Local independent shops Zigzag Cards & Gifts (opposite Tesco Express), Fliss & Ivy and Twig & Ink at Wild Orchid are a must visit for cards, Christmas gifts and clothing, whilst Corrine Hide also has a great selection of quality leather goods. If you fancy a pie or sweet treat, look no further than the ever popular Hirst's Bakery.

(Twig & Ink)

Further up the High Street opposite the bus station, you'll find award winning holistic crystal shop The Crystal Buddha, retro Pear Records, boutique lingerie and swimwear shop Sheer Bliss and the new Knaresborough Heritage Centre (exhibitions, gift shop, tourist information, 10am - 4pm). 

Wander down the High Street and you'll pass The Music Bank (a must visit for any guitar or music lovers), Wilkinsons Butchers (another source of excellent pies!), St Vincent's and Yorkshire Eyewear (with a great range of sunglasses and bridal eyewear), as well as popular cafe No Place Like Home, tapas bar Berry's Tavern and 1858 Bar & Restaurant. 

Newly opened Bonbon has a wide range of traditional sweets (perfect for stocking fillers), whilst Nourish and Nosh holistic pet shop can help you out with gifts for your furry friends. Want to look party ready this festive season, then head to Hello Gorgeous boutique further down the High Street in the former Greenwood's Solicitors premises.

After all that shopping, Carriages Bistro (with indoor and outdoor seating) is the perfect place to unwind, whilst Knaresborough's Exotic Pet Rescue Centre is a great place to take the children.

Thanks for supporting Knaresborough businesses this festive season.

To visit the St John's Christmas Tree Festival and Knaresborough's Victorian railway station from the High Street, turn left in front of Wetherspoons and then right down Kirkgate to the pedestrian crossing over the tracks.