In and Around Ripon

An unspoilt cathedral city, Ripon is a hidden gem with a rich heritage dating back over 1300 years. The magnificent Ripon Cathedral rises above the cobbled streets, which are lined with fascinating museums and galleries and independent shops and tearooms, all offering amazing friendly service. The bustling market place is the hub of activity for shopping, eating and a thriving weekly market. Ripon has a wealth of first class visitor attractions within a 10 mile radius to compliment any visit to the city.

Ripon is one of England’s smallest cities and keeps alive its traditional customs such as ‘setting the watch’. This thousand year old ceremony takes place nightly at 9pm with the horn blower in resplendent regalia blowing his horn in the market place.

Ripon Cathedral dates from the 7th century and was founded by St Wilfred. The carvings on the pews are believed to have inspired Lewis Carroll to write Alice In Wonderland. Every August St Wilfred is celebrated by an annual parade in which he rides a horse around the city.

Uncover hidden histories at Ripon Museums and discover what life was like in the Victorian Workhouse, Prison and Police Museum and Courthouse. Find out why people ended up here and what happened to them.

Ripon Spa Gardens offer a beautiful tranquil area for all ages with spectacular floral beds, a bowling green, crazy golf, tennis courts and café.

On the outskirts of Ripon, and within walking distance of River Laver Holiday Park, is the World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Deer Park – a ‘must do’ destination. The awe-inspiring abbey ruins lie in amazing grounds, alongside the Georgian water garden with lawns, lakes and follies, St. Marys Church and the adjoining deer park, home to Red, Fallow and Sika Deer.

For an exciting day out don’t miss a visit to Ripon’s Yorkshire Garden Racecourse, holding regular meetings from mid-April until mid-September, including several evening races, the very glamorous Ladies Day and two meetings for children and families. The friendly atmosphere make this racing experience so enjoyable people want to come back time and time again.

As well as all of this, there are also lovely walks along the canal or riverbanks, where you may be lucky enough to spot a kingfisher, or just meander around the backwaters of Ripon where you can drink in the history and architecture… Whatever you do, just enjoy!