Knaresborough Market Place
A historic Yorkshire market town with a dramatic viaduct, ancient castle ruins, and a vibrant weekly market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market day buzz
Knaresborough Market Place
Best Time
Market day buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Yorkshire market town with a dramatic viaduct, ancient castle ruins, and a vibrant weekly market.
"Knaresborough is a market and spa town steeped in history, with a stunning viaduct and a charming atmosphere."
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best picks at the Wednesday market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Knaresborough has many hills and cobbled streets, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Knaresborough Market
Market Place
A bustling weekly market with local produce, crafts, and unique finds. A true taste of Yorkshire life!
Knaresborough Castle
Castle Top
Explore the ruins of this historic fortress with stunning views over the River Nidd.
Knaresborough Viaduct
River Nidd
An iconic railway viaduct offering a dramatic backdrop and impressive engineering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Day Buzz
Beyond the Market
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best picks at the Wednesday market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Knaresborough has many hills and cobbled streets, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Viaduct
The viaduct is a stunning sight, especially from the river path.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Town
Many cafes and shops welcome well-behaved dogs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Market
Beat the crowds and get the best picks at the Wednesday market.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Knaresborough has many hills and cobbled streets, so wear comfy shoes!
📸 Capture the Viaduct
The viaduct is a stunning sight, especially from the river path.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Town
Many cafes and shops welcome well-behaved dogs.
☕ Cafe Stops
Plenty of charming cafes for a cuppa and cake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Knaresborough for its picturesque charm, historic landmarks like the castle and viaduct, and the lively Wednesday market. The town's medieval streets and riverside setting are frequently highlighted as beautiful and engaging. Some find the hills challenging, and parking can be busy on market days.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Knaresborough is easily accessible by train, with the station a short walk from the Market Place. If driving, there are several car parks available nearby.
Yes, Knaresborough is a charming market town located just 3 miles east of Harrogate, making it a popular day trip destination.
Walking is the best way to explore Knaresborough's historic streets, castle, and market. Be prepared for some hills and steps.
Yes, there are several car parks in Knaresborough, including the main town centre car park near the Market Place.
Absolutely! Knaresborough has a train station with regular services, and local buses also serve the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Market Place and the town itself are free to enter and explore.
The grounds of Knaresborough Castle are generally free to access, offering great views. Some internal exhibitions may have a small fee.
Knaresborough Market is held every Wednesday, typically from around 9 am to 4 pm, though times can vary slightly.
The Knaresborough Christmas Market is a free event for visitors to enjoy.
Knaresborough hosts several events throughout the year, including a popular Christmas Market and the unique annual Bed Race.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of goods, including fresh local produce, baked goods, clothing, handmade crafts, gifts, and more.
Yes, Knaresborough has a great selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants, from traditional tearooms to modern eateries.
The town boasts independent shops selling gifts, homeware, and fashion, particularly around the Market Place.
Definitely! The Wednesday market is a fantastic place to sample and buy local Yorkshire cheeses, meats, baked goods, and more.
Many cafes in Knaresborough are dog-friendly, offering a welcoming spot for you and your furry friend to relax.
📸 📸 Photography Spots
Key spots include the Market Place, the view of the viaduct from the castle grounds or river, and the charming medieval streets.
Excellent viewpoints are from the castle grounds, the river path below, or the bridge itself.
Knaresborough is incredibly photogenic with its historic architecture, dramatic viaduct, and riverside scenery.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the town's charm.
Yes, you can take photos at the market, but be mindful of vendors and shoppers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider a walk along the River Nidd, where you might spot ducks and enjoy the scenery. Many cafes are welcoming to families, and the town's compact nature makes it easy to navigate with little ones. The viaduct is also an impressive sight that can spark children's imagination.
+1🚶♀️ Walkers and Explorers
Don't miss the walk down to the river and the base of the viaduct for different perspectives. The castle grounds also provide excellent walking opportunities with stunning views. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and hilly.
+1🐶 Dog Owners
The town's numerous walking routes, including paths along the River Nidd and through the castle grounds, provide ample opportunities for your dog to stretch its legs. Just ensure your dog is on a lead where required, especially in busy areas like the Market Place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Knaresborough Market
+1Beyond the shopping, the Market Place itself is surrounded by charming independent shops and historic buildings, including the iconic Dressed boutique. It's a perfect spot to start your exploration of Knaresborough, offering a glimpse into the town's enduring appeal. The market's presence adds a lively dynamic to the already picturesque setting.
For those looking for a taste of Yorkshire, the market is an excellent place to sample local delicacies. It's a sensory experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional market day creating a memorable visit.
Exploring Knaresborough's Historic Landmarks
+2The Knaresborough Viaduct is another unmissable sight. This impressive railway bridge spans the River Nidd, creating a dramatic and iconic landscape. Whether you're a fan of engineering or simply appreciate stunning scenery, the viaduct is a must-see. You can get fantastic views from various points around the town, including the castle grounds and along the river.
+1Beyond these major landmarks, Knaresborough's medieval streets and stone staircases offer a warren of discovery. Wandering through these narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time. The town is also known for the legend of Mother Shipton and its spa town heritage, adding layers of intrigue to its already rich history.
+1Seasonal Events and Festivities
Another unique event is the Knaresborough Bed Race, a quirky and much-anticipated annual tradition. Teams race decorated beds through the town, a spectacle that draws crowds and adds to Knaresborough's distinctive character.
These events provide excellent reasons to visit outside of the regular market days, offering a chance to experience Knaresborough's community spirit and vibrant traditions. Planning your visit around these dates can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit