Mother Shiptons Cave

This is one of those strange tourist trap places that really does have a little magic worth visiting.
The ancient forest of Knaresborough lines the River Nidd and walking along the banks you get a feeling of extreme age and a peace.
There had to be a witch and a wishing well and those are just standards, but the special aspect a bit further down is the waterfall.
Here the local spring drips over a small cliff and picks up the minerals in the earth, quickly transferring them onto objects in the water, turning them to stone.
It must have been difficult to explain 300 years ago, and myths and legends have grown up around the place, but even with the modern awareness, it is entrancing.
The town makes its living off the Mother Shipton myth, but it keeps some of its character in the back streets and pubs, so it will not be a day in the wilderness.

Forget Nostradamus. In Henry VIII’s time we had Old Mother Shipton living in a cave in Knaresborough. She was our greatest prophetess.
Set in wonderful parkland/​woodland she (her statue) sits in her cave and nearby is a petrifying well. The well is hung with all kinds of things like teddies and dolls. clothing etc. all turned to stone
formerly known as the Dropping Well.
They say:
Queen Mary who visited the Cave and the Well in 1923 was so taken with it she took off her shoe and left it to be petrified. It now takes pride of place in our Museum. Items worn by cast from Blue Peter, Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Eastenders are also on display, alongside a flat cap once worn by veteran actor Lionel Jeffries, a handbag belonging to Agatha Christie, and a hat belonging to John Wayne!
There is also a wishing well and museum plus a gift shop and tea room.
All day parking means you can make a day of it and also visit the Castle, weir and HUGE viaduct (where Compo was going to fly in Last of the Summer Wine). In all this day has some great photo opportunities and I took loads but can’t find most of them.
There is also a childrens adventure playground.
In the shop you can buy the book of prophesies and the fascinating history of her life. quite racey!
Take a picnic or eat out. a great day out for families.

Definately worth a visit