Yorkshire has some of the most diverse and striking landscapes of anywhere in the UK, with its rolling countryside, chalk cliffs and ancient woodland. Among its terrain lies a charming town with ‘England’s oldest tourist attraction’.

The beautiful town of Knaresborough, nestled along the River Nidd in North Yorkshire, is steeped in fascinating landmarks and picture-postcard views. Just a 30-minute train journey from Leeds and York, the market and spa town can often get overlooked, but it’s well worth exploring for a blissful day out or weekend escape.

Knaresborough is characterised by steep, narrow medieval streets and stone staircases that weave through the town. Visitors have often described it as having a ‘fairy-tale atmosphere’ with its architecture of quaint stone cottages, checkered facades and buildings of exposed beams and wonky floors.

The town centre, perched on the cliffs above the river, is brimming with independent shops, cosy coffeehouses, traditional pubs and eateries. With a tight-knit community feel, their weekly Knaresborough Market brings residents and visitors together every Wednesday, with local traders offering everything from homeware and plants to fresh fish, fruit, and veg.

A visit to the town, simply to wander along its steep streets and quirky architecture, is enough to warrant a visit, yet its catalogue of landmarks is what draws in crowds. Its most famous attraction is Mother Shipton’s Cave, and it is notably ‘England’s oldest tourist attraction’, having been open since 1630.

It’s also the birthplace of England’s most famous prophetess, with the small cave telling “the story of life and legacy”, and the “unique geological phenomenon of the petrifying well”, as the website states. Found along the riverside, visitors can explore the small cave before making a wish in the famous Petrifying Well, with tales that the water ‘turns items to stone’.

Following a visit earlier this year, one person shared on TripAdvisor: “What a brilliant place to visit. Everything is spotlessly clean and the staff who work there are very friendly. A lovely walk down to the cave, and the history showcased was amazing. So glad we visited! The views across the river were fantastic. £6 each adult to get in, and well worth the price.”

The town is also recognised for its impressive railway viaduct with four magnificent arches that carries the Harrogate line over the River Nidd. On brighter days, the viaduct’s reflection can be seen in the river below, making a striking photo, and many admire the bridge along riverside walks or from the nearby castle ruins.

Knaresborough Castle is another standout attraction in the area, with the ruined fortress overlooking the river for some picturesque vistas. Visitors can wander around the medieval castle and grounds, and visit the Courtroom Museum to learn more about its interesting history dating back more than 900 years.

One visitor to the castle said: “This ancient monument has an absolutely superb location – high up on a cliff and with beautiful grounds that provide a wonderful view down over the town, river and viaduct. These grounds serve as a lovely park area fully open to the public, where you can wander or sit and take in the views with the magnificent castle as a backdrop.”

The tiny medieval Chapel of Our Lady is another key landmark in Knaresborough, along with its tranquil Bebra Gardens, for an afternoon stroll. Further down the river, the inviting World’s End pub that overlooks the River Nidd with a terrace, perfect for those warmer evenings, as well as the charming Marigold Cafe & Boating for that caffeine boost.

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