Knaresborough
A market town in the River Nidd gorge, where castle ruins overlook a Victorian railway viaduct, and beside the river stands England's oldest paid attraction, Mother Shipton's Cave.
Knaresborough lies east of Harrogate. The castle ruins on the cliff top offer the best view of the Nidd gorge and the Victorian railway viaduct, and rowing boats can be hired on the river. Across the river, Mother Shipton's Cave is said to be the birthplace of a 16th-century female prophet. Beside it, the 'petrifying well' slowly turns hanging teddy bears to stone. From York it takes about 30 minutes by train, and it can be combined with Harrogate in a single day. The castle and riverside paths are free; the cave attraction charges admission.
Opening hours
Open all day (castle and caves area approx. 10:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Harrogate
- Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal
- National Railway Museum
- Museum Gardens & St Mary's Abbey
- York Art Gallery
- Mansion House, York
- Bettys Café Tea Rooms
- Stonegate