Knaresborough

Knaresborough is a historic market town and civil parish located in North Yorkshire, England. It is situated on the River Nidd, and has a rich and varied history that dates back to the medieval period and beyond.

Early History

• Pre-Norman Conquest: The area around Knaresborough has been settled since at least the Iron Age, as evidenced by archaeological finds. The name "Knaresborough" itself is thought to derive from "Cenheard's fortress" or "fortified place."

Medieval Period

• Norman Conquest: After the Norman Conquest of 1066, Knaresborough became strategically important. The town's castle was initially built around 1100 by a Norman baron, likely Serlo de Burgh.
• Knaresborough Castle: The castle was significantly expanded in the 12th century. It served as a royal residence and fortress, notably under King John who used it as a hunting lodge. The castle was further fortified during the reign of King Edward I.
• St. Robert of Knaresborough: A notable hermit, Robert Flower (later known as St. Robert), lived in a cave by the River Nidd in the early 13th century. He became famous for his piety and miracles, attracting many visitors during his life and after his death in 1218.

Middle Ages to Early Modern Period

• Pilgrimage Site: By the late Middle Ages, Knaresborough had become a site of pilgrimage due to St. Robert’s Cave.
• Market Town: Knaresborough was granted a market charter in 1310 by King Edward II, which contributed to its prosperity as a trading center.
• Civil War: During the English Civil War, Knaresborough Castle was held for the Royalists but was eventually besieged and taken by Parliamentarian forces in 1644. Following this, the castle was largely dismantled (slighted) in 1646 to prevent its further military use.

18th to 19th Century

• Mother Shipton: The legendary prophetess Mother Shipton is said to have been born in a cave near Knaresborough in 1488. Her prophecies became famous, and Mother Shipton's Cave remains a popular tourist attraction.
• Industrial Era: The town expanded during the 18th and 19th centuries, aided by the arrival of the railway in the 19th century. The Knaresborough Viaduct, built in 1851, is a notable architectural feature that spans the River Nidd.

20th Century to Present

• Tourism and Heritage: Today, Knaresborough is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque views, historical sites, and annual events such as the Knaresborough Bed Race.
• Landmarks: Besides the castle ruins and Mother Shipton’s Cave, other significant landmarks include the Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag, a cave chapel carved into the rock face in 1408, and St. John the Baptist Church, which contains elements dating back to the 12th century.

Notable Figures

• Eugene Aram: A notorious figure from Knaresborough, Aram was an 18th-century philologist and murderer, whose story has been the subject of many literary works.
• Blind Jack: John Metcalf, known as Blind Jack of Knaresborough, was a famous 18th-century civil engineer and road builder, despite losing his sight at the age of six.

Knaresborough's rich history and its blend of natural beauty with intriguing historical sites make it a unique and charming location within North Yorkshire.