Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum
Discover medieval history and stunning river views at Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum, a timeless Yorkshire treasure.
Perched dramatically above the River Nidd, Knaresborough Castle is a medieval ruin offering panoramic views, rich history, and a charming museum experience. The adjacent Courthouse Museum reveals Tudor-era justice in an original courtroom. The castle grounds are open year-round for tranquil walks and occasional live events, while the museum and keep provide deeper insights into the site’s royal and civil war past. Family-friendly activities and seasonal tours add to the appeal.
A brief summary to Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum
- Castle Yard, Knaresborough, HG5 8AS, GB
- +441423556188
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the weather before visiting the castle keep, as it may close during wet conditions for safety.
- Purchase a season ticket if you plan multiple visits, valid for both Knaresborough Castle and the Royal Pump Room Museum.
- Explore the Castle Critters activity room for family-friendly crafts and play opportunities.
- Visit the Sally Port tours when available to experience the secret underground tunnels.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well for a full day trip.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Knaresborough Castle is a 10-minute walk from Knaresborough railway station, which has regular services from York and Leeds. Train journeys typically take 20-40 minutes from York. The station and walk are accessible, making train travel a convenient option.
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Car
Driving to Knaresborough Castle is straightforward with parking available at York Place car park (HG5 0AD), about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Parking fees apply, typically around £3-£5 for a few hours. Note that the castle grounds are pedestrian-only.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Knaresborough with nearby towns including Harrogate and Ripon. Bus stops are within walking distance of the castle. Service frequency varies, generally every 30-60 minutes. Check timetables in advance for weekend or holiday schedules.
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Walking
The castle is easily reached on foot from Knaresborough town centre within 10-15 minutes via gentle, paved paths. Terrain is suitable for most visitors, but some uneven surfaces exist within the castle grounds.
Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum
A Medieval Stronghold with Scenic Vistas
Knaresborough Castle, dating back to the 12th century, stands proudly atop a high cliff overlooking the River Nidd. This Scheduled Ancient Monument offers visitors dramatic views of the iconic railway viaduct and the surrounding North Yorkshire countryside. The castle’s ruins evoke the power and strategic importance it held during medieval times, serving as a royal stronghold and a key defensive site through turbulent periods including the English Civil War.Exploring the Courthouse Museum and Tudor Justice
Adjacent to the castle, the Courthouse Museum houses an original Tudor courtroom, providing a fascinating glimpse into the judicial history of Knaresborough. Exhibits detail the workings of local justice and the colorful characters who passed through its doors. This museum complements the castle experience by enriching visitors’ understanding of the town’s social and legal heritage.Year-Round Grounds and Family Activities
The castle grounds are open 24 hours a day, all year round, offering a peaceful park setting enhanced by mature trees and flowerbeds. Families can enjoy the newly renovated Castle Critters activity room, featuring creative workshops, play kitchens, foam building blocks, and LEGO fun. Seasonal Sally Port tours invite visitors to explore secret underground tunnels once used for daring escapes, appealing to history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.Seasonal Access and Visitor Experience
The castle keep and museum operate seasonally, typically open Tuesday to Sunday during summer months and Wednesday to Saturday in winter, with hours adjusted for weather conditions. Entry to the keep may close during wet weather for safety. Admission fees support conservation and include options for adults, children, seniors, and families, with season tickets available for repeat visits. The grounds remain freely accessible year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty at any time.Local Context and Nearby Attractions
Situated just a short walk from Knaresborough town centre and train station, the castle is easily accessible. Nearby attractions include Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well, making the area ideal for a full day of exploration. Local cafes and farm shops provide refreshments, enriching the visitor experience with tastes of Yorkshire hospitality.Preservation and Community Engagement
Owned by the Duchy of Lancaster and maintained by Harrogate Borough Council, Knaresborough Castle is a cherished cultural landmark. The site hosts occasional live musical performances and community events, fostering a vibrant connection between heritage and contemporary life. Conservation efforts ensure that this historic site remains a captivating destination for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mother Shipton's Cave
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St Robert's Cave
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Discover the serene medieval hermitage carved into limestone cliffs, where St Robert of Knaresborough lived and inspired centuries of spiritual pilgrimage.
Plumpton Rocks
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The Stray
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Cold Bath Brewing Co
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Oxford St
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The Little Ale House
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Antiques on High Harrogate
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Essential places to dine
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Quirky Farm Bistro
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THE BLUES BAR - YORKSHIRE TAPAS
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Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall
16.3 km
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Deer Park Hotel Leeds
18.3 km
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Banyan Bar & Kitchen
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La Petite Bar & Restaurant
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The Olive Branch
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Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
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Toby Carvery Chapel Allerton
19.8 km
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The Queens Arms
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The Olive Chapel Allerton
20.0 km
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Bab Tooma Leeds
20.2 km
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Deliziosa
20.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting with indoor and garden seating at Deliziosa, Chapel Allerton’s beloved Italian eatery.
Sukhothai Chapel Allerton
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Karma - Clothing & Gift Boutique
14.6 km
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Oaks
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Unique fashion finds in Roundhay's chic boutique haven—discover curated styles, personalized service, and timeless pieces that define your wardrobe.
Preloved Roundhay
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Unearth pre-loved treasures at this St George's Crypt charity shop in Roundhay, blending thrift hunting with community support in Leeds' leafy suburbs.
Roary and Buddy
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The Collective Revolution
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In Your Dog House Gifts
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The Gifted Blogger
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Glasshouse Gallery
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Tom's House
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Quadrophenia Night
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The Warehouse
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Wire
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The HiFi Club
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The Space
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ULTRA
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly