Knaresborough, a market town in North Yorkshire, was the primary filming location for the Sky Original Christmas film Tinsel Town, starring Kiefer Sutherland, Rebel Wilson, and Danny Dyer. The town, set along the River Nidd, features a cobbled high street, stone cottages, and cosy pubs that made it a fitting backdrop for the festive production.
A Festive Film Set
The production took place last year, and while the town is already decorated with Christmas trees and fairy lights during the festive months, the filming meant residents could enjoy the merry setting for longer. Di Watson, shopkeeper at Knitting Pretty, said at the time: "The town is buzzing with excitement. Knaresborough is a unique, beautiful, friendly town and we're delighted to be part of this."
This was not the first time Knaresborough has been used for a Christmas film. The town also featured in A Very British Christmas, with its narrow streets, castle ruins, pubs, and cafés used to set the festive scene.
Why Visitors Love It
Visitors have praised Knaresborough for its 'fairy-tale atmosphere', thanks to its stone cottages, chequered facades, and buildings with exposed beams and uneven floors. It has also been named one of the most beautiful towns in the UK.
The town centre, perched on cliffs overlooking the river, offers independent shops for Christmas gifts, cosy cafés, and traditional pubs. A weekly market takes place every Wednesday, and the annual Christmas market will be held around the historic Market Place on Saturday, 5 and Sunday, 6 December.
Landmarks and Attractions
Knaresborough is also known for its railway viaduct, which spans the Harrogate line across the River Nidd with four arches. Knaresborough Castle, a ruined fortress above the river, offers views and a Courtroom Museum with history spanning over 900 years.
Other notable sites include the medieval Chapel of Our Lady, Bebra Gardens, the World's End pub with a terrace overlooking the river, and the Marigold Cafe & Boating. The town is also home to Mother Shipton's Cave, described as 'England's oldest tourist attraction', welcoming guests since 1630, where visitors can explore the cave and make a wish at the Petrifying Well.
