Is it Ripon, Yorkshire, England that you’ve made up your mind to visit on your next vacation? Then, you’ve made a nice choice!
Ripon asserts that it is the oldest city in England, having existed for more than 1,300 years.
Whether or not this is the case, you cannot discount the significance of its huge historical structures and monuments. For instance, the crypt of Ripon Cathedral, a gem of Early English architecture, contains the remnants of an Anglo-Saxon basilica from the 7th century.
The largest monastery ruin in the nation is Fountains Abbey, located three miles outside of the city.
If you’re convinced that Ripon is the place you should be, then, let it be my joy to make introduce to you my 41 Best and most fun things to do in Ripon
Things to Do in Ripon
1. Ripon Market Place
Since the beginning of the 13th century, Ripon’s Market Place has been surrounded by rows of medieval homes, some of which are half-timbered.
The Town Hall, built-in 1719 and housing the visitor centre, is located on the south side. The market cross in the middle, which was built in 1702 and is the first free-standing obelisk in the UK, is even older.
The Market Place is filled with the sights, sounds and scents of Ripon every Thursday, selling fruit, vegetables, confectionery, cheese, freshly baked bread, pastries, flowers, fabrics and a lot more.
2. Fountains Hall
Following the suppression of Fountains Abbey, the nobleman Stephen Proctor purchased the property and had a luxurious home built.
Fountains Hall is a typical late Elizabethan descent mansion from the turn of the 17th century, built to exude wealth and authority.
In addition to recycling an entire spiral staircase’s worth of sandstone blocks from the Abbey, Proctor also had fresh limestone cut for the ashlar dressings.
Inside the hall are interpretive panels from the National Trust that tell you about the building’s interesting past, during which it served as a magnificent residence, a courthouse, and even a farmer’s home.
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a Tudor stately estate, Fountains Hall offers accommodations as well as wedding rental services.
3. Prison and Police Museum
This House of Correction for Criminals was established inside the St Marygate complex at the end of the 17th century.
The Liberty Prison, which was constructed there in 1816 and later transformed into the Ripon Police Station, was shut down in 1956. From Anglo-Saxon antiquity through the establishment of a professional police force in 1829, the museum chronicles the development of police work in Yorkshire. Kids can try on police clothing and prisoner garb, and you can experience hard labour done in the manner of the Victorians by climbing a treadmill, shooting drilling, and cranking.
Along with being briefly imprisoned in a cell, you’ll also encounter some terrifying forms of punishment including the restraint chair and the pillory.
Go and see for yourself.
4. Newby Hall and Gardens
This late-17th-century rural house by the River Ure was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, one of England’s most renowned architects.
Robert Adam assisted with the interior renovations later, in the 18th century.
Sicilian marble flooring, skillfully crafted stucco panels, mahogany doors, Corinthian columns, Renaissance artwork, alabaster urns, and Gobelins tapestries are among the interior features.
Thomas Chippendale, the best furniture maker of the 18th century, created Pembroke tables, dining chairs, and hall chairs for the home.
The chairs of the Tapestry Room, which are the only Chippendale suite to still have both their original covers and their original placement, are upholstered in Gobelins tapestry cloth.
The 25 acres of award-winning gardens outside were primarily created in the 1920s.
These are separated into a variety of charming tiny areas, including, to name a few, two rock gardens, a double herbaceous border, a national Cornus collection, a tropical garden, a forest garden, and a water garden.
5. Workhouse Museum
Ripon’s Victorian Workhouse, a reminder of a darker era, is now a museum.
This is how Ripon’s poverty manifested itself—as a supply of inexpensive labour in exchange for a place to live and food.
This structure was a self-sufficient community with a priest, teacher, infirmary, laundry, and culinary gardens when it was constructed in 1855.
Visit the cells where prisoners slept, learn what they consumed, and engage in the menial labour they were forced to perform.
