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A PRETTY attraction that goes back more than 170 years has been praised for it's amazing views - and is set to be even more popular this year.

Built in 1851, the Knaresborough Viaduct is the main sight of the town of Knaresborough.

An 173-year-old attraction is found in one of the UK's prettiest towns
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An 173-year-old attraction is found in one of the UK's prettiest townsCredit: Alamy
Knaresborough Viaduct opened in 1851, after a three-year delay caused by it falling apart
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Knaresborough Viaduct opened in 1851, after a three-year delay caused by it falling apartCredit: Alamy
Trains connect the town of Knaresborough to Harrogate
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Trains connect the town of Knaresborough to HarrogateCredit: Alamy

Despite originally planning to open in 1848, it collapsed as it was nearing completion, which delayed it by three years.

Connecting Knaresborough to Harrogate, the 80ft viaduct still has a fully operational train line running along it.

The Grade II listed structure is often compared to a fairytale or something from a storybook.

One previous tourist said: "The most stunning view of anything. The viaduct, still in use, is the most picturesque view."

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Another agreed: "This place is even more beautiful than I had dared to imagine."

While the best views are found on the cliffside, many choose to paddleboard or kayak beneath the arches on the River Nidd.

In 2021, a house beneath the viaduct went on the market for £695k.

The three bedroom house overlooks the River as well as the towering structure.

And nearby is the oldest attraction in England, dating back hundreds of years.

Mother Shipton's cave goes as far back as 1488, and is said to be the home of a witch who could tell the future.

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Believed to have predicted events such as the Great Fire of London in 1666 and the Spanish Armada, Mother Shipton died in 1561.

And the town of Knaresborough is expected to be popular this year.

Research conducted by holiday rentals site  has released new data detailing destinations in the UK to be big in 2024, and it included Knaresborough.

The town castle has even been used by royalty, including King Henry I and Edward II.

It's also often named one of the prettiest towns in the UK, and most Instagrammable.

Here are some other old attractions in the UK you can visit - or are set to reopen

The Leas Lift

Folkestone's 138-year-old funicular hopes to reopen next year.

The Grade-II listed Leas Lift opened in 1885, but closed in 2017 due to a problem with the brakes.

A £6.6million renovation hopes to restore them by next year.

Moseley Road Baths

First opening in 1907, Mosely Road Baths in Birmingham is set to reopen next year.

The 117-year-old Edwardian building has kept many of it's features but was forced to close last year ahead of the £15.5million renovation.

A new cafe, gym and wellbeing hub hope to open by spring 2025.

Rochdale Town Hall

Dating back to 1871, Rochdale Town Hall is reopening this spring after a huge renovation.

The four year, £20million renovation restored many of the original features, as well as has opened new spaces and rooms

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A new restaurant a visitor attraction will also open.

You can hire kayaks and paddle boards by the viaduct
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You can hire kayaks and paddle boards by the viaductCredit: Alamy

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