We visited Mother Shipton’s Cave as a family of four, three adults and one 10-year-old girl and it was such a magical experience! ✨ The whole place feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The woodland walk is peaceful and beautiful, surrounded by tall ancient trees, charming paths, and hidden surprises. My niece was absolutely enchanted by the wishing well and the old tree where visitors press coins into the bark for good luck. Throwing coins into the water felt like something out of a storybook. The wooden sculptures, fairy-tale cottages, and mystical atmosphere make this place truly special. It’s the perfect mix of nature, history, and imagination a wonderful day out for families, nature lovers, or anyone who still believes in a bit of magic. 🌿💫

Went for a birthday treat as visiting the area and as a couple with a dog. The place was busy but not overly and had a great family feel. We wish we could have taken our kiddies here when younger, they would have loved this. We enjoyed the Halloween experience and so good to have somewhere that is dog friendly. Loved the autumnal walk and pretty lights. The queue for the hot chocolate and drinks was large so would be nice to have two venues for refreshments but people bought their own as well so we could have planned to do this. Lovely outdoor walk with the dog and interesting site. Poor mother shipton and her 15 year old mum, what a life. When you think about it a poor bullied young woman who made the best of her tragic life and now we visit the cave she lived in. The sites not that deep though lol so it is child friendly in presentation, but as an adult visiting it's quite thoughtful. I love the history and that it's been visited for so many years. Worth a trip, and dog friendly. Thanks

Fantastic, really enjoyed the whole experience. There is audio so don't forget to press the button. Did not realise it was dog friendly also, except not allowed in the gift shop. There are lots of seating areas should you wish to bring a picnic. No problem getting parked as was quiet and we were only charged pedestrian charge. We went first week in September so I imagine it would be very busy when schools are off.

My son treated me to a fabulous time here today. All I can say is go!!! Its well worth it. The story of Mother Shipton is delivered with respect and compassion. I dont know how much the entry fee is as this was a gift . I had a delicious hot chocolate and a cheese and onion pasty halfway through the walk and was served by 2 lovely polite and friendly ladies. Later , I made my wish at the well. The gift shop is small but well stocked. All.in all a lovely place to visit. Give yourself about 3 hours.

A beautiful gem, the living history. The forest walk is amazing, throughout the whole year. The peak is Halloween: amazing programs, kind and helpful staff members. The waterfall and its stoney effects on artifacts is world unique phenomenon, lovely gift shop. Ideal for couples, families (with pram, elderly people or doggos). Parking lot is big enough: simply must visit, to make life memories.

We’ve visited Mother Shipton’s Cave quite a few times now – first as a couple, and more recently as a family with our son. It’s easily one of our favourite places to visit together, and somehow we fall in love with it a little more every time we go. Autumn is by far our favourite season to visit – the colours, the crisp air, and the atmosphere perfectly capture everything we love about this time of year. There’s so much to see and do for both adults and children, and it always feels like stepping into a little pocket of magic.

Absolutely outstanding place to visit. We visited during the fairy trail exhibition and had the most magical time. There was lots to do and see. There was a little fairy village with lots of different information, we visited the petrifying waterfall that turns items to stone over a period of time which was absolutely fascinating. There is a little gift shop at the end of the walks which was really weird and wonderful.

It's the ruins a castle built in the 1100s, and then rebuilt in the 1300s. Nothing particularly impressive compared to the other castle we've seen, at least not from the outside (we didn't went inside). But you do get a good view of the viaduct from here.

This place has an extremely beautiful view of river and viaduct from its ground. You don’t need to pay tickets to roam on their ground. But castle and courthouse itself is rich. The staff are fantastic. Very helpful and polite.

Had a lovely day, weather was sunny, castle is well brocken up but you can get into the dungeon as they call it and up to the first floor too. The court house is interesting to look around as well. Lots of views over the river, and handy for the town center easy walk.

Wasn't planning on visiting Knaresborough but took up the suggestion from someone at the hotel we were staying at in Harrogate. Unexpected andsurprising. The castle and the view to the River Nidd quite awesome. Well worth it and only a short bus ride from Harrogate too so no need to take the car.

Well preserved ruins of the castle. Very scenic view of the viaduct. The views are stunning.

Nice, calm and serene atmosphere. Well preserved ruins of the castle. Very scenic view of the via duct. The museum is closed on Monday.

