St Robert's Cave

I walked quite a long route from the river along Abbey Road, home to many, ms y very exclusive properties. Luckily I was using Google maps or I would have gone straight past the small opening in the wall as the plaque was partly obscured by a parked car.It’s a short but fairly precarious drop down to the cave accessed by rough steps-not suitable for buggies etc and sensible shoes required. There’s a statue plus a couple information points. The cave is small, very dark and has uneven surface so a torch is advised. Lots of interesting carvings into every surface.

St Robert’s Cave in Knaresborough is a site of considerable historical and cultural significance, offering a rare glimpse into the life of the medieval hermit St Robert, who lived along the River Nidd in the early 13th century. The cave, carved into the cliffside and accompanied by the remnants of a small chapel, provides visitors with an engaging sense of place and context. Its location along the riverside path makes it an appealing stop for walkers interested in local heritage, spiritual history, or simply discovering one of the town’s more unusual landmarks. However, while the historical value of the site is undeniable, the current condition of the cave presents notable challenges for visitors. The interior frequently carries a strong smell of urine, a recurring issue that can detract from the experience and suggests a need for more active stewardship or protective measures. Additionally, the cave is often flooded, especially after periods of heavy rain or elevated river levels, which can restrict access and limit the ability to appreciate its architectural and historical features. These environmental and maintenance concerns are important for prospective visitors to be aware of in advance. Despite these drawbacks, St Robert’s Cave remains a compelling point of interest. Its rugged setting, layered history, and proximity to other scenic elements of the gorge continue to draw those who want to understand more about Knaresborough’s past. With improved conservation efforts, the site could better reflect its historical importance while offering a more comfortable and accessible experience. For now, it remains a place where the impact of time, environment, and human behaviour is evident, but its story is still worth exploring for those prepared for its present condition.

Great place to visit. There is parking for about four cars at the top of the steps and an information board. Halfway down the steps is a statue, then at the bottom an information board of the layout of the cave and information about it. The cave itself is small and dark so take a headtorch! I spent about ten minutes exploring the cave and area around the outside of it, including looking at the river and weir which were near the cave!

Quite well kept and nice little visit

It's just a hole in the side of a cliff and some foundations, only visit if you are passing, visit the café over the other side of the river, amazing views down the valley and of the weir.