Volunteers keep after the kitchen gardens, which also generate food for nearby restaurants.
The museum’s interpreters will explain the manual trades practised in the workhouse, such as rag rugging and oakum picking, while they are dressed historically.
6. Fountains Abbey
Since Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, the abbey has been a ruin, but 500 years of deterioration haven’t lessened its grandeur.
Built-in 1132, Fountains Abbey prospered from lead mining, stone quarrying, animal husbandry, and wool manufacturing to become one of the wealthiest monasteries in the nation.
A modern structure inside the ancient gatehouse houses the Porter’s Lodge Museum, which delves into the history of the 70-acre abbey site.
You may explore significant portions of the abbey church and cloisters as well as the remnants of one of the largest abbot’s homes in England among the ruins.
The length of the great hall alone was more than 50 meters.
You should see this place!
7. Studley Royal Park
Allow as much time as you can to explore this 800-acre World Heritage Site.
This property which is on the Studley Royal House was destroyed by fire in 1946. The statesman John Aislabie ordered the water garden at the beginning of the 18th century, and his son William later improved it.
The Studley Royal Water Garden is the next must-see attraction after the abbey.
Admire the breathtaking ornamental lake, canals, and cascades that are dotted with charming whimsies like a Gothic(ancient German) castle, a Greek temple, and a banqueting house.
The park is home to sika, fallow, and red deer, as well as many other worthwhile historical sites.
8. Ripon Spa Gardens
Ripon Spa Gardens, a classy Victorian park in the heart of the city, consistently wins the Green Flag for its features and excellent level of upkeep.
The park is centred on a stunning Victorian bandstand and features delicate flowerbeds, topiaries, and exotic trees.
Every Sunday, concerts are held here, and a sombre statue of the liberal politician George Frederick Samuel, the Marquess of Ripon, sits nearby.
A collection of wood sculptures depicting characters from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland adds a wonderful new touch to the park.
These carvings, which commemorate Lewis Carroll’s formative years in Ripon Cathedral, were made in 2011.
9. Ripon Cathedral
One of the finest examples of Early English Gothic architecture is the west front of Ripon Cathedral, which is highly regarded.
It has subtle rows of lancet windows framed by thin columns and ornamental mouldings that date back to 1220.
The cathedral is the fourth church to occupy this location, and it’s thrilling to note that a fragment of the first church, which dates to the seventh century, can be found in the crypt.
A stunning east window in the Decorated Gothic style can be seen in the choir, which was constructed towards the end of the 13th century.
In the middle of the 19th century, Lewis Carroll served as a canon at Ripon Cathedral.
When you arrive take a look and if possible take a photo of the 35 mercy seat from the late 15th century in the choir, which are said to have served as models for Alice’s Adventure in wonderland.
10. Ripon Canal
The Ripon Canal is a tranquil green corridor that extends 2.3 miles down to the navigable River Ure, starting at an incredibly lovely historic wharf in the southeast of the city.
After the railways took over in the middle of the 19th century, the canal, which had begun carrying coal into Ripon and leading out of the city in the early 1770s, began to deteriorate.
After the canal was abandoned in 1956, the residents of Ripon stepped in, and by the 1990s, it had been completely rebuilt.
With the Ripon Racecourse, there is a continuous footpath that runs alongside a wetland bird sanctuary and is bordered by wildflowers and 18th-century locks.
The canal has received the coveted Green Flag as of 2018. You ought to visit this place.
11. Druids’ Temple
The wealthy landowner and scholar William Danby erected a Stonehenge memorial on his property in the lower Wensleydale Hills in the early 19th century.
The Druids’ Temple, now located on Forestry Commission property and a popular picnic area, was built in an attempt to reduce unemployment using cheap local labour.
The monument, which is encircled by fern-bedded woods, is intriguing because it exemplifies how the Georgians conceptualized Neolithic history.
