A POPULAR North Yorkshire attraction that dates back to the 1600s is celebrating two achievements this week.

Mother Shipton’s Cave, which has been open since 1630, was ranked second on The Daily Mail’s ‘Ten Great Days Out to Have this Summer’ and has also been named as a finalist in the Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards.

Visitors to the Knaresborough attraction are told the story of the famous Yorkshire prophetess who was born in a cave beside the River Nidd in 1488.

They can see the Petrifying Well with cascading water that turns objects to stone, according to local legend.

Fiona Martin, owner of Mother Shipton’s, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for this prestigious award and to have been mentioned by the Daily Mail as one of ten great days out in the UK.”

The cave is believed to be the oldest tourist attraction in England and as well as offering visitors a wealth of historic and mythical appeal, the attraction also has a large adventure playground and themed events during school holidays.