Things to do in Ripon
Ripon is perfectly placed for easy access to a wealth of attractions and experiences so we can guarantee there’s something to delight everyone.
The city’s rich cultural 1300-year history is a natural draw for many visitors keen to experience the serenity and beauty of Ripon Cathedral. Its tiny chapel is the oldest surviving Anglo-Saxon crypt in England and its surrounding narrow atmospheric streets allow you to walk in the footsteps of figures gone by.
The beautifully preserved and restored Yorkshire Law and Order Museums offer a unique insight into the workings of the Victorian court, prison and workhouse system, allowing a hands-on and sobering experience of what life was like for the many families unlucky enough to be touched by it.
If you fancy a spot of retail therapy the city offers a delightful range of independent shops which are perfect for browsing for a special gift for loved ones or yourself.
Ripon boasts its own UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising a 12th century Cistercian abbey within the extraordinary Georgian Water Garden. Be as stunned by the drama and surprises of the landscape as the first visitors were.
The landed gentry loved the beauty of North Yorkshire, and many chose to build homes here, commissioning the finest designers and craftspeople of their day. Visit nearby National Trust properties and gardens to experience the grandeur and beauty of how the landed gentry lived.
And for those keen to get out and blow away the cobwebs there is no shortage of stunning walks. From a gentle stroll to something altogether more challenging, pull on your boots and get inspired.
After all this activity has worked up an appetite for lunch or dinner, Ripon has plenty to tempt your taste buds, whether you fancy afternoon tea with light as air scones in a cosy tearoom or a hearty feast in one of our many wonderful pubs or restaurants.
There are so many great things to do in Ripon, we know you will wish you were staying longer.
Explore things to do in Ripon
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden
The magnificent ruins of the once prosperous Fountains Abbey, the largest… The magnificent ruins of the once prosperous Fountains Abbey, the largest monastic ruins in the country, sit alongside a Georgian water garden that…
Three Graces Spa at Grantley Hall
Award-winning of spa and wellness facilities within a five-star country… Award-winning of spa and wellness facilities within a five-star country house hotel.
The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park
Inspired by the Himalayas, and home to one of the North’s largest… Inspired by the Himalayas, and home to one of the North’s largest collections of rhododendrons, azaleas and magnolias. The terrain undulates with…
Ripon Workhouse & Garden Museum
Step inside one of Britain’s most complete surviving Victorian workhouses… Step inside one of Britain’s most complete surviving Victorian workhouses and discover real lives, harsh routines and powerful stories of poverty,…
Newby Hall & Gardens
A perfect destination for quality time together. Explore the beautiful… A perfect destination for quality time together. Explore the beautiful house and uncover its rich history or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the…
Ripon Prison & Police Museum
Step inside Ripon’s former Liberty Prison and discover the gripping story… Step inside Ripon’s former Liberty Prison and discover the gripping story of crime, punishment and policing through atmospheric cells, hands-on…
Ripon Racecourse
Horse racing in Ripon takes place at what is affectionately known as… Horse racing in Ripon takes place at what is affectionately known as Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse – Ripon Racecourse.
Markenfield Hall
Open by appointment for guided tours, April and October, Yorkshire’s… Open by appointment for guided tours, April and October, Yorkshire’s best-kept secret.
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