About
Follow the yellow brick road to an Emerald Adventure this May Half Term at Mother Shipton’s Cave - an award-winning attraction voted the Best Magical Experience in the York area and Best Overall Attraction in Yorkshire.
Step into a woodland wonderland inspired by the timeless magic of The Wizard of Oz and the spellbinding world of Wicked. Discover enchanting scenes in dazzling pinks and shimmering greens as fantasy and folklore weave their way through the forest.
Meet our mysterious Green Witch of the Forest, the radiant Good Witch of the Glade, and our jolly Scarecrow.
Wander the woodland, uncover spellbinding photo opportunities, and come dressed in your most wonderfully wicked or gloriously good attire. Share your magical moments using #mothershiptons for a chance to win free tickets.
Beyond the half term enchantment, explore England’s Oldest Tourist Attraction, home to the legendary Mother Shipton’s Cave, the Petrifying Well, adventure playground, gift shop and scenic riverside walk.
There’s no place like Mother Shipton’s this May - join us for a spellbinding half term filled with wonder, whimsy, and a little touch of emerald magic.
Mother Shipton’s Cave Opening Hours
Open with reduced hours and discounted pricing during the Quiet Season, selected dates from 3rd January to 22nd March, weather permitting.
Open every day from 28th March to 1st November (excluding 13th June for the Knaresborough Bed Race):
Events*/Weekends/Bank Holidays: 9:30am – 5:30pm (last admission at 4:00pm).
Term Time Weekdays: 10:00am – 4:00pm (last admission at 3:00pm).
Online booking is recommended for events, essential for bank holidays and Christmas.
Access to the Adventure Playground is subject to weather conditions.
*Events 2026:
Easter: 28th March – 19th April
May Half Term: 23rd May - 31st May
Summer Holidays: 18th July - 6th September
Halloween: 24th October - 1st November
