Starts: Saturday 12 September 2026, 10am to 4pm BST
George Clifford, third earl of Cumberland, was one of the most flamboyant and extravagant courtiers at the court of Elizabeth I. As the Queen’s Champion he organised and jousted in sumptuous tournaments held in Elizabeth’s honour and yet the cost of maintaining his courtly position nearly bankrupted his family. In an attempt to relieve the increasing pressures and costs of courtly life at a time of rampant inflation, George Clifford resorted to piracy and privateering and in 1597 captured San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico.
Discover the career of George Clifford, the “Privateering Earl” and the harsh realities of Tudor politics and courtly life.
This day school is based in Skipton Castle, home to the Clifford family, and their descendants, for over six hundred years. The afternoon will include an opportunity to explore Skipton Castle as well as George Clifford’s tomb in Holy Trinity Church, Skipton.
Start Date: Saturday 12 September 2026
Time: 10am to 4pm BST
Duration: 1 week
Full Fee: £75 – includes entry to Skipton Castle.
Location: Skipton Castle, Classroom-based
Refreshments: You can bring a packed lunch with you, enjoy a selection of homemade cakes and light meals in the Skipton Castle Tearoom, or buy a sandwich from a shop in Skipton High Street.
Directions: For directions by car or train, and details of parking at the Bailey Car Park see Location of Skipton Castle
More information: This course will be delivered face-to-face in Skipton Castle. For more details about the castle see Skipton Castle Access Statement
Book your place on this course using this link. We will send you an invoice after you have booked your place.
The deadline for booking this course is Wednesday 26 August 2026.