[Sparkologist]

Have you considered going to Knaresborough for a day out Kipax. It takes just over an hour to get there. It is often overlooked, because of its close proximity to the larger attractions of Harrogate and York.

The most famous point of note of Knaresborough, is Old Mother Shipton's Cave. It is a cave and petrifying well, rich in local folklore. It incorporates a small museum and a 3/4 mile walk through woodland alongside the River Nidd. The prices for this are a little steep, at £4.95 per adult and £3.75 per child, but a family ticket covering 2 adults and 2 children can be had for £14.95; this also provides all day parking at no extra cost. the most enjoyable part of this sojourn is the stroll back down the opposite bank of the river, past an Italian Gelato Shop, which sells some exotic flavours of ice-cream, (the rum & raisin comes highly recommended).
At the eastern end of the walk is Old Mother Shipton's Inn. This is a child friendly pub, with a large secluded beer garden out the back. Traditional Sunday lunch is served alongside an extensive food menu. They also have on tap a decent range of real ale, including Theakston's Old Peculiar.
All the points of interest are well signposted and it is easy to navigate around the town.
I would imagine that market day is one of the best days to visit; Wednesday I do believe.
On the opposite side of the road to the main entrance Old Mother Shipton's cave is Henshaw's Arts & Crafts Centre.

More information about Knaresborough can be found at: http://www.knaresborough.co.uk/.
This site is very informative, and has lots of links to items of interest; it sells Knaresborough very well