Knaresborough
Located at Knaresborough in North Yorkshire, near the River Nidd, Mother Shipton's Cave and Petrifying Well beholds a magical mystery from centuries old.
England's most famous Prophetess, Mother Shipton, lived over 500 years ago (in Henry VIII's reign) and was born in this world famous legendary cave beside the "Petrifying Well". This unique, mysterious Well is a geological phenomenon in itself, as it is rumoured to turn everyday items to stone and the running water is believed to have miraculous healing powers. Formerly known as 'The Dropping Well' and known to be the only one of its kind in England it's a noted fact that 700 gallons (3,200 litres) of water flow over the Well each hour, whatever the weather. It can take a soft teddy bear between 3-5 months to be 'petrified' (turned to stone) by the magical powers of the Well's running waters.
The Cave and Petrifying Well are located within the Estate, which forms part of the mile long remnant of the Ancient Forest of Knaresborough. You can enjoy spectacular views and walks down by the riverside too. The site has picnic areas, two Children's Adventure Play areas and a Gift Shop.
Large Cave to explore
Petrifying Well with stone objects threaded around the top
Riverside Walks
Children's Play Area
Gift Shop - where you can even buy 'Wishing Well Water'
Museum
Picnic areas
Children's Trail Quiz
Schools & Educational Visits welcomed
Group Bookings welcome - discount for party of over 15 people visiting
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times
Adult £6, Children £4 (under 4's go free), Family £18 (2 adults and 2 children, or 1 adult and 3 children. Additional children are £3 each (to max of 3).
Parking all day £2 (as part of admission)
Group bookings - discounts given for groups of over 15 people
Coach Drivers + Couriers free.
Coach Parking free (opposite the site's main entrance)
Feb: weekends only (10am - 4.30pm)
Mar: weekends only (10am - 5.30pm)
Apr 1 - Oct 31 (Hallowe'en): open daily (10am - 5.30pm)
Nov, Dec + Jan: Closed
Use this form to email Mother Shipton's Cave & Petrifying Well directly.
Mother Shipton's Cave & Petrifying Well
Prophesy House
The High Bridge
Knaresborough
HG5 8DD
01423 864 600
Please mention Hello Yorkshire when contacting the property
