Mother Shiptons

Legend has it that Mother Shipton was born in 1488 to her fifteen year old mother, who tried to raise her single-handedly in a cave. Sadly, she was taken from her mother to be raised elsewhere and never saw her mother again. Not only did she have witchlike features, but it is said that she possessed magical powers. She lived her life in that same cave, where she became known as Knaresborough’s Prophetess; a witch. She would study the surrounding forest and make up her own tinctures and remedies from the flowers and herbs that she collected, as well as predicting people’s fortunes for them. You can now visit and explore the cave and surrounding forest to get a sense of the world that is the Legend of Mother Shipton. There is also a shop filled with curiosities to pick up a memento, such as the mythical well water – known for turning folk into stone! An enchanting and highly recommended experience for young and old alike.