Historic North Yorkshire pub named after town's icon reveals reopening date

The exterior of the pub as it is now. (Image: Mother Shipton Inn)

A historic North Yorkshire pub named after an iconic figure in the town it is based in has announced a re-opening date.

The Mother Shipton Inn at Low Bridge, Knaresborough, has been closed for several weeks as it undergoes a major renovation after another change of management.

Its new general manager Matthew Chapman previously managed The Stansfield Arms in Apperley Bridge, near Bradford.

Matthew is currently recruiting for staff, and on Facebook has described the refurbishment as a ‘transformation.’

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  Mother Shipton Inn before the renovations

(Image: Admiral Taverns)

He also posted: “With new management, a fresh vision and a whole lot of work happening behind the scenes, we’re determined to give The Mother Shipton Inn a completely new lease of life.”

Matthew told the Press yesterday (Tuesday): “We’re planning to reopen to the 24th of August after refurbishment. On the inside of the building, we’ve got a new colour scheme, carpets, and a much needed deep clean.

“There's extensive work outside, including the roof being cleared of debris, some overhanging trees cut back, the exterior of the building repainted in white, new hanging baskets and flower beds, signage, as well as a repaved beer garden and improved pergola.”

He continued: “Once we reopen, we’re excited show off a new menu using local produce, improved level of service and some daily daily offers through the week.”

“As you can imagine, the pub is currently a building site but things are starting to come together.”

The Mother Shipton Inn dates to the 17th Century and was originally built as a gatehouse. It is one of the few Knaresborough pubs situated in a Grade II-listed building.

Mother Shipton

(Image: Mother Shipton Inn)

In the 18th century it became an inn and was named after Knaresborough’s world-famous prophetess Ursula Sontheil, otherwise known as Mother Shipton.

Harrogate and Knaresborough CAMRA said of the venue: “Former 18th century riverside coaching inn, alongside the rear entrance to Mother Shipton's cave. The pub's interior is steeped in history, retaining much of it's original decor and furnishings, including a table once used by Guy Fawkes.”

They also commented: “There are meat hooks studding the ceiling and a poor box is still affixed to the fireplace.”

To apply for jobs, enquire at info@mothershiptoninn.com for further details.

Will you be going to the Mother Shipton Inn? Have you been before? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.