This beautiful and charming town has a long history with a castle and museum on top of the hill. Basically its ruins of a castle which are free but you have to pay for tower and museum. The castle location gives you an amazing views across to the town as it’s at top on the hill. It has a park within the castle walls. There’s a parking as well. From top of the castle, you can have best stunning views of river Nidd and viaduct. Woth a visit to capture some astonishing photos of viaduct and river as well as scenery around.

What a beautiful experience and the best £5 you will ever spend. Take your children and escape for a few hours , wander through the forest and the wonderful rocks . Scenery beautiful. Will definitely be back.

Beautiful scenery... Felt like I had stepped into a set from Lord of the Rings. Stunning paths wind their way between majestic rocks. Peaceful when I visited, and could be a wonderful adventure for children. The lady on the entrance was incredibly helpful and very welcoming. I got the entry included as part of Historic House membership, which I would recommend for anyone interested in historic properties and gardens.

One of the prettiest places I’ve ever been, completely unexpected and well worth travelling to, easy to get to and only £5 entry is a bargain! Lovely lady who greeted us too.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect as I navigated a sharp bend into the ample car parking at this site. A friendly welcome from the lady taking the more than reasonable fees Historic Hous memberships get free admission) and then a wander round the lake in a clockwise direction. Younare deliberately guided in this direction. Fairly recent restorations of woodland and a historic Turner view greeted me, and you could ooh and aah at the rock formations on the far shore. A quick amble round the lake on a pleasant walk then the proper journey began, with the contorted trees clinging to the rocks, roots anchoring them and adding to a Lord of the Rings type scene. Rocks in all directions, smoothed by time and simply massive, with wide bowls of woodland kissed by the sun with dappled sun glaring through. I was stunned. Some of the reviews seem to have missed the point that a private landowner has bothered to restore a woodland, part of heritage so easily lost, and open it for people.to see.... I for one was immensely impressed at what has been done. Some of the trees are just so majestic and how on earth they thrive in this area is part of the joy of visiting. Lovely to see a mix of young and old enjoying what is a one to two hour visit to enjoy and absorb the woods and the rocks. What a pity I can't leave a sixth star...

Well worth a visit as a beautiful place and weird rock formations around a nice lake. You can buy limited snacks and drinks and there is one portaloo

Such a beautiful place for a picnic, this natural nature reserve is a wonderful beautiful spot which it great for children and big children to explore. It's great to see no litter about or any poo bags. The only thing that lets it down is the £5 per adult, it's too expensive. It should be £5 per car really as it's just a walk. I also wish the lake was in use and you could hire small boats out or even i could just paddle board on there. Now that would be worth £6 per adult :)

Well worth a visit, spent a few hours walking round the lakes, through the woodland and on the rocks

Having National Trust and English Heritage cards we are always a bit loathe to go somewhere we have to pay but this was well worth the money. Only £7.50 which includes a free cuppa and biscuits. This place was an absolutely beautiful restoration job. A testament to the skills that still remain in the world. We spent a good two hours there. The staff are lovely. Only open on a Tuesday from 10-1 or a guided tour at 2. And it looks like an amazing wedding venue.

Not in the actual Stately home, although a wedding was taking place on the Sunday and I saw the bride posing for fotos on the garden steps. I was in the parkland that encircled the wonderful building with other members of the North Yorkshire Driving Club. We had a great weekend and the weather favoured us most of the time.

☕ The guided building tour begins with coffee and biscuits, a welcome bit of fortification before embarking on a captivating journey that stretches over two hours. The tour delves into the lives of past residents, weaving together stories of grandeur and decline. Once a proud home, the property eventually fell into disrepair—until Dr. Rolph stepped in. In 1983, he purchased the building and began a painstaking restoration, returning it to its former glory not once, but twice—after a devastating fire threatened to erase his efforts. Highly recommend, but do book in advance.

We had the absolute pleasure of photographing a wedding at Allerton Castle, and it was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, we were in awe of the castle's grandeur and charm. It feels like you’ve stepped right into a storybook, with beautiful architecture and lush grounds that provide a perfect backdrop for photos. Allerton Castle is a photographer’s paradise and a perfect place for couples looking to have a fairytale wedding. We can’t wait to go back and create even more beautiful memories there!

