Mother Shipton’s Cave is England’s oldest paid tourist attraction, dating all the way back to 1630! It began when people started travelling to see the birthplace of the legendary prophetess Mother Shipton and the mysterious Petrifying Well. Visitors were fascinated by the strange natural phenomenon and the folklore surrounding Mother Shipton, and it’s been a beloved destination ever since.
Here at Mother Shipton’s Cave, you can visit the very birthplace of the legendary prophetess herself. Her mother, Agatha Sontheil, was cast out by society and gave birth alone in the cave on a dark and stormy night in 1488. Visitors can explore the magical woodland that Mother Shipton once roamed, witness the incredible natural phenomenon of the Petrifying Well, where everyday objects slowly “turn to stone”, and make a wish in our enchanting Wishing Well. We’re a truly unique attraction that blends history, myth, and natural wonder like nowhere else.
Did you know that we have a wide variety of Petrified Items down in our museum and Cabinets of Curiosities? Over the years, a shoe of Queen Mary’s has been petrified under the waters of the Petrifying Well, as well as Agatha Christie’s handbag, John Wayne’s hat, and even a pair of underpants from Jonathan Ross, just to name a few! But the magic doesn’t stop there – we also hang little teddy bears and witches on the Petrifying Well, which are later sold in our gift shop, meaning visitors can take home their very own piece of petrified magic!
We love how Knaresborough is steeped in incredible history, and its breathtaking landscape feels like something straight out of a fairytale. From artisan coffee shops and delicious local produce in the square, to the vibrant markets, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. When you’re sat up at the castle, gazing out over the River Nidd, the iconic viaduct, and the ancient remnants of Knaresborough Forest, and of course Mother Shipton’s Cave, you can’t help but feel lucky to be part of such a magical and meaningful corner of England.
