Nestled on the banks of the River Nidd, Knaresborough is a picture-perfect North Yorkshire town that’s bursting with charm, and it’s a brilliant destination for a family day out. Whether you’re wandering the ruins of Knaresborough Castle, uncovering local stories at the museum, or hiring a rowing boat for a gentle paddle under the viaduct, there’s plenty to keep kids (and grown-ups!) entertained.
Add in a generous helping of cosy tea rooms, tempting ice cream spots, and gorgeous riverside walks, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a fun, easygoing day trip. In this guide, I’ll share our top picks for making the most of Knaresborough with kids, no matter the season.
Parking and Travelling:
There are several short stay car parks in the centre of Knaresborough, including Castle Yard car park, Market Place, Fisher Street and Chapel Street. On sunny days, weekends and school holidays it can be difficult to find a place to park here.
York Place Long Stay car park is slightly further from the centre of Knaresborough but is very cheap to use and has many more spaces. Click here for more information on York Place car park.
Knaresborough is also served by a train station in the centre.
Prams/ Accessibility:
Plenty of Knaresborough is pram friendly though it is quite hilly and there are many cobblestone streets. Most attractions and shops are designed with wheelchair users in mind, though some places can only be accessed via steps, such as the petrifying well at Mother Shipton’s Cave.
Things to do in Knaresborough with kids
1. Castle
Knaresborough Castle is a fun place to explore with kids, full of history and hidden corners. You can peek into the old dungeon, spot medieval graffiti on the walls, and climb the worn stone steps to what’s left of the upper floor. Even though much of it is now in ruins, it’s easy to imagine the Kings and Queens who once stayed there!
2. Museum
Knaresborough Museum is a great little stop for families, with a fun play area full of foam building blocks, hobby horses, jigsaws, and colouring to keep little ones busy. Grown-ups and older kids will enjoy learning about the town’s history too – don’t miss the old stocks and other quirky local finds!
3. Mother Shipton’s Cave
Mother Shipton’s Cave is a magical and slightly mysterious place that’s full of wonder for kids and grown-ups alike. Visit the home of the famous prophetess, see the incredible petrifying well that turns objects to stone, and make a wish at the wishing well. With faces carved into trees and fun themed events during the school holidays, there’s always something quirky and exciting to discover.
4. Row a boat on the River Nidd
Rowing a boat down the River Nidd is a must-do in Knaresborough and a big hit with families. You can hire your own boat from the riverfront and gently paddle beneath the town’s iconic viaduct, taking in the beautiful views along the way. If you’d rather sit back and relax, there’s also a rowing service where someone else does the hard work for you!