Welcome to Knaresborough Christmas Market. Held annually on the first full weekend in December, this historic market town steps back in time to recreate an unforgettable festive experience for everyone.

The Market Square and surrounding lanes and cobbled courtyards will be filled with delights to arouse your senses. Wander through the streets of Knaresborough and discover bustling stalls and independent shops offering seasonal goods, gifts and delicious locally sourced produce. Pause for a minute to take in the wonderfully festive atmosphere and entertainment.

There are also festive events for all ages throughout the town, including the Mother Shipton's Christmas Experience (pre-booked tickets only) and the stunning Christmas Tree Festival at St John's Parish Church.

FREE Park & Ride

A FREE Park and Ride service is available all weekend from the GSPK car park on Manse Lane (HG5 8LF) to the Chapel Street, next to the Market Square, where parking is very limited. Buses run from 8am - 5.30pm.

Additional paid parking is available at Chapel Street, Fisher Street and York Place council car parks. Parking is limited close to the Market Square due to road closures. We therefore strongly advise using the Park and Ride if at all possible.

Public Transport

Knaresborough is served by regular buses to and from Harrogate. These leave from the bus station next to the Market Place. The number 36 then provides onward travel to Ripon and Leeds.

There are regular train services to and from York and Leeds. Leeds trains run every 30 minutes and York trains run every hour. Find out more at www.northernrailway.co.uk.

Accessibility

The Park and Ride buses are single deckers with the usual access for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

There is a 24 hour disabled toilet at Fisher Street car park behind Sainsbury’s Local and the Bus Station.

Dogs

Whilst Knaresborough is a very dog friendly town, we want your pets to feel safe and content. As the market will be busy, they may be happier staying at home, especially on the Sunday when there is a firework finale.

Firework Finale (Sunday)

There will be a firework display at 4.30pm on Sunday, as usual, which can be seen from any viewpoint which overlooks the river area. Pet owners please note that the display lasts for around 10 minutes. 

St John's Christmas Tree Festival

Visiting the Knaresborough Christmas Tree Festival: from the market square either turn right down Kirkgate in front of Six Poor Folk, or walk down the High Street to visit the shops and cafes on your way. Take the road out of the Market Place down the side of Boots onto the High Street, turn left and then left again by Wetherspoons and the post box. Turn right at the end of the road and this will take you back onto Kirkgate and down to the train station and St John's Church.

ATMs and Cash Access

There are two ATMs in Knaresborough; one at Sainsbury’s Local by the bus station and another one at Tesco Express on the High Street. Most stalls and shops will accept cards, but you are advised to bring plenty of cash, as the machines in town may run out. There is an additional ATM at the Co-op petrol station (HG5 8LH) close to the market Park & Ride car park on Manse Lane.

There is a new Banking Hub on Kirkgate in Knaresborough (the road to the train station down the side of Six Poor Folk and Appleton's Butchers). We have made a special arrangement with the staff to open for counter services between 9am - 5pm on both Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December. Customers will be able to withdraw cash and pay cash and cheques in over the counter. Businesses and market traders will also be able to access change for their tills.