Knaresborough
Situated in North Yorkshire, Knaresborough is a historical market and spa town, known best for its viaduct and harbor along the River Nidd. It is a relatively small area, which is ideal for tourists and locals alike to enjoy a day trip.
We did exactly that on a summers day in late June, where a short trip from Leeds allowed us to escape to the charming village. Along with beautiful sunshine and a humming atmosphere, it made for a very cruisey day by the river.
Location
North Yorkshire, England
29km N of Leeds & 27km NW of York
Our Experience:
On our last Saturday in Leeds, on the recommendation of our good friends Dot and Harry, we headed on the train from Burley Park to Knaresborough. We arrived mid-morning, and spent the remaining morning hours following the signs from place to place and then just simply enjoyed the beautiful houses along the river. As we turned back, we heading up to the castle, were we met the castle’s ravens.
After a picnic overlooking the viaduct on the castle grounds, we decided to head back down to the water and stood in line for the Marigold boats. After paying and getting settled in we spent the next hour rowing past the viaduct, past another bridge and then to the furthest part of the river. Towards this end of the river there was a beautiful willow tree that fell over the river, which felt like it fell straight out the little mermaid.
Once the hour was up, we walked the short distance to the Marigold ice-cream shop, where for two pounds a cone we enjoyed some truly delicious scoops whilst sitting by the water. It was then time to head back towards the train station, but not before walking through the town center. There were some absolutely beautiful streets and shops to look at not to mention some wonderful photo opportunities.
Before long, it was time to board the train again back to Leeds, which come late afternoon and due to Northern Line strikes, it was incredibly busy and we had to stand the whole ride home. If you were anywhere in the North of England, we would absolutely recommend Knaresborough as a day trip as the majority of the town can be seen in an afternoon, and there are some good activities and cafés to enjoy.
Points of Interest
Knaresborough Castle:
You can visit the castle grounds for free from 11-4pm during summer (5 April to 10 September) but entry into the interior will cost you a small charge (£3.2 for adult or £2.10 for concession). There are also the castle ravens which are found near the benches overlooking the river during opening times.
Boat Rentals:
There are two boat rental companies to choose from: Marigold Cafe and Boating which has beautiful light blue or wooden boats suitable for 2-4 people. There is also the Knaresborough Blenkhorn's Boat Hire, which has red and green boats suitable for groups of 2-8.
Both are within 200 m of each other, but we found that the Marigold boat hire was a little cheaper and a little cuter for photos.
Mother Shipton’s Cave:
It is known as England's oldest visit attraction which has been open since 1630. For the price of £7.00 for an adult and £5.00 for children you can visit the petrifying well and the cave, you can read about it here.
The Viaduct:
If coming via train, you will pass directly over the viaduct, however once you walk down to the harbor or aboard a boat you can enjoy the viaduct.
Useful Information
Getting to Knaresborough:
Train:
From Leeds
Duration: 49 mins
Times: Every 1/2 hour daily
Prices: ~£9 return (cheaper with railcard).
From York
Duration: ~25 mins
Times: Every hour daily
Prices: ~£7.50 return (cheaper with railcard).
For more info or for train bookings
see: https://www.thetrainline.com
Bus:
From Leeds (Via Harrogate)
Duration: ~1 hour
Times: Regular buses from Leeds City Centre to Harrogate (Bus 36) & then a connection from Harrogate to Knaresborough (Bus X1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1)
Prices: ~£10 return
Information Centre:
The Knaresborough Tourist Information Centre can be found just off the A59, down Market Place & in the Library.