Knaresborough (North Yorkshire, England)

Knaresborough is a market and spa town and civil parish in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. The town consist of a remains of cliff top castle, rowing boat rides, beautiful viaducts, painted ‘Town Windows’, adorable cafes and mother Shipton’s cave.

Remains of Knaresborough Castle is situated on top of a cliff overlooking the River Nidd. The original castle was built in the 12th century, the remains here now date back to the 14th century.

The castle has magnificent view and a beautiful garden with a war memorial. At one side there is enchanting view of viaducts and railway bridge; on the other side there is a beautiful view of autumn trees and a mesmerising castle mills.

Knaresborough castle also has had two ravens since 2000, one of which was donated by the Tower of London, and another an African Pied Crow named Mourdour.

Mother Shipton’s cave and Petrifying well is one of the oldest tourist attractions. The cave is a birthplace of famous prophetess and as per the legend she foretold the fates of several rulers and events. The place is also famous for Petrifying well. It’s believed that this well can turn every day objects in to stone. Around the back of this Petrifying well there is a well hidden wishing well. This wishing well is a small pond of water inside a cave and its believed that you must dip your right hand in the water while making a wish and let the water dry naturally for the wish to come true.

As you walk through the cave there are several interesting things including wooden sculptures, faces carved in wooden logs and even wooden logs with hundreds (if not thousands) of coins hammered in it. You might also come across few actors dressed as ghosts and witches along the way.

If you are visiting Knaresborough on a Sunny day with a small group of friends then you must take a Rowing Boat trip on the River Nidd. You can hire a rowing boat at the waterside cafes. They would give you a quick demonstration and you can row your own boat.