Seasonal Opening Hours
General Admission 2026
Open daily from 28 March to 1 November 2026 (excluding 13 June for the Knaresborough Bed Race).
Peak Times
Off-peak Times
Event Dates 2026
Online booking is recommended for events and essential for Bank Holidays, Halloween and Christmas.
Admission & Prices
2026 Prices
Off-peak
When: Term-time weekdays
Car or group (up to 5): £35
Additional Passenger / Individual pedestrian: £12
Under 2s: Free
Peak
When: Weekends, Bank Holidays and events (Easter, May Half Term, Summer, Halloween)
Car or group (up to 5): £42
Additional Passenger / Individual pedestrian: £16
Under 2s: Free
Motorhomes are not permitted.
Online booking is recommended for events and essential for Bank Holidays, Halloween and Christmas.
Experience Natural Beauty and Family Fun
Welcome to Mother Shipton's Cave. There's something for all ages to enjoy, history everywhere you look, and plenty of magic to be found in this ancient woodland!
Accessibility
The Cave and Petrifying Well in Mother Shipton’s Park are both natural rock formations, situated in the centre of a mile-long, woodland park. Access can only be gained via three sets of twenty-five steps. Two sets you could describe as ‘standard’, like stairs in a shopping centre. The other set is considerably shallower. All steps are outside and have handrails. There are rest areas between with seats provided. The attraction, however, may not be suitable for people with impaired mobility. There is no access for pushchairs for these steps, pushchairs must be parked at the bottom of the steps under the shelter provided or bring a sling if possible. There is no wheelchair access. We do not have blue badge parking. For more information please download the accessibility document.
A Dog Friendly Attraction
At Mother Shipton's, we welcome dogs to enjoy our park alongside their owners, providing a fantastic experience for all.
Treats for Your Canine Companions - We go the extra mile to cater to our four-legged visitors. Refreshments specially crafted for dogs are available, including delightful Puppuccinos and tempting Doggy Ice Cream.
Dogs on a lead are welcome in all areas of the Mother Shipton’s park, apart from the adventure playground and the Museum & Gift Shop, with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs.
Please note that due to the unique setup of our Christmas event, dogs are not permitted on site during this event, with the exception of Guide/Assistance Dogs.
Food and Drink
Indulge in a delightful array of refreshments at Mother Shipton's, where we offer a selection of hot drinks, hot dogs, soup, pies, soft drinks, cakes, ice creams, and more. Fuel your exploration with delicious treats.
Our signature Black Vanilla ice cream is to die for!
We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options, please contact our team for advice on dietary requirements.
Experience Scenic Picnics with Stunning Views
Discover picturesque picnic spots with breath-taking views of the charming town of Knaresborough. Our park provides plenty of benches and scenic areas where you can enjoy your picnic amidst nature's beauty.
No matter the weather, we've got you covered! Enjoy your picnic in our convenient covered seating areas, ensuring an enjoyable experience even if the weather doesn't cooperate.
Please note that no cash payments can be accepted within the attraction, only card transactions can be taken.
Adventure Playground
We have a large adventure playground - unleash your inner adventurer! Access to the adventure playground is subject to weather conditions. Unfortunately there is no access to the Adventure Playground during our Christmas Event or Quiet Season.
Facilities
We have toilets at the main entrance including baby changing, and portable toilets in the middle of the attraction including an accessible toilet.
Gift Shop & Museum
Step into a treasure trove filled with enchanting curiosities, delightful souvenirs, and captivating magical items in our Gift Shop. Please note that no cash payments can be accepted within the attraction, only card transactions can be taken. Take a piece of the magic home with you or find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your experience.
Marvel at our unique museum displays, showcasing petrified celebrity items that will leave you in awe. Discover the extraordinary and dive into the stories behind these fascinating artifacts.
In addition, our exhibition space is currently featuring a remarkable collection of artwork by the talented local artist, Mister Finch. Don't miss the opportunity to browse our captivating Museum & Gift Shop during your visit.
Visiting Knaresborough
Mother Shipton's Cave is located in Knaresborough, a historic and picturesque North Yorkshire market town. Knaresborough's railway station is just five minutes walk from the entrance and frequent buses stop near the main entrance. Knaresborough is a 1 hour train journey from Leeds. Please be aware that there is only one entrance and exit to Mother Shipton's, on High Bridge in Knaresborough. Parking is only for visiting Mother Shipton's, visitors cannot park on site and walk out into the town of Knaresborough. We recommend parking in an alternative car park such as Conyngham Hall should you wish to explore the town after your visit.
Where to Stay
There are lots of great places to stay near Mother Shipton's Cave in Knaresborough. Immerse yourself in the quaint charm of this historic town with a stay at one of its beautiful, quirky, and independent guest houses. Many of these accommodations are dog-friendly, perfect for exploring the area with your furry friends.
For a convenient and welcoming stay, consider booking a room at The Knaresborough Inn. Located just a stone's throw away from the entrance to Mother Shipton's Cave, this inn offers parking, dog-friendly rooms, and family-friendly accommodations. Indulge in delicious food and drink, soak in the beautiful décor, and enjoy a memorable stay in Knaresborough.
Large group & school booking
Special discount rates apply for school visits. A visit links well with Key Stages 1 to 3 in history, science, geography and English. Please contact us for more information or to arrange a visit.
Award-Winning and Supported by