Even though the Druids’ Temple’s goal is generally known, for the past 200 years, rumours of hidden rites and devil worship have persisted.
12. Markenfield Hall
This magnificent manor house, which was formerly off-limits to visitors, is now open 30 afternoons a year and also provides guided tours. You might be lucky to be in town on one of those afternoons.
Markenfield Hall is hidden from the A61 via a mile-long lane and is guarded by a square moat that is home to two black swans.
The Grade I-listed manor house is primarily from the 14th century but has some later additions, such as a stunning Tudor gatehouse from the 16th century that is also Grade I. On open days, stewards are stationed in each room to answer any inquiries.
Before ascending to the great hall, chapel, and four-poster chambers, you’ll notice the domed Gothic undercroft/kitchen when you visit this place.
13. Lightwater Valley
The thrill coasters, kid-friendly play areas, and animal attractions at this theme park, which is only ten minutes from the town centre, will appeal to both toddlers and teenagers.
The Ultimate, the second-longest steel rollercoaster in the world at 2,268 meters, is the centre of attention in Lightwater Valley.
Before tearing into the forest, the ride has two lift hills that ascend above 30 meters to provide vistas of the park and surrounding area.
The Wild Eagle’s Claw enormous swing ride is also available for thrill-seekers.
All-comers can enjoy milder rollercoasters, a splash ride, teacups, a narrow-gauge railway, and adventure golf, while the younger members of the clan can explore eight themed play zones, the majority of which have just recently debuted.
Also at Lightwater Valley is the Eagle’s Creek Farm, with pygmy goats, Shetland ponies and donkeys, and birds of prey centre for demonstrations and bird handling.
All-comers can enjoy milder rollercoasters, a splash ride, teacups, a narrow-gauge railway, and adventure golf, while the younger members of the clan can explore eight themed play zones, the majority of which have just recently debuted.
The Eagle’s Creek Farm, featuring pygmy goats, Shetland ponies and donkeys, and a prey centre for demonstrations and bird handling, is also located in Lightwater Valley.
14. Way of the Roses
Ripon is located on a 170-mile coast-to-coast bicycle path that runs from Bridlington on the North Sea to Morecambe on the Irish Sea.
The marked trail primarily stays off of major roads by using calm lanes, abandoned railroad tracks, and approved cycle paths.
The conflict between the Houses of Lancaster and York in the fifteenth century gave rise to the Way of the Roses, which is located primarily in the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire.
A ride can be started conveniently from Ripon.
You can head west into the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for challenging climbs and far-off views.
The terrain is largely level and suitable for families east of Ripon.
15. Ripon Hornblower
The setting of the watch has been a tradition in Ripon since 886, during Alfred the Great’s rule, making it one of England’s oldest rites.
The Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings were at war during the time.
Following his recapture of London, King Alfred set off on a campaigning tour across the nation.
He encouraged the small community in Ripon to be more watchful upon his arrival, so they chose a “Wakeman,” someone who would stay watch throughout the night.
At 9 pm, this hornblower, wearing ceremonial garb, sounds his watch on the four corners of the market cross in a ritual dating back well over a millennium.
Other places include;
16. Harrowgate Spring Flower Show.
The Harrogate Spring Flower Show, which kicks off the new growing season with a stunning celebration of the best in horticulture, is the first significant event on the national gardening calendar.
This distinguished event includes the largest exhibition of florists and flower arrangers in the nation, live presentations and demonstrations, beautiful show gardens, and fantastic garden shopping.
Take home the most up-to-date design concepts from the skilled landscapers who are building our lovely spring show gardens in 2023. Take a stroll along The Avenue to view our Practical Plots gardens, which provide big ideas for little spaces and large-scale garden elements.
The largest exhibition of florists and flower arrangers in Britain is held at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show. Admire hundreds of beautifully crafted pieces of art as well as other expansive displays produced by flower groups and floristry schools across the nation.
