After 500 years Mother Shipton’s Cave wins legal battle in Knaresborough to trademark its name
An award-winning Knaresborough location which is England’s oldest paid visitor attraction has made history by finally winning its legal battle to trademark its own name.
For the first time in its nearly 600-year history, Mother Shipton’s Cave has secured comprehensive legal protection for its unique brand.
As a result it has been able to open its own shop online this week with a full rebrand.
The launch forms part of a wider transformation that includes a new visual identity, refreshed storytelling, and trademark protection for the Mother Shipton’s name and associated products.
The rebrand positions Mother Shipton’s Cave, which boasts thousands of visitors each year, as a contemporary folklore experience rooted in five centuries of legend.
The refreshed imagery presents a modern interpretation of the iconic prophetess while remaining true to the ancient woodland, the mystical Petrifying Well, and the rich storytelling that draws visitors from around the world.
Fiona Martin, owner of Mother Shipton’s Cave, said: “Our trademark protection and our new online shop move us into the next chapter of the site’s story.
“The online shop lets people take home a piece of the magic, wherever they are.
"Everything has been carefully designed to celebrate the magic and history of Mother Shipton in a way that feels authentic and contemporary.”
The process to achieving ownership of its own brand saw Fiona Martin work with trademark specialists at full-service law firm, Ward Hadaway which included partner and chartered trademark attorney and head of intellectual property, Bill Goodwin, trademark attorney Sonia Burgess, and support from trademark paralegal Jowita Koloda.
The visitor attraction has now officially trademarked the name ‘Mother Shipton’s Cave’ as well as the logos featuring the name "Mother Shipton's", meaning they cannot be used by other individuals or businesses.
The trademark extends to some of its most unique retail items, including its Petrified Teddy Bears, which will be available as part of Mother Shipton’s online shop.
Shoppers will also find a full range of souvenirs celebrating the reimagined illustration of Mother Shipton, sweets and biscuits and exclusive ghost ornaments adorned with Mother Shipton's famous prophecies.
Shop online at: www.mothershipton.co.uk.