Knaresborough Forest Day, Thursday 13 August 2026

On August 13th 1770, the rights of the local people to enter the Royal Forest of Knaresborough were removed following the Enclosure Act.  On that date at the Borough Bailiff pub (lately the Commercial) on Knaresborough High Street, the fateful document was signed.   

We are holding a festival this August 13th to celebrate the return of some of the land to the people.  This date has been designated 'Knaresborough Forest Day' by Knaresborough Town Council, and will be celebrated every year, usually as part of FEVA.

Family-friendly and nature-themed activities, music, poetry, arts and crafts.

Activities include:

• Nature quiz

• Basket weaving demonstration

• Green woodworking

• Flower and leaf art

• Soft archery

• Nature meditation

NB This is a free event but there may be a small charge for some optional activities, and some items for sale.

Bring a picnic and a rug!

The festival is taking place on the field on the corner of Bilton Hall Drive and the Beryl Burton cycleway (What3words: ///rapid.blackmail.pirates).

There is no parking on the field or on Bilton Hall Drive, which is a private road. Access is by bus, by bike or on foot from Bilton Hall Drive or the Beryl Burton cycleway.

Please contact us for access arrangements if your mobility is limited.

You can register to give us an idea of numbers to expect. You will also be updated with any changes or if the event were to be cancelled for any reason, but registration is not obligatory - just bring yourselves, your family and friends!

Thank you to Red Kite Perspectives for the top photo of the banner.