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17. LittletHorpe Pottery
Since 1831, Littlethorpe Potteries has been making traditional products from the famous Littlethorpe clay deposits, which date back to the glaciation of the Vale of York.
James Foxton established the clay works in 1831; initially, the facility was primarily concerned with the manufacturing of tiles and bricks for the Foxton family’s building business, with the pottery arm of the site producing brown earthenware; in 1920, the plant was renamed Littlethorpe Potteries.
Arthur Fell, the current owner’s paternal grandfather, purchased the factory in 1922 to create a fixed market for his coal mine near Bradford by utilizing the coal to power the Pottery’s multiple kilns.
The Littlethorpe Pottery is a working heritage centre, the oldest continuously operating pottery in the nation, and the only pottery that still digs its clay. They also still use most of the original equipment and carry out the entire manufacturing process on-site, making it a great place for your first pottery experience.
18. Ripon City Wetlands Nature Reserve.
The goal of this large nature reserve is to offer a variety of habitats for regional plant and animal species. The reserve has a built-in system for preventing flooding. The wetland lessens the possibility of flooding downstream by holding rainwater during times of heavy precipitation and functioning as a big sponge. Since the ponds are organically filled, the water level changes as the water table do.
The reserve’s habitats, including grassland, hedgerows, woodland, and aquatic/marginal vegetation, support a variety of wildlife. This variety means there is something to view in all seasons of the year, whether it is ice and frozen seedheads in the winter or wildflowers in the summer. You should go there.
19. Sigma Antiques
Go Shop for some antiques and other collectables at this amazing location.
Address: The Old Opera House, Water Skellgate, Ripon HG4 1BH, United Kingdom
20. Quarry Moor Park
On the outskirts of a historic city with excellent transportation options, Quarry Moor and New Park are next to each other. These Ripon residential parks are ideal for seniors because they provide a quiet residence close to local services and attractions.
The parks were created over many years and are year-round havens for wildlife and lush vegetation. Each plot has a sense of privacy and space because it is set back from the main driveway. Persons can benefit from having their own space to call home while living in a small, welcoming community. You can enjoy a calm and relaxing way of life.
21. Ripon City Golf Club
The friendly parkland course known as Ripon City Golf Club is close to the lovely and historic cathedral city that bears its name.
Here, golf is played in a stunning, serene, and rural environment. It is a well-liked destination for tourists with some intriguing holes and a lively atmosphere close to the club.
Although the course is only 6,000 yards long, don’t let that deceive you into thinking you can beat it. Both sand and water hazards abound and are just waiting for careless shots😊.
22. Swinton Country Club and Spa
A physical, calming, and healthy experience can be had at Swinton Country Club & Spa, a modern structure with a natural aesthetic that reflects its location in a 20,000-acre environment and Yorkshire heritage.
A memorable spa day and a spa break are provided by the tranquil setting, stunning facility, creative dining, outdoor – indoor activity, and spa treatment expertise.
You should visit this location.
23. Himalayan Garden and Sculpture park
Discover a 20-acre garden tapestry filled with exotic plant nurseries, lovely walks, and inspiration.
Plants from Mexico, New Zealand, Northern India, Tibet, China, Bhutan, The Himalayas, Vietnam, Taiwan, Nepal, Chile, South Korea, and Japan are among those on display in the breathtaking Woodland Garden. There are always new exotic plants to uncover as the collection grows and changes.
They offer a selection of vegetation plants of the highest quality, including rare and exotic species and hybrid Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Azaeleas, Cornus, and other Himalayan-type plants. A lush ground woods carpet is provided by primulas, bluebells, and daffodils. One of the largest collections of species rhododendrons in the UK is thought to be located in this garden.
Annual Open Days are on Bank Holiday Mondays and also take place from the third week in April to the third week in June (please check the website for exact dates each year). For other times, trips to the Nursery, which is available all year round, must be scheduled in advance.
