Knaresborough Visitor Guide
Welcome to Knaresborough, a charming market town perched above the River Nidd in North Yorkshire. With its cobbled streets, medieval history, and scenic landscapes, Knaresborough offers something for every visitor. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Knaresborough Visitor Guide
-
Getting There
By Car: Knaresborough is easily accessible via the A59, which connects to the A1(M). Parking is available in town at locations like Conyngham Hall and Chapel Street car parks.
By Train: The town has its own train station with regular services from Leeds, York, and Harrogate.
By Bus: Several bus routes connect Knaresborough to nearby towns like Harrogate, Ripon, and Leeds.
-
Annual Events
Knaresborough Bed Race (June): A quirky, fun-filled race involving decorated beds and teams running through the town.
FEVA Festival (August): A celebration of music, art, and performance.
Christmas Market (December): Festive stalls, carol singers, and mulled wine in the Market Square.
-
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for vibrant gardens and outdoor activities, or December for the festive atmosphere.
Accessibility: Many attractions are wheelchair accessible, but some hilly areas may require extra planning.
Stay Longer: Use Knaresborough as a base to explore nearby attractions like Harrogate, Fountains Abbey, and Ripley Castle.
Knaresborough
North Yorkshire
Things to See and Do at Knaresborough
-
1. Knaresborough Castle and Museum
Overview: Overlooking the River Nidd, this 12th-century ruin offers stunning views and insight into the town's medieval history.
What to See: Explore the grounds, visit the museum, and enjoy the views from the King's Tower.
Seasonal Events: In summer, enjoy events like outdoor theatre performances.
2. Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well
Overview: England’s oldest visitor attraction, this natural wonder is tied to legends of Mother Shipton, a famous prophetess.
Features: Walk along scenic pathways to the cave and see the Petrifying Well, where objects turn to stone due to mineral-rich waters.
3. The River Nidd and Waterside Walk
Highlights: Stroll or hire a rowing boat for a peaceful experience. Stop by cafes along the Waterside for refreshments.
Best Views: Capture photos of the iconic Knaresborough Viaduct from the riverside or from the Castle Grounds.
4. Bebra Gardens
Why Visit: This serene park near the castle is perfect for picnics and offers a children’s play area.
Insider Tip: Visit in spring for blooming flowers or autumn for vibrant foliage.
5. Market Square
What to Expect: Knaresborough's bustling market has been held every Wednesday for centuries. You'll find fresh produce, crafts, and antiques.
-
1. Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag
What It Is: A tiny chapel carved into a cliff, dating back to the 15th century.
Location: Along Abbey Road, a short walk from the town center.
2. Knaresborough’s Secret Passages
Explore: Look out for hidden alleys and passageways like Waterside's ginnels. They add a sense of mystery and charm to your visit.
3. Conyngham Hall Grounds
Why Visit: These tranquil grounds are perfect for walks or picnics. There's also a mini-golf course and plenty of wildlife.
-
Row a Boat: Rent a rowing boat along the River Nidd and enjoy a leisurely trip under the viaduct.
Explore Local Art: Visit Art in the Mill gallery for works by local artists.
Take a Hike: Follow the Nidd Gorge walking trails for spectacular woodland and river views.
-
Cafes
The Ugly Duckling Tearoom: Famous for its cream teas and cozy ambiance.
Marigold Cafe: Riverside dining with a great menu.
Pubs
The Crown Inn: A historic pub with hearty meals and real ales.
The Mitre Inn: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and Sunday roasts.
Restaurants
Carriages: A unique dining experience in a converted railway carriage.
Two Brothers Grill & Pizzeria: Family-friendly with delicious Italian-inspired dishes.
-
Hotels
The Dower House Hotel & Spa: A boutique hotel with spa facilities.
Old Royal Oak: A charming inn located in the town center.
B&Bs
Newton House: A Georgian gem offering comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast.
Goldsborough Hall: A luxury stay in a nearby historic hall.
Camping and Glamping
Knaresborough Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Ideal for families and nature lovers.
-
Tourism and General Information
Visit Harrogate - Knaresborough
Comprehensive guide to Knaresborough and nearby areas.Discover Yorkshire: Knaresborough
General tourist information and highlights.
Top Attractions
Knaresborough Castle and Museum
Details on opening times, tickets, and events.Mother Shipton’s Cave and Petrifying Well
Learn about England’s oldest tourist attraction and book tickets online.Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag
Visit this unique, carved medieval chapel.Conyngham Hall Grounds
Information about the grounds and facilities.
Accommodation
Newton House Knaresborough
A highly-rated Georgian B&B in the town center.Dower House Hotel & Spa
Boutique hotel with excellent amenities and a spa.Knaresborough Caravan and Camping Club Site
For campers and caravanners seeking a stay in nature.
Food and Drink
The Ugly Duckling Tearoom
Check out their menu and updates.Two Brothers Grill & Pizzeria
Browse their Italian-inspired dishes.Carriages
Dine in a converted railway carriage for a unique experience.
Events and Festivals
Knaresborough Bed Race
Official site for this quirky, annual tradition.FEVA Festival
Information on the Festival of Entertainment and Visual Arts.
Transportation
Northern Railway - Knaresborough Station
Train schedules and station details.Transdev Buses: Knaresborough Services
Local bus services connecting Knaresborough with Harrogate, Leeds, and beyond.
Local Insights
Harrogate Borough Council - Knaresborough
Official local government site with public services and updates.Knaresborough Now
Local news, events, and community updates.
Overview
Welcome to Knaresborough, a charming market town perched above the River Nidd in North Yorkshire. With its cobbled streets, medieval history, and scenic landscapes, Knaresborough offers something for every visitor. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Explore the Great Yorkshire Day Out
-
Our Visits
We visit some of the popular locations and report back to you what we find with photos and video.
-
Visitor Locations
To help you plan your Yorkshire break away we have researched the most popular locations.
-
Printable Guides
We have produced some guides that are easy to copy/print for top attractions in Yorkshire.