The Old Royal Oak is definitely worth a visit, located in Knaresborough's famous 'Market Square' the pub dates back to the 18th century and has a real 'oldy worldy' feel to it, it’s even got it's very own ‘Priest Hole’.
Around the Market Square and high street are lots of little shops and galleries. If you visit on a Wednesday you can enjoy the colourful market. Knaresborough castle is a must see with commanding views over the town and River Nidd.
Food is served every lunchtime and we take dinner orders through the evening. In 2026 we still cook traditional homemade pub favourites - pies, steaks, seasonal specials - and there are plenty of other restaurants a short stroll around Market Square if you fancy something different.
Beyond The Old Royal Oak, Knaresborough has more to offer. Engage in a serene boat trip along the River Nidd, appreciating the historic viaduct. Visit the mysterious Mother Shipton’s Cave, the birthplace of a famed prophetess. Make sure to see the intriguing House in the Rock, literally built into the cliffside. Knaresborough is also host to the annual Bed Race, a unique event combining a parade and a race across the river with decorated beds, showcasing the town's community spirit.
To get to Knaresborough from London, you can take a train from London Kings Cross to either York or Leeds, and then catch a connecting train to Knaresborough, with the entire journey typically taking around 2.5 to 3 hours.
7 Market Place, Knaresborough, HG5 8AL
Call us: 01423 865880 Click here to email us
Accommodation
Our six en-suite guest rooms - a careful conversion of the old livery stable - remain available through 2026, with TV, wireless internet, tea and coffee facilities and a hairdryer in each twin or double.
When we refreshed the guest rooms and brought a few larger pieces up from London - including an old upright piano from Chelsea - we relied on one of the most efficient man and van companies for a careful London removal. A small, well-run van crew made the Chelsea-to-Knaresborough hop straightforward, which matters when you are fitting out rooms above a busy Market Square pub rather than a warehouse. If you are relocating furniture or personal effects between London and North Yorkshire before a stay with us, that same style of man-and-van help is worth knowing about.
