Conisbrough Castle

Conisbrough Castle is a historic fortress offering breathtaking vistas over Conisbrough. It famously inspired Sir Walter Scott’s epic novel Ivanhoe and continues to captivate imaginations today. Step inside the lofty circular keep, where floors and roofs have been lovingly restored, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of this 12th-century masterpiece. Immerse yourself in the medieval world of Lord and Lady de Warenne, and enjoy the verdant grassy areas surrounding the castle walls, perfect for games and picnics.

A Glimpse into the Past

History of Conisbrough Castle

The majestic keep of Conisbrough Castle stands as one of South Yorkshire’s most remarkable landmarks. This castle was once the heart of a great Norman lordship, bestowed upon William de Warenne by William the Conqueror. The keep itself likely took shape in the 1170s or 1180s. Remarkably, it escaped damage during the Civil War but transformed into a picturesque ruin during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Early Beginnings

Unearthing Conisbrough’s Origins

The name ‘Conisbrough’ finds its roots in the Anglo-Saxon term ‘Cyningesburh,’ meaning ‘the king’s borough.’ While little is known of the site before the Norman Conquest, Conisbrough town held significance long before that period. A major Anglian church, now known as the Church of St Peter, graced this location, likely as early as the 8th century. This venerable structure stands as the oldest standing building in South Yorkshire.

Conisbrough may have served as a royal estate and minster for the Anglian kings of Northumbria. Throughout the Anglo-Saxon and Viking eras, it emerged as the most prominent place in South Yorkshire.

In 1086, the Domesday Book documented the estate, encompassing 28 townships, stretching east to the Lincolnshire border and south to Harthill. It covered a significant portion of the southeast corner of the West Riding. Before the Norman Conquest, these estates belonged to King Harold.

Plan Your Visit

Advanced Booking

Secure your day ticket to Conisbrough Castle online to enjoy the best prices and convenience.

• Online ticket booking is available until 8.45 am on the day of your visit, providing you with discounted rates.
• Tickets can also be purchased upon arrival, but the discount won’t apply.
• After obtaining your day ticket, you can arrive at any time during opening hours and explore at your own pace.

For up to date pricing, click here.

Accessibility Information

For comprehensive accessibility details, please visit the Accessibility page.