I just had to show my fiance this absolutely breathtakingly stunning Gothic castle that I visited as a child. My mother was actually a resident here as a child when it was a children's home many years ago. Unfortunately, we couldn't look around inside as it was closed, but I hope to return to have a proper look sometime. My absolute dream would be to get married here, but I think it would be a little too pricey for us.

Absolutely incredible experience! The castle itself is breathtaking, but what truly amazed me was the trust—we were left completely free to explore, with every room open for us to use during our photoshoot. It felt so unique and special, unlike any other castle I’ve visited. Everything was spotless, warm, and so well cared for. The gardens were like something out of a fairytale—lush green grass and perfectly kept grounds. This photoshoot was unforgettable, and I’ll always remember how magical it felt. Alerton Castle is truly one of a kind.

I ran out of wows walking around, stunning, interesting,amazing,are just a few of the terms I would use for Allerton Castle,friendly staff and complimentary drink available as well wonderful grounds to wonder to get your breath back. All for a very reasonable entrance fee.

Beautiful park with variety of vibrant colors of plants and trees. Nice to spend some time in peace and close to nature.

Took the grandkids to the paddling pool . They loved it . Very well kept and lovely gardens . Deffo worth a visit

Like Bosna 🎈 hiden great view in the nature🌸

Small but lovely gardens. There is a paddling pool as well that is open from spring bank holiday to the first week in September. You just pay attention to steep slope that may cause difficulties for wheelchair users or the elderly

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Lovely gardens to walk through. There's decent paths going round the place, lots of plants and a paddling pool (not filled today). There's also a way to get to the castle through the gardens. Would recommend a visit.

Lovely gardens to chill out. Paddling pool for kids. Short Steep climb from riverside.

I walked quite a long route from the river along Abbey Road, home to many, ms y very exclusive properties. Luckily I was using Google maps or I would have gone straight past the small opening in the wall as the plaque was partly obscured by a parked car.It’s a short but fairly precarious drop down to the cave accessed by rough steps-not suitable for buggies etc and sensible shoes required. There’s a statue plus a couple information points. The cave is small, very dark and has uneven surface so a torch is advised. Lots of interesting carvings into every surface.

St Robert’s Cave in Knaresborough is a site of considerable historical and cultural significance, offering a rare glimpse into the life of the medieval hermit St Robert, who lived along the River Nidd in the early 13th century. The cave, carved into the cliffside and accompanied by the remnants of a small chapel, provides visitors with an engaging sense of place and context. Its location along the riverside path makes it an appealing stop for walkers interested in local heritage, spiritual history, or simply discovering one of the town’s more unusual landmarks. However, while the historical value of the site is undeniable, the current condition of the cave presents notable challenges for visitors. The interior frequently carries a strong smell of urine, a recurring issue that can detract from the experience and suggests a need for more active stewardship or protective measures. Additionally, the cave is often flooded, especially after periods of heavy rain or elevated river levels, which can restrict access and limit the ability to appreciate its architectural and historical features. These environmental and maintenance concerns are important for prospective visitors to be aware of in advance. Despite these drawbacks, St Robert’s Cave remains a compelling point of interest. Its rugged setting, layered history, and proximity to other scenic elements of the gorge continue to draw those who want to understand more about Knaresborough’s past. With improved conservation efforts, the site could better reflect its historical importance while offering a more comfortable and accessible experience. For now, it remains a place where the impact of time, environment, and human behaviour is evident, but its story is still worth exploring for those prepared for its present condition.

Great place to visit. There is parking for about four cars at the top of the steps and an information board. Halfway down the steps is a statue, then at the bottom an information board of the layout of the cave and information about it. The cave itself is small and dark so take a headtorch! I spent about ten minutes exploring the cave and area around the outside of it, including looking at the river and weir which were near the cave!

It's just a hole in the side of a cliff and some foundations, only visit if you are passing, visit the café over the other side of the river, amazing views down the valley and of the weir.

Lovely walk to St Roberts Cave passing some stunning houses on the Riverside.The cave has an information board when you get to it and some information leaflets.Fascinating to think he lived in that cave for 30 years.

A beautiful place, every where you look it's breath taking. A wonderful place for all the family.

Worth a short stop for a look, as part of a walk round Knaresborough. A nice spot next to the river. The steps from the small road down to the cave are not long but can be a bit slippery and there's no handrail so beware.

