Knaresborough is an ancient market and Spa town on the fringe of the Yorkshire Dales, overlooking the River Nidd, and is one of the prettiest towns in North Yorkshire. Its location makes it ideal as a base for touring the stunning countryside of the North Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks. For lovers of history, St John’s Church, Knaresborough House and the now-ruined Knaresborough Castle were built by the Normans in around 1100 AD. Other attractions in the town include Mother Shipton’s petrifying well, the Courthouse Museum, “Ye Oldest Chymist Shoppe in England” which dates back to 1720 and the quirky House in the Rock. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy wonderful walks by the river, cycling, climbing, fishing, boating or just sitting and taking in the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The town centre has many interesting shops and galleries, and there is a colourful and lively market held on Wednesdays. The fascinating, historic cathedral cities of Ripon and York are close by, as are the Spa town of Harrogate, the great stately homes of Castle Howard and Harewood House, the Cistercian Abbeys of Fountains, Rievaulx and Jervaulx, and the castles of Middleham, Bolton and Richmond.
