to 4. (It is not monitored at weekends and on bank holidays)
General visit and on-the-day enquiries:Contact the Pontefract Castle Gift Shop on 01977 723440 and leave a message. This number is monitored Tuesday to Sunday, 10 to 4.
You can also email us atcastles@wakefield.gov.uk. Please note this email address is only monitored during office hours.