Visited on our way to whitby. The gate was locked at 11.30 am on Friday. So, I couldn't see and photograph the knight or the church. I understand locking the church, but surely a local could have unlocked the gate so peoplecouldsee the outside! Nothing on the website says that the gate would be locked!

Disappointed to find that visiting is only on a Sunday so access was not possible. I could vaguely make out some sort of carved medieval figure.

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag is one of Knaresborough’s most distinctive and captivating landmarks, offering visitors a rare blend of history, craftsmanship, and quiet spirituality. Carved directly into the limestone cliffside in the early 15th century, the chapel stands as an extraordinary example of devotion and artistry, and it provides a uniquely atmospheric experience that sets it apart from more conventional historical sites. Despite its small size, the space feels remarkably significant; every carved detail, from the doorway to the interior niches, reflects centuries of care and reverence. The approach to the chapel contributes significantly to its charm. Nestled just off the riverside path, it emerges suddenly and almost magically from the rock, inviting visitors to pause, explore, and reflect. Once inside, the peacefulness is immediate. The stone walls, cool and textured, create a sense of calm that encourages quiet contemplation. Visitors often comment on how the space feels both intimate and monumental at the same time, a testament to the skill and sensitivity of the original craftsmen. The surrounding area is equally picturesque, making the chapel an ideal stop for anyone walking through Knaresborough’s scenic Nidd Gorge pathways. Volunteers and caretakers do an exceptional job maintaining the site and sharing its story with genuine enthusiasm. Their stewardship ensures that the chapel remains accessible, respectful, and rich with context for both regular worshippers and casual tourists. Whether you are drawn by history, architecture, or simply a desire for a tranquil moment in a beautiful setting, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag offers a memorable and deeply rewarding experience. It is truly one of Knaresborough’s most remarkable treasures

Brilliant historic place to visit just to see it. Its history goes right back to the crusades. It's only open on a Sunday usually between 12 and 2. No entry fee but you can leave a donation.

Open on certain days, I've only been inside once when I was about thirteen years old it had a lot of lit candles very atmospheric. Always loved this building and the Knight or Saint carved out in the rock. Mystery who this is

Looks pretty from the pictures but when it’s not open you can’t even look outside it, why would you lock it up so no one can see it except for a couple hours on a Sunday?

So lucky to arrive just as 2 friendly gardening ladies were present to let us in. Very knowledgeable and great to talk to. Very special place.

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Really lovely place seating surrounding the Market Cross and it is situated in a very cute little square in the town that is surrounded by shops, cafes and pubs!

A delightful small venue that needs more publicity - barely visible on the high street with no posters or lights. There was a great stand up comedian, Robin Morgan, there on Saturday night and less than 30 in the audience. Bravo Robin! Disgrace on the managers of this theatre!

Visited Knaresborough for the weekend. Noticed the theatre had a 70s tribute evening. Struggled to order 5 tickets online. Phoned the theatre and got a very rude lady at the other end of the phone. Shame on her. I'd say she needs to go on a customer service course.

Lovely theatre venue, comfortable seating, nice bar great show and friendly staff. Limited parking right by the venue but ample parking within a leisurely few minutes walk. Will definitely be back.

We had a great night at Frazer Theatre the staff are very helpful and the and the Desparado's were amazing!

Went for their 11yr Comedy Club anniversary - bloody hilarious. Cheap bar, and only £10 entry. Highly recommend

Cute and cosy local theater. Lovely venue.

The Frazer theatre is a local institution that is probably one of Knaresborough's best kept secrets. Unassuming and hidden behind a Tesco and a curry house, you only know its there if you have been. But once you have been you don't forget it, a small theatre of 130ish seats puts on regular comedy nights, local events and other forms of entertainment like tribute bands and shows. The local pantomime by the Knaresborough players is always a good laugh to see in January. The staff are committed, hardworking and always helpful, and while I'm sure it's tempting to sneak in your own booze for the performance, buying from the small but well stocked bar in the foyer shows your support for a venue that would be missed if lost. Always entertainment never boring! I love the Frazer theatre. Long live the the Frazer Theatre.

This is an absolutely stunning church - we were both surprised and impressed by its grandeur. It is clearly very well looked after and preserved. A lovely and peaceful space which we were glad to have discovered during our afternoon in Knaresborough.

