Low Bridge
Knaresborough
North Yorkshire
HG5 8HZ
01423 865638
The Mother Shipton is named after the 15th century soothsayer who was born in Knaresborough. She became extraordinarily famous after her lifetime and her prophecies became known across the world. Just along the riverbank from the pub is Mother Shipton’s Cave and its famous dropping well where objects are turned to stone. Remarkably this has been a tourist attraction since 1630.
Many pubs were named after Mother Shipton though only this one and one in Portsmouth remain. This one did have a spell called the Dropping Well but the name changed back in recent years.
The pub dates from the 17th century and is attractively situated next to the River Nidd (photo 1). It has a real rustic look outside with its whitewashed walls and old porch, and the inn sign showing the eponymous prophetess (photo 2). There are several rooms with beams and an attractive garden next to the river. Food is the main draw here and it is very popular with visitors to the nearby cave.
