Mother Shipton’s Cave

About

Mother Shipton’s is a beloved Knaresborough landmark and England’s oldest visitor attraction, open since 1630. This popular visitor attraction tells the story of Mother Shipton and the Petrifying Well.

Historic Woodland Walk

A picturesque mile-long walk along the River Nidd features the cave where famous Yorkshire prophetess Mother Shipton was born. It is situated next to the Petrifying Well, a unique geological phenomenon. Over hundreds of years curiosity has drawn millions of visitors to the well to see cascading water turn everyday objects to stone - as if by magic.

People around the world visit the park, a remnant of the Royal Forest of Knaresborough with some of the oldest, tallest beech trees in the country.

Who was Mother Shipton?

Mother Shipton was born in a cave in 1488 and grew up around Knaresborough. As she grew older, her prophecies became known throughout England. She foretold the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 and the Great Fire of London in 1666. She made her living telling the future and warning those who asked of what was to come.

Fun for all the Family

Great for all ages, there’s fun for families in the adventure playground, scenic picnic areas, interactive trails and actors during events, and petrified objects displayed in the museum and gift shop. Dogs are welcome in all areas, apart from the playground. Areas of the park have restricted access, click HERE for accessibility information.

2020 Events

Families will be immersed in magic during Pixie Village all Summer, and enjoy a Spooktacular Halloween. Details will be released on the website in due course.

For more information visit our website, where you can also now book your tickets online at a discounted rate!

Book Tickets Online

Opening Times

Season (1 Apr 2020 - 1 Nov 2020)
Day	Times
Monday - Friday	10:00	- 16:30
Saturday - Sunday	09:30	- 17:30
Bank Holiday	09:30	- 17:30

Guide Prices

Tickets must be pre-booked online at this time https://mothershipton.digitickets.co.uk/tickets

Please check the website for special events, up-to-date opening times, and any unforeseen park closures.

Facilities

Booking & Payment Details

Credit cards accepted (no fee)

Catering

On-site light refreshments
Picnic site

Children

Baby changing facilities
Children welcome

COVID-19 Response

Capacity limit
Clear signage
Contactless payment possible
COVID-19 measures in place
COVID-19 risk assessment completed
COVID-19 staff training completed
Deep cleaning between visitors
Face masks required for staff in public areas
Food available during COVID-19 restrictions
Hygiene screens in place
Online booking only
Open now
Outside seating
Pets welcome during COVID-19 restrictions
Regularly sanitised high-traffic areas
Socially distanced spaced seating
Staff required to regularly wash hands
Time limited visits

Groups

Facilities for educational visits
Guided tours for groups - Group visits and guided tours must be booked in advance through telephone or email.

Parking

Free Parking

Property Facilities

Dogs Accepted
Gift shop
Public toilets
Smoking not allowed

Target Markets

Accepts groups
Coach parties accepted

Awards

Yorkshire Awards Visit York Tourism Awards - Finalist 2020 2020

View Map

Public Transport Directions

If travelling by rail or on foot the Main Gate is a 5 to 10-minute walk from Knaresborough train station. Northern Rail offer direct trains to Knaresborough from Leeds and York. Walk down the hill from the station and past the church, then left and over high bridge to the entrance. There is a bus stop at the entrance to Mother Shipton’s with regular buses from Harrogate.

If travelling by car we are located next to High Bridge in Knaresborough on the A59. Use postcode HG5 8DD for satellite navigation.