Knaresborough - with it’s stunning views. Knaresborough is the birthplace of Blind Jack. Whilst he gave his name to the pub in the market place, he was fantastic character. He was born in 1717, was blinded by small[ox aged 6, and became well known as a card player, fiddler, diver, guide, horseman, trader and the first professional builder of roads in the industrial revolution and one of the “fathers of the modern road”.