Beautiful large medieval church with rare stained glass by two of the best firms of the 19th century: Clayton and Bell (west window) and Burne-Jones (of Morris and Co). It is said that the original medieval scheme had a Saint Robert of Knaresborough narrative window. I wish I had a Time Machine just to be able to go back in time and see it! The volunteers working there were very welcoming and informative. A must see place in Knaresborough.

I parked on the road by the church (a clear kerb with no double yellow lines) assuming it was available for public parking, as there was no nearby signage indicating otherwise. When I returned to my car, I was shocked to find a large, adhesive warning sticker placed directly at eye level on my driver’s side window. The wording and presentation felt unnecessarily hostile. This was not an appropriate type of sticker for a vehicle — it left paper and glue residue, which meant I struggled to see properly out of my window and therefore to drive onwards safely. My dad later had to spend 30 minutes scrubbing it off. It’s very disappointing, as Knaresborough is such a friendly and welcoming place generally. However, this felt like an unnecessarily aggressive way to address the issue. A polite note under the windscreen wiper would have been far safer, and would have avoided causing damage to the car.

Beautiful church with wonderful stained glass windows. Surrounded by a park and tucked away behind the busy main street.

Grade 1 listed church, it's the largest church in Knaresborough. Dates mostly to the 15th century, but also has elements of 12th century structure. Church restored in 1878. There is a Norman chapel, a late medieval font in ornate Gothic style, some of the beautiful stained glass windows are from the William Morris studio. Worth a visit.

Lovely church which when we visited was holding a Christmas Tree festival full of Christmas trees designed by local businesses and groups it was really lovely with some amazingly imaginative trees.

This is an absolute jem. Wonderful feeling inside and stunning stained glass windows. St John the Baptist Church is a parish church in the Church of England located in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire. It is the largest church in the town. Records of a church on this site date back to at least 1114 when records from Nostell Priory, Wakefield show that King Henry I granted the "Church at Cnaresburgh" to the canons at Nostell. The church was originally dedicated to St Mary but was changed to its current name in the 16th century following reform after the English reformation. The bells were hung in 1774 and the clock erected in 1884.

Very rude lady on reception. I made it to the top of the steps where she was chatting on the phone as I just entered the doorway she covered her handset and said we don’t allow dogs. To which I replied some signage may help informing people to this. Another couple coming out also noticed this and commented she’s a bit rude and also said there’s no notice anywhere. 😡

More tourist information than you can shake a stick at

Closed on a Sunday,not that helpful for a very busy day.

Very helpful staff

Very helpful

The most helpful and charming lady gave us very useful advice.

Went for general swim today and on the whole I was impressed. My main complaint would be that a session advertised as general swim was shared with lane swimming. This makes an already restricted pool into quite a small pool. It doesn't take many swimmers in half a pool to make it quite restrictive. Didn't even bother with the car park as it is quite small.

Terrible fun session there is no fun, the lifeguards are rude no help whatsoever not approachable how is children supposed to learn to be confident in the water and learn to swim? Took 2 kids with me today after 10 times trying hard and doing her best to swim the full length of the pool kept being told no she can't go on the one inflatable that was available even though a 43 year old parent was with her, one child was allowed on one wasn't? 4 lifeguards all about the age of 16 baffles me, will definitely stick to northallerton it's the best one waves slide kids can play jump around have fun on fun sessions it's in the name, worth it so much more we left Knaresborough early today as kid were bored in the little bit of water they can play in at the side of the inflatable so many people too so can't swim or play terrible set up waste of money won't be going back! Crying child for a hour who is learning to swim and is trying hard and your lifeguards just knocked confidence and raided your eyebrows accident waiting to happen

Nice heated small pool, daughter loved slide. Attentive , and well controlling life guards , clean changing rooms.

If I could give zero stars I would. Truly terrible customer service. Listen to a recorded message and then the call ends with no chance to speak an actual human being, only to be redirected to a useless chat bot. Does anyone in the authority actually test their arrangements to check they work?!?

Can’t even go in as there’s never any parking. Tried a weekend and a weekday. The bin storage needs relocating to add extra spaces. The council should consider turning some of the grass/park area next door into a car park.

On a day in knarsborough I visited the pool. For a lane swim fully enjoyed it only me and one other man in all the staff are friendly and very hard working they all seemed very happy even when scrubbing drains which I've done in past and it's not a great job to do I will definitely return and I'll try the cafe next time x

Good changing facilities. Pool temperature just right for an energetic swim.