Knaresborough ‘My kind of town’

Knaresborough ‘My kind of town’

The historic market town of Knaresborough in North Yorkshire is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The imposing Norman Castle dates from around 1100. The town grew to service the castle with trade blossomed which led to a market being established. 

Although the market was first mentioned in 1206, the town was not granted a Royal Charter to hold a market until 1310, by Edward II.  

A market is still held every Wednesday in the market square. 

Having moved here in January 2012, I find this market town a fascinating place to walk around. It is full of history and I keep discovering new sights of interest. 

The River Nidd is a tributary of the River Ouse and it flows through the centre of Knaresborough. The river gets its name from the Celtic word for ‘brilliant’.

The viaduct which runs over the river was completed in 1851 and carries trains from York to Leeds. It stands 78ft above the river and each span measures around 56 ft across. It was designed by Thomas Granger, who also worked on the Arthington viaduct just on the outskirts of Pool in  Wharfedale.

Knaresborough Castle dates back to Norman times around 1100. The town grew and started to attract traders to service the castle. During the Civil War the castle was under siege in 1644 by Cromwell and his Roundheads. When the castle fell it was pulled down in 1646 by order of Parliament. Some of the stone was taken by the locals. Today you can find this type of stone in some of the buildings in the centre of Knaresborough.

St John’s Parish Church was built around 1100 and is as lovely inside as it is outside. Such a peaceful and tranquil place to visit.

The Tour de France came through Knaresborough in July 2014 and passed my front door.To celebrate this   Graham Anderton designed cycling sculptures, which are situated near the World’s End public house.

So there we are! A little tour around my town. In fact it's my kind of town - Knaresborough is !!!!