History

The ancient Royal Forest of Knaresborough had at least three hunting parks in its bounds and one called Haya Park in the Liberty of Knaresborough. In Knaresborough Forest the three parks were known as Bilton Park, New Park and Haverah Park which featured a John of Gaunt hunting lodge. The parks were enclosed with a park pale to keep in the deer and wild boar for hunting.

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Bilton Park was bounded to the north by the river Nidd and it is said that the trees in this area were reserved for appropriate works to the Castle and town buildings. Bilton Hall is said to be built on and around the ancient hunting lodge for Bilton Park.