All about Knaresborough

Here are a few frequently asked questions to get to know Knaresborough and help you plan your visit.

What is Knaresborough known for?

Knaresborough is known for being the birthplace of the famous prophetess, Ursula Southeil or Mother Shipton as she was known. She was said to have been born in a cave by the river and according to legend predicted many things which then happened. Mother Shipton’s Cave is England’s oldest tourist attraction having first started charging admission in 1630.

The view across the River Nidd from the Castle grounds is one of the most popular viewpoints in the area and is very popular for selfies and social media content. The panoramic view takes in the river, the weir, the famous viaduct, the boats on the river and the wooded landscape.

How do I spend a day in Knaresborough?

Start your visit at the imposing Knaresborough Castle ruins. The Kings Tower, Tudor Courthouse (now the Courthouse Museum) and the underground Sallyport (open for tours only) are the only remaining parts of the once vast medieval castle which was a stronghold of kings and was involved in the English Civil War.

Take in the famous view from the Castle across the river and viaduct before walking to Bebra Gardens, named after Knaresborough’s twin town in Germany. From here, walk down to the river and go along Waterside where there are small cafés with outside seating, or you can hire a rowing boat. Visit Mother Shipton’s Cave on the opposite side of the river or St Robert’s Cave on Abbey Road before returning to the town centre looking out for the town windows, a trompe l’oeil art installation on the way. Look around the marketplace and wander along the narrow streets for great little shops and places to eat.

For a further look into the types for shops and eateries Knaresborough has to offer visit our Knaresborough shopping page and Eating & Drinking in Knaresborough page.

Is Knaresborough a walkable town?

Knaresborough is a compact town with all the tourist attractions, sights and local amenities close together. However, the town in split into two distinct areas due to the natural landscape with the town and castle area at the top and the river at the bottom of the crag. There are steep steps or steep inclines/descents on roads and paths to move between both parts of the town.

What are the best walks to do from Knaresborough?

The Nidd Gorge is an ancient woodland between Knaresborough and Harrogate teeming with flora and fauna. Follow the path of the River Nidd towards Harrogate where you can pick up the cycle path to either Harrogate or Ripley.

The Knaresborough Round is a twenty-two-mile circular walk taking you on a route through the surrounding farmland, woodland and Knaresborough itself.

What day is market day in Knaresborough?

Market day is Wednesday. There is also a monthly artisan makers market on the first Saturday of the month in the Castle grounds.

What are the big events in Knaresborough?

One of the most unique events in the UK is the Knaresborough Bed Race which happens on the second Saturday in June. See the ‘beds’ dressed as they parade through the town before being raced with the route culminating in a river crossing. Join in the fun with lots of entertainments throughout the day.

For more events visit our What's on in Knaresborough page.

Does Knaresborough have an old town?

Knaresborough is a medieval market town with the Castle dating from the 12th century. The town centre has buildings and landmarks dating from many different time periods.

Did Blind Jack, live in Knaresborough?

Yes, John Metcalfe or ‘Blind Jack of Knaresborough’ as he was known was a famous roadbuilder and civil engineer who was born in Knaresborough. Blind from childhood, he was responsible for building 180 miles of turnpike roads in the north of England. He was also an accomplished violinist.