In the heart of the village sits
Spofforth Castle, the ruined medieval residence of William de Percy dating back to 1067. It has a rich and distinguished history having played its part in the War of the Roses and the Civil War but maybe most notably, Spofforth Castle is reputed to be the place at which the Magna Carta was drawn up in 1215.
Directly behind the castle is an impressive Victorian railway viaduct, a reminder that Spofforth was once on the busy rail line linking Leeds and Harrogate to York.
Just outside Spofforth is Stockeld Park, a grand 18th-century Palladian style mansion, originally home of William Middelton. This Grade I listed building is at the heart of a 2000 acre estate but is perhaps more well-known today for its family friendly adventure park.