Folklore & woodland / KNARESBOROUGH

Mother Shipton’s Cave and Petrifying Well

Follow a woodland attraction to the cave associated with Mother Shipton’s legend and the well where mineral-rich water coats hanging objects. The contrast between folklore and the visible natural process gives families something to talk about, while the longer park walk and adventure play can fill much of a morning.

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Historical 1974 black-and-white photograph of hanging objects at Knaresborough’s Petrifying Well — Photo: Dr Neil Clifton

Before you go

This is chiefly an outdoor woodland visit. The cave and well require three flights of steps, so check suitability before buying a ticket or promising those stops to children.

The practical details

Where to find it: Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: General 2026 opening runs daily through 1 November; later seasonal events have separate dates and terms. Advance booking is essential for bank holidays, Halloween and Christmas. Select the right pedestrian/group/car ticket. Entry and exit are at High Bridge only, and attraction parking cannot be used for a separate town visit. Payments inside are card-only.
Access and getting around: The cave, well and museum/shop are reached by steps, with no wheelchair or pushchair access. Handrails and rest areas are provided; leave pushchairs in the designated shelter. Woodland paths are undulating and uneven. Ask the operator about current parking arrangements and use its access guide to assess the visit.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Allow time for the woodland and a picnic. Adventure playground opening depends on weather and it is closed during the Christmas event and quiet season. Take sturdy footwear, waterproofs and a suitable way to carry a younger child if you intend to use the steps.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 2–3 hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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