Mother Shipton's Cave

It was our first time as a family visiting MSC and we had the most magical time. We've done most of the Christmas/Santa experiences around North Yorkshire and this has been one of our favourites. The event was fully booked, but it didn't feel too busy at all, we didn't have to wait/queue for anything, other than a short wait for Santa (but this was in a heated teepee with lots for the kids to look at and places to sit, so wasn't an issue at all). There were thousands upon thousands of fairy lights, which made the whole place look magical in the dark. We arrived mid afternoon so we were able to see everything in both the light and dark (which I really recommend). The attention to detail was gorgeous - the cabins to write the letter to Santa and make your reindeer food were beautifully decorated. You could also write a wish and hang on the wishing tree and kiss under the mistletoe. Lots of lovely photo opportunities. In terms of price, we didn't feel it was overpriced for what we enjoyed/received. The pricing felt worth it and fair 😌 One tiny thing for MSC to consider for future years - it would be handy for the children to receive their gift in a paper bag. Our son guessed what he would be receiving from Santa within minutes of us being there as he saw every other child carrying the same lovely, white owl teddy. Not only could bags have hidden the present, but also kept them safe from continuously being dropped on the muddy floor 🙈 we came home with two rather dirty owls. Nothing major, but would be good for them to consider providing in the future. Overall, we highly recommend the Christmas experience here and will definitely return.

Went for the Xmas experience and had a great time. Was warmly welcomed at the entrance by the kiosk staff, putting us in the festive mood. Then it’s a lovely walk by the river into the forest area where there’s tipis and huts, nice lights and displays. Food trucks, Santa’s sleigh etc. we went to see Santa and the elves were great, really played the part. Meeting Santa and as lovely for our daughter. She was not sure to begin with but he brought her round and she loved it. Toasted some marshmallows on the fires. Then walked along to the gift shop reading about mother shipton. The gift shop was ok, quite small but some random things in there and some things weren’t badly priced.

Went for a birthday treat as visiting the area and as a couple with a dog. The place was busy but not overly and had a great family feel. We wish we could have taken our kiddies here when younger, they would have loved this. We enjoyed the Halloween experience and so good to have somewhere that is dog friendly. Loved the autumnal walk and pretty lights. The queue for the hot chocolate and drinks was large so would be nice to have two venues for refreshments but people bought their own as well so we could have planned to do this. Lovely outdoor walk with the dog and interesting site. Poor mother shipton and her 15 year old mum, what a life. When you think about it a poor bullied young woman who made the best of her tragic life and now we visit the cave she lived in. The sites not that deep though lol so it is child friendly in presentation, but as an adult visiting it's quite thoughtful. I love the history and that it's been visited for so many years. Worth a trip, and dog friendly. Thanks

A beautiful gem, the living history. The forest walk is amazing, throughout the whole year. The peak is Halloween: amazing programs, kind and helpful staff members. The waterfall and its stoney effects on artifacts is world unique phenomenon, lovely gift shop. Ideal for couples, families (with pram, elderly people or doggos). Parking lot is big enough: simply must visit, to make life memories.

Well it’s been many years since I last went and initially I found the price off putting. However; I just had the most amazing day and would highly recommend it to families. I got there early so was able to park inside the facility, but there is a big car park just across the road. I loved that the walk was atmospheric. It is quite a walk so heed the advice and wear comfortable shoes, also because the wishing well and cave area are quite damp and wet. There is quite a few steps, but the great thing is there are covered stroller parking spots! There is an amazing playground, where my kids would have had a blast. There is also a lovely cafe run by the wonderful Diana, a gift shop with Alex, and Peter at the gate was a fountain of information. They were setting up for a Halloween Event that I’m sad I can’t attend. £39 a car load of up to 5 people is extremely reasonable- definitely a day trip that all would enjoy. Skeletons and witches and spiders are all welcome. Absolutely a day to remember and an honour to learn more about Mother Shipton. What a sad story…. Oh, and Diana thanks for bringing a #SconeAsInGone lady. Those other two say it the wrong way!!