Ripon Travel Guide

Planning to visit Ripon in North Yorkshire, England? Look no further than our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, and more.


Introduction to Ripon

Located in the heart of North Yorkshire, Ripon is a charming rural city that has been inhabited for over 1,400 years. With a history dating back to the middle ages, it is home to several prominent landmarks, including the stunning Ripon Cathedral, the ancient Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, and the impressive Newby Hall and Gardens. With its picturesque surroundings, thriving food scene, and vibrant cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in Ripon.

List of Places to Visit in Ripon

Here is a list of must-visit attractions that you should include on your itinerary when visiting Ripon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ripon Cathedral
  • Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
  • Newby Hall and Gardens
  • Workhouse Museum
  • Courthouse Museum
  • Ripon Spa Baths

Natural Attractions of Ripon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hackfall Woods
  • Spring Wood
  • Ripon Racecourse
  • The Ripon Rowel Walk
  • Nidderdale Greenway

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ripon

Ripon has a plethora of hiking and biking trails that cater to all skill levels. Here are a few of the most notable:

  • The Uredale Way
  • The Ripon Rowel Walk
  • Ripon to Fountains Abbey cycle route

Best Things to Do in Ripon: Activities and Tours

  • Go on a boat ride at Studley Royal Water Garden.
  • Visit the Workhouse Museum to learn more about the city’s history.
  • Take a guided tour of Ripon Cathedral.
  • Explore the stunning National Trust gardens at Fountains Abbey.
  • Attend the Ripon International Festival for the arts.
  • Visit local farms for activities such as apple picking, cheese tasting, and beer tasting.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ripon

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Ripon:

Day Activity
Day 1 Ripon Cathedral and City Centre
Day 2 Visit to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
Day 3 Newby Hall and Gardens
Day 4 Exploring the natural attractions - Hackfall Woods and Ripon Rowel Walk
Day 5 Workhouse Museum and Courthouse Museum
Day 6 Ripon Spa Baths and Nidderdale Greenway
Day 7 Local farms and markets for food and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Ripon

Ripon is a foodie haven, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving up local and international cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yorkshire Pudding
  • Yorkshire Fish Pie
  • Nidderdale Lamb
  • Wensleydale Cheese

Local Beverages

  • Theakston’s Old Peculier Ale
  • Black Sheep Ale
  • Pear Drovers Cider

Where to Stay in Ripon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ripon has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular options:

  • Grantley Hall
  • The Old Deanery
  • The Unicorn Hotel
  • Dairyman’s Cottage
  • Trinity House B&B

What to Buy in Ripon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From artisan cheeses and homemade jams to handmade jewellery and one-of-a-kind artworks, Ripon is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local products. Here are a few popular items to consider:

  • Wensleydale Cheese
  • Local honey
  • Ripon Cathedral souvenirs
  • Artisanal baked goods and preserves

Local Culture and Customs of Ripon

Ripon is a city steeped in tradition and history. One of its most notable customs is the “hornblower” ceremony, which takes place every night at 9 pm in the city centre, where the horn is blown to signal the locking of the market square gates. Visitors can also explore the city’s rich cultural heritage through its museums, galleries, and annual festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Ripon

The best time to visit Ripon is during the summer months of June-August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are several outdoor events and festivals taking place. However, visiting during the shoulder season of April-May and September-November can also be a great option, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ripon

Here are a few important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ripon:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be mindful of noise levels when visiting residential areas.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.
  • Take photographs in restricted areas without permission.
  • Disrupt the hornblower ceremony.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ripon