Knaresborough is a Town in the county of North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough, a charming market town in North Yorkshire, England, boasts a rich history and picturesque scenery, making it a unique destination. Nestled on the cliffs above the River Nidd, Knaresborough offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
The town’s history dates back to the Norman conquest, evident in its medieval streets and ancient structures. One of the most iconic landmarks is Knaresborough Castle. Originally built around 1100, this fortress has witnessed many historical events, including being a stronghold during the English Civil War. Although now in ruins, the castle remains a focal point of the town, offering breathtaking views over the river and the viaduct.
Another intriguing site is Mother Shipton’s Cave, reputedly the birthplace of the famous prophetess Ursula Southeil, better known as Mother Shipton. This legendary figure of English folklore is said to have predicted many events. The nearby Petrifying Well, famous for its ability to turn objects into stone, adds to the area’s mystique.
Knaresborough is also renowned for its market, held every Wednesday in the town square. This bustling market features a wide array of goods, from fresh local produce to handcrafted items, reflecting the town’s strong community spirit and tradition.
The River Nidd is central to Knaresborough’s charm. The riverside promenade is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, ideal for leisurely walks, and is dotted with quaint cafes and restaurants offering scenic views. Rowing boats are available for hire, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the river up close.
Each year, Knaresborough hosts the Bed Race, a unique event that combines a parade and a race. Teams decorate beds and parade them through the town before racing them over a challenging course, including a crossing of the River Nidd. This event, which began in 1966, embodies the town’s community spirit and quirky charm.
In conclusion, Knaresborough’s blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant community events make it a must-visit destination. Its enduring charm continues to captivate visitors from around the world, leaving a lasting impression of its unique character and heritage.
Knaresborough postcode: HG5 8
There are great places to visit near Knaresborough including some great waterfalls, ruins, historic monuments, hiking areas, villages, rivers and streams, towns, caves, limestone pavements, geological features, mountains, cities, historic buildings, hills, castles, country parks, parks, gardens and ancient sites.
Waterfalls to visit near Knaresborough include Catrigg Force, Lockin Garth Force, Whitfield Gill Force, Slape Wath Waterfall, Mill Gill Force, Cotter Force, and Aysgill Force.
The area around Knaresborough features a number of interesting ruins including Bolton Abbey, Byland Abbey, Easby Abbey (ruin), Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Fountains Abbey (ruin), Trig Point on Warrendale Knotts, and Old Limekiln at Blua Crags.
The area around Knaresborough features a number of interesting historic monuments including Bolton Abbey, Culloden Tower, and Robin Hood's Well (Fountains).
There are a several good hiking areas in the Knaresborough area like Deepdale, Cotterdale, Southerscales, Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, Swilla Glen, Baxenghyll Gorge, and Raven Ray.
There are a several good villages in the Knaresborough area like Pool-in-Wharfedale, Askrigg, Hardraw, Malham, West Burton, Bainbridge, and Aysgarth.
Don't miss Whitfield Beck, Mill Gill, Hardraw Beck, River Wharfe, and Walden Beck at West Burton's rivers and streams if visiting the area around Knaresborough.
Hawes, Skipton, Grassington, Richmond, Middlesbrough, Harrogate, and Settle are some of Knaresborough best towns to visit near Knaresborough.
Great Douk Cave, White Scar Cave, Yordas Cave, Janet's Cave, Gaping Gill, Horseshoe Cave, and Jubilee Cave are some of Knaresborough best caves to visit near Knaresborough.
Don't miss Southerscales, Malham Cove, and Warrendale Knotts Limestone Pavement's limestone pavements if visiting the area around Knaresborough.
Malham Cove, and Brimham Rocks are great places to visit near Knaresborough if you like geological features.
The area close to Knaresborough boasts some of the best mountains including Ingleborough.
The area around Knaresborough features a number of interesting cities including York, and Ripon.
There are a number of historic buildings near Knaresborough including York Minster, Culloden Tower, and Beggar’s Bridge.
Don't miss Addlebrough, Warrendale Knotts, Giggleswick Scar, Blua Crags, Sugar Loaf Hill, and Attermire Scar's hills if visiting the area around Knaresborough.
The area around Knaresborough features a number of interesting castles including Skipton Castle, Richmond Castle, and Bolton Castle.
The area around Knaresborough's best country parks can be found at Brimham Rocks.
Don't miss Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Fountains Abbey (ruin), and Studley Royal Water Garden's parks if visiting the area around Knaresborough.
Gardens to visit near Knaresborough include Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.
Schoolboys Tower, Jubilee Cave, and Victoria Cave are great places to visit near Knaresborough if you like ancient sites.
Knaresborough History
There are some historic monuments around Knaresborough:
Places to see near Knaresborough
History of Knaresborough
The Honour of Knaresborough then passed to the Stuteville family. When the Stuteville line was broken with the death of Robert the 4th (son of Robert 3rd) in 1205, King John effectively took the Honour of Knaresborough for himself. The first Maundy Money was distributed in Knaresborough by King John on 15 April 1210. Knaresborough Forest, which extended far to the south of the town, is reputed to have been one of King John’s favourite hunting grounds.
