My sister-in-law had Friday (02.08.2024) off and once more generously spent the day with us. Knaresborough is not far from Ripon, and since my sister had never been and my last (and so far only) visit was back in 2013 and did not quite turn out as intended, I suggested we go there.You can read about my 2013 visit here.
It was yet another beautiful sunny day, and hardly surprising, the town was very busy. We parked just a little outside the centre and then walked towards the market square at a leisurely pace, spending some time at the newly opened, volunteer-run history/information centre.
For something curious, look up Frozen Charlotte on wikipedia (hint: it is not a dish!).
It was lunch time, and after browsing Ye Oldest Chymist Shoppe (nowadays mainly selling sweets and gifts), we went upstairs to the Lavender Rooms for something to eat. Their leek, apple and cheese quiche was delicious, and their elderflower mist perfectly refreshing.
 |
| The old chemist shop is on the ground floor, the Lavender Rooms are upstairs. |
 |
| Just one of many picturesque places we passed. |
Knaresborough is famous for its railway viaduct (among other things), and from the park around the ruined castle one has a great view of it.
Eventually, we made our way down to the bottom of the deep gorge and set off on a pleasant walk along the banks of the Nidd. The further away from the centre we came, the more beautiful were the houses. Some were big enough to be called mansions, and we each found our own favourite. We love looking at houses and gardens - not out of a malicious wish to pry on folks, but much like window shopping or visiting a gallery. At some point, we had to stop ourselves and turn back - we could have gone on and on. Cakes and tea/coke at The Riverside Café were next. Fortified, we climbed up the steps back into town, passing the train station and looking at more houses and shops along the way.  |
| Knaresborough station |
Back in Ripon, we had a little rest followed by tea/coffee on the bench in front of the cottage. A few last bits and bobs for the kitchen were needed, and on the way back, we dropped in at St. Wilfrid’s, the church opposite the cottage.Before starting on our evening meal, we went for a short stroll.
Knaresborough was really nice. Although very busy, the general atmosphere was pleasant, not stressful, even down by the river where many families with kids went boating. We will certainly come again, and maybe not wait another 11 years to do so.
I am surprised that you did not mention Old Mother Shipton who - according to legend - lived in a cave by the river. There's also the petrifying well down there. I remember seeing it when I was eight or nine years old and found the notion of turning everyday items into stone most thrilling.
ReplyDeleteWe didn‘t visit the cave, but opted for the other direction of the path along the river. But I do know about the legend and the petrifyinf well. There is loads more I could have mentioned, such as the bed race or the many painted-on windows and doorways dotted around town.
DeleteDrat! I just wrote a comment and published it. It may have gone to "Spam".
ReplyDeleteNo worries. I always check the spam folder, and have just rescued your original comment from there.
DeleteNice photos by the way. The view to the bridge over the Nidd has become an iconic scene. Are you being sponsored by "Welcome to Yorkshire"? You are helping to boost tourism in this magnificent county. You and your anonymous sister have done so well with the weather this year.
DeleteIf Welcome to Yorkshire wish to sponsor me, I‘ll be happy to visit more often. I‘d also offer some behind the scenes features. Of course a chauffeur would have to ferry me to all those places hard to get to by train or bus.
DeleteThe weather was of course part of the arrangement. We always click the sunshine option when we book our cottage.
It does look like a fun place to visit. I clicked on your photos to get a better look and you did a terrific job of getting some lovely details. I especially like the views from way above with the flowers in the foreground. Really nice, Meike!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ellen! We really enjoyed it, too.
DeleteOh dear, that Frozen Charlotte doll- what a sad thing! The train station is making me "homesick"; it reminds me of the one in Eastbourne. Your photos look so lovely, what a pretty place.
ReplyDeleteIt is a lovely place, of course made even lovelier by the weather which was again perfect for a day out.
DeleteThere's a reason why they call Yorkshire God's own country! Glad you enjoyed your time here.
ReplyDeleteThank you, L. It truly is a beautiful part of the world, and the friends I have made there and of course the family make it especially so.
DeleteI imagine you are well on your way home now. I have emjoyed following your week in Yorkshire. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThank you for reading, Rachel!
DeleteI was home on Monday evening a little after 9:30 pm. The last two days I have not yet blogged about will follow.