For some fun outdoor exploration activity in Ripon, you should visit this place
24. For some theatre experience, check the Curzon Ripon.
Situated in the North Yorkshire cathedral city of Ripon. An old furniture store that had been abandoned for a while was transformed into the Curzon Cinema. It debuted on October 31, 2013. There are 58 seats on screen 1 and 34 on screen 2.
Go and book some seats for yourself.
25. Hackfall woods.
Hack Fall Wood, also known as Hackfall, is a 44.8687-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in North Yorkshire, England. It is located northeast of the village of Grewelthorpe.
You should check it out.
26. St. John the Baptist’s Chapel
This is a church hinged on historical principles. The remnants of Anglo-Saxon carved stones that were reused in the walls of this medieval church serve as evidence that the church of St. John the Baptist is located within an ancient sacred landscape.
However, compared to the Anglo-Saxon stonework signals, this is a much older landscape of power, aristocracy, and warfare.
The church is located inside Stanwick Camp, an Iron Age earthwork fortification that was likely the seat of power for Cartimandua, the queen of the Brigantes tribe.
Visit this niche and perhaps, you may hear the rest of the story.
27. David Stead Gallery.
David Stead, the owner of the gallery, primarily displays his work there. David, a Yorkshire native who was born in 1960, studied fine art in Harrogate and London and has worked as a working artist ever since.
His paintings are in collections all over the world and he has displayed them in numerous prestigious galleries.
28. George Fredrick Samuel Statue.
From 1870 to 1874, George, 1st Marquess of Ripon (1827–1909), served as Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, which oversaw Freemasonry in England and Wales.
When he became a Catholic, he left Freemasonry because he felt that his new faith was incompatible with it.
Now that you know something about the man, shouldn’t you see his statute? Of course, you should.
29. Norton Conyers.
The Graham family has owned Norton Conyers’ home and grounds since 1624. Recent excavations have shown that the house contains Anglo-Saxon elements.
Note that the word Anglo-Saxon has to do with north European Settlements.
You should visit this ancient spot.
30. Halls of Ripon
Located in Market Place in Ripon, North Yorkshire, England, is the town hall known as the Hall of Ripon. The building is a Grade II* listed building that was built in the year 1799 and formerly served as the Ripon Borough Council’s administrative centre
It’s another building you shouldn’t hesitate to check out for a nice sightseeing experience.
31. Ripon Physio Co.
Ripon Physio Co. is passionate about physiotherapy, and thanks to modern technology, you may receive physiotherapy face-to-face through online consultations. They are a secure, welcoming, and qualified facility that can assist you in getting over your problems.
32. Storehouse Kitchen
Storehouse Kitchen is a laid-back neighbourhood restaurant and grill that serves thoughtfully prepared food that draws inspiration from the local area and uses the best locally sourced produce and wild foraged ingredients.
The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of gins, spirits, liqueurs, beers, and wines, as well as a creative wine list and cool cocktails.
The ideal dining location is the Storehouse kitchen, whether it’s for a romantic lunch for two or a casual get-together with friends or personal eat-out, this place is very convenient for you.
33. Holy Trinity Church Ripon
As part of their commitment to the Christian faith and In close collaboration with Ripon Cathedral School, Holy Trinity Church has provided mentorship for the Transforming Lives program, which has assisted disadvantaged students.
Many of the Open the Book worships that kids like were also created by Holy Trinity. These have occurred both live and online at school.
34. Talon Falconry
You can expect a family-friendly, truly engrossing experience from Talon Falconry.
This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the fascinating birds’ lives while also seeing how they are handled and trained.
If you are brave enough, you can put on a gauntlet and let one of the trained birds land on your arm! When you observe the thrilling flying demonstrations, you will get to witness them in action!
There are more and more snakes and reptiles from different parts of the world in the Snake Pit. You could get to use one of these as well😁. Many of these animals are trained so you’ll have to just take the right instructions.
