
One of England’s oldest visitor attractions which
opened to the public in 1630, Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough, Yorkshire contains the only known petrifying spring in England. The cave is the legendary birthplace of a 16th century prophetess, Mother Shipton, England’s answer to Nostradamus. My grandparents used to take me here when I was a kid and since I wished for a bike from the wishing well and then two months later got a bike for my birthday, I was always keen to visit again!
The well water's extremely high mineral content means that everything in its path turns into stone, leaving behind mineral deposits that build up to form a crust of new rock. Visitors to the petrifying well can make a wish by placing their hand in the waters and see all sorts of petrified items hanging from the rock face including shoes, teddy bears, a hat belonging to John Wayne and Agatha Christie’s handbag. Nearby is the Knaresborough viaduct, a museum, parks, riverside walks and boat hire along the River Nidd. A brilliant day out if you like messing about in boats, eccentric quirky places and enjoy a bit of local history.
Mother Shiptons Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire HG5 8DD
+44(0)1423 864600
www.mothershiptonscave.com
Google map: bit.ly/q8m6ax
Brilliant old school fish & chip shop, opens remarkable hours. We've lived here for nearly 10 years but only found it in the last 18 months as it just opens Thurs eve, Fri lunch, Fri eve and Sat lunch. Massive queues, short menu, good prices, run by friendly husband and wife team. Beautiful, careful cooking. Fantastic!
Iles Lane, Knaresborough - just off York Road, 10 minutes walk from Knaresborough train station, or a 2 minute walk from the bus station.
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