Things to do in Knaresborough
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- Knaresborough
- Things To Do In Knaresborough
You will find a choice of interesting things to do in Knaresborough thanks to its unique geography and medieval heritage. With its dramatic position perched on the top of the picturesque cliffs overlooking the River Nidd, and the majestic Victorian viaduct spanning the gorge – Knaresborough rewards those who are curious and keen to explore.
The ancient Norman Castle has stood its ground against several sieges over the centuries including those by the Parliamentary Forces in the English Civil War.
A visit to the castle gives a fascinating insight into its medieval life whilst the perfectly preserved Tudor courtroom in the adjacent Courthouse Museum conveys an authentic feel for Law and Order at the time.
Knaresborough’s market continues to thrive every Wednesday after over 500 years, with a range of stalls that surround the statue of local hero, Blind Jack, in the Market Square.
A gentle walk down to the picturesque riverside offers new vistas and reveals hidden gems such as Bebra Gardens. The waterside is a second focus of activity with cafes flanking the riverside and colourful boats are available to hire for – what else? – messing about on the river!
Those who love to be active will also find a plentiful supply of things to do in Knaresborough.
Walks along the river reveal several beauty spots and points of historical interest; the 12th century home of the medieval hermit St Robert and across the water, perhaps the strangest of Knaresborough’s attractions Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well – England’s oldest visitor attraction and the original home of the famous prophetess.
If you want to blow away the cobwebs – why not explore the woodland tracks and trails which cross the Nidd Gorge and beyond.
The Knaresborough Round is a circular walk that takes in many of the delightful villages that surround the town, each with a welcoming pub and beer garden where you can take a moment and enjoy your surroundings.
For those who prefer two wheels, the Beryl Burton Cycleway provides an opportunity for traffic-free family cycling to both Ripley and Harrogate and takes in the grade II listed Nidd Gorge viaduct.
You might run out of energy, but you will not run out of things to do around Knaresborough.
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Stockeld Park
Welcome to Stockeld Park, a magical destination that will transport you to… Welcome to Stockeld Park, a magical destination that will transport you to a world of enchantment and adventure!Open every weekend and during holiday…
Mother Shipton's Cave and Petrifying Well
Mother Shipton’s is a beloved Knaresborough landmark and England’s oldest… Mother Shipton’s is a beloved Knaresborough landmark and England’s oldest visitor attraction, open since 1630. This popular visitor attraction tells…
Knaresborough Castle & Museum
A stronghold of medieval kings, Knaresborough Castle is beautifully set,… A stronghold of medieval kings, Knaresborough Castle is beautifully set, overlooking the River Nidd.Explore Knaresborough Castle independently and…
Knaresborough Heritage Centre
The Knaresborough Heritage Centre offers locals and visitors an… The Knaresborough Heritage Centre offers locals and visitors an interesting and informative opportunity to experience the history, archaeology, and…
Bebra Gardens, Knaresborough
This small, colourful, public park is a hidden gem in the town of… This small, colourful, public park is a hidden gem in the town of Knaresborough. The park is reached by crossing the dry moat from Knaresborough…
Staveley Nature Reserve
Staveley Nature Reserve, spanning 84 hectares, features a shallow lagoon… Staveley Nature Reserve, spanning 84 hectares, features a shallow lagoon surrounded by reedswamp, fen, grassland, scrub, and pasture. Home to over…
St Robert's Cave
St Robert’s Cave and chapel in Knaresborough are a rare medieval… St Robert’s Cave and chapel in Knaresborough are a rare medieval hermitage, carved into limestone. St Robert of Knaresborough, born Robert Flower in…
Knaresborough Windows
Knaresborough's "Town Windows" is a unique public art project that brings… Knaresborough's "Town Windows" is a unique public art project that brings the town’s rich history to life through trompe l'oeil paintings. These…