35. St. Mary Magdalene’s Chapel(Leper Chapel)
This Historic Landmass is an active Anglican chapel, The Chapel of St. Mary Magdalen, Ripon, is located on Magdalens Road in the English city of Ripon, North Yorkshire. This chapel, which honours Mary Magdalene, a companion of Jesus, is located not far from Ripon Cathedral and is a part of its benefice, deanery, and archdeaconry.
36. Courthouse Museum
This magnificently restored Georgian courthouse is located within a short distance of the historic Ripon Cathedral. The Quarter Sessions were held at the medieval structure, one of several structures grouped around the archbishop’s residence.
On the courthouse’s ground floor, you can tour all three of the available rooms. The Jury Room provides information on the Courthouse’s past as well as the evolution of Ripon’s criminal justice system. A pair of halberds that were used to open each quarter session is displayed on the wall. Legal handbooks, regulations, and legislation are kept in bookcases.
In the Magistrate’s Retiring Room, you can observe the work of a magistrate and discover more about their personal and professional histories. Charles Oxley, a JP from 1811 to 1873, was one of them. Oxley who participated in the committees that assisted in the construction of the prison and the courtroom served as the first Chairman of Petty Sessions and oversaw the implementation of the Poor Law.
It is possible to observe how cases were heard in the courtroom itself. On an elevated bench, the magistrates were seated. Clerks and the defendant’s attorney were seated in the Well below them (if any). In front of the judges are three boxes: two for defendants and one for witnesses. This required witnesses to stand immediately next to the defendants they were testifying against.
Go and find out more things about this fascinating location in Ripon when you arrive there.
37. Ripon Tourist Information Centre.
The newly opened Tourist Information Centre is housed in the grade II listed Town Hall.
Their professional and experienced staff will be able to assist you to make the most of your visit by providing information about Ripon and the surrounding area. If you need to reserve a hotel room, their team can help. They can also make reservations for your next destination.
Ripon Tourist Information Centre features a comprehensive selection of publications, local guides, maps, and souvenirs to help you make the most of your visit to the city of Ripon.
38. Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park.
Theme park Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park is located in North Stainley, North Yorkshire, England. The park is home to The Ultimate, Europe’s longest roller coaster.
39. Workhouse Museum:
Begin your tour of the Victorian Workhouse in the original gatehouse, which includes the Guardians’ Room, inmates’ bathing area, Vagrants’ Cells, and the Receiving Ward. Compare the Master and Matron’s quarters to the Victorian kitchen, scullery, dining room, and schoolroom.
Wander around the reconstructed kitchen garden, nurturing heritage vegetables using techniques traditionally utilized by convicts.
At this venue, admission is limited to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for their visitors, and all tickets must be purchased in advance.
40. Jack Laugher Leisure and Wellness Centre.
Jack, who was born in Harrogate and educated at Ripon Grammar School, became interested in diving after visiting the Harrogate Hydro and shortly began learning to dive through the Harrogate and District Diving Club.
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Laugher became the first-ever Olympic champion in diving for Great Britain, alongside 3m synchro partner Chris Mears, before adding an individual silver in the 3m springboard to become the most successful British diver ever.
Laugher’s success has continued, with three gold medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, a bronze and silver medal in the 3m solo and synchro springboard events at the 2019 World Championships in Gwangju, and a bronze medal in the 3m springboard event at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
This fantastic new facility gives people access to a fantastic swimming experience for future generations and will inspire you to live a better and more active lifestyle, something you can be proud of.
41. The Arcades
The Arcade is a place where games never end. The access fee is $8 for children under 10 and $10 for older persons all day. Once you have access, Every video game is available for free! Just 50 cents for pinball!
Conclusion
Do your best to travel safely and joyfully! Don’t forget to reserve your accommodation, transportation, and other tickets early enough. When traveling, convenience is quite important. Act accordingly, then!
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GRACIAS!
