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Top 5 things to do in Ripon

Ripon Cathedral: Also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Wilfrid, this Cathedral is a magnificent medieval structure that dates back to the 7th century. It is one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in England. Explore it’s stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the crypt, which houses the remains of Saint Wilfrid.

Ripon Cathedral is typically open to visitors during the following hours: Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 6.00pm, and Sunday: 7.30am to 6.00pm.

For more information on current news, events, and prices, please access Ripon Cathedral website!

Church interior with arched ceilings, wooden pews, and a red backdrop. People are gathered near the altar area. - Home Instead

Newby Hall and Gardens: Newby Hall is a splendid Georgian country house located on the banks of the River Ure. The house is known for its exceptional interiors, including the famous Gobelins tapestry room. The stunning gardens, designed by Capability Brown, feature herbaceous borders, a woodland walk, a rose garden, and a charming miniature railway. The gardens are usually open from late March until the end of September. The house is open for guided tours during the same period but may have limited opening days or times. It’s recommended to check in advance for house tour availability. Gardens Open 11.00am-5.30pm on non event days.

For more information on current news, events, and ticket prices, please access the Newby estate website!

A serene pond with weeping willows hanging over it, seen from a stone balustrade on a sunny day. - Home Instead

Ripon Market Square: take a stroll through the market square,  at the heart of Ripon and an excellent place to soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the weekly market (held on Thursdays), browse through local shops and boutiques, and grab a bite to eat in one of the charming cafes or pubs. Don’t forget to admire the impressive obelisk, known as the Ripon Hornblower’s Monument, which dates back to 1702.

For more information on current news and events, please access the Visit Harrogate website!

A town square with a small building, an obelisk, and red phone boxes on a cloudy day. - Home Instead

Ripon Museums: Ripon is home to three fascinating museums collectively known as the Ripon Museums. These include the Workhouse Museum and Garden, which explores the history of poverty and social welfare, the Prison and Police Museum, offering insights into crime and punishment throughout the centuries, and the Courthouse Museum, which delves into the legal history of the region. Together, these museums provide a unique and immersive glimpse into Ripon’s past. Provided below are the opening times:

  • Workhouse Museum and Garden: Monday to Sunday: 11.00am to 4.00pm.
  • Prison and Police Museum: Monday to Sunday: 10.00am to 4.00pm.
  • Courthouse Museum: Monday to Sunday: 11.00am to 4.00pm.

For more information on current news, events, and ticket prices, please access the Ripon Museums website!

A historic brick building with barred windows and various plaques on the wall, seen from across a quiet street. - Home Instead

Studley Roger Deer Park: Adjacent to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, the Studley Roger Deer Park is home to a herd of deer roaming freely in a picturesque landscape. Take a walk through the park and observe these majestic creatures. The park is usually open during daylight hours, and entry is usually included with admission to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden!

Abbey and water garden admission opening times: 10.00am to 4.30pm.

For more information on current news, events, and ticket prices, please access the National Trust website!

A serene lake reflects a forest and two stone buildings with a small waterfall under a clear blue sky. - Home Instead