Things to do at Sandal Castle

Sandal Castle

Things to do at Sandal Castle

Wondering how to spend your time at Sandal Castle?

Check out our guide of things to do!

A man walking a border collie and a woman walking a dachshund in front of the ruins of Sandal Castle

Walk the dogs

Enjoy a wander around the castle and on to Pugney's Country Park with your furry friend.

The castle grounds are a great place to give your dogs some exercise (or ferret, or tortoise...)

We've got plenty of bins in the car park, so no need to carry that poop with you!

(Please pick up after your pets and always keep them on a lead.)

A child and an adult looking out from the keep at Sandal Castle over the surrounding area

Go birdwatching

You can see for miles from Sandal Castle's strategic position!

Cast your eyes over the River Calder and Pugney's Country Park in the distance.

There are often many birds to spot. Will you see any nesting gulls or sparrowhawks?

A picnic basket and blanket with tasty food laid out on the ground

Have a picnic

Where better to have a picnic than a castle? Pack your hamper and feast like royalty on the bailey.

You could also treat yourself to a tasty meal at the popular Castle Café. It's run by a friendly local family team. Check out their Facebook for menus and opening times.

Two adults and a child walking past the ruins of Sandal Castle with a rainbow kite

Fly a kite

Let’s go fly a kite… There are very few days when it’s not windy at Sandal!

The wide, open space makes it an ideal place to fly your kite, up to the highest height.

A child and an adult sat on a bench looking out over Wakefield from Sandal Castle

Catch up with family and friends

Looking for a unique spot for a catch-up? Make Sandal Castle your new meeting point.

Take a seat on one of our many benches and have a good natter.

These castle walls hold many secrets - and they won't spill yours!

A dramatic purple, orange and yellow sunset behind the ruins of Sandal Castle

Watch the sunset

Sandal Castle is open all day, every day. It’s a favourite spot for watching the sunrise, sunset and stargazing. We’ve even seen the Northern Lights here.

(Please note the car park closes at 5pm in Autumn / Winter and 7:45pm in Spring / Summer. Please do not park on the roadside leading up to Sandal Castle as it blocks access for emergency vehicles. You can still access the site at all hours on foot, including bank holidays.)