Cliffe Castle Museum

7 miles away from Skipton, in Keighley.

On entering the portals of this establishment, the building ahead gives little away as to what lies inside. But once you get through it's front doors, you begin to stare in wonder at the opulence and magnificence of the place.

Cliffe Castle was built by Christopher Netherwood a lawyer in Keighley, and finished in 1833. It was designed by George Webster of Kendal. Later it was bought and the grounds expanded from 20 to 300 acres by local textile magnate Henry Isaac Butterfield. In 1960 the house was converted into the local museum. Amongst the permanent displays are :-

• "Airedale: the formation and life of a valley"
  Showing how the local area formed.
• "Natural History"
  Display cases of the local wildlife occurring in the area.
• "Riches Underfoot"
  Old objects and photographs, featuring one of the last hand looms to be used in the area.
• "Molecules to Minerals"
  A very handsome collection of crystals and polished stones, to explain what they are and how they are formed.
• "Local Bygones"
  Social, Domestic, Industrial, and Agricultural items of Victorian, and Georgian origin.
• "Staffordshire Pottery"
  Of animals politicians, and historical figures.
• "Stained Glass"
  Early glass from East Riddlesden Hall and a range of William Morris pieces, including later church glass.

Facilities:

Carpark, Cafe (for details and group bookings, telephone 01535 606593), Aviaries, Children's play area. Museum Shop: Stone items are a speciality as well as old fashioned toys and souvenirs. Disabled access: Wheelchair access to museum ground floor (75% of displays), cafe and some of the park. Disabled persons' vehicle parking and toilet.

(the information below is correct as of June 2002)

Admission:

Free

Hours:

Open all year: Tue - Sat 10.00 - 17.00, Sundays 12.00 - 17.00. Closed: Mondays (except Bank Holidays) and Good Friday.

Contact details:

Telephone: (01535) 618231
Fax: (01535) 610536
e-mail:
Website: www.bradford.gov.uk/tourism/museums/cliffe.htm

Address: Spring Gardens Lane, Keighley BD20 6LH.

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This page (and all photos) submitted by Crag Face. Good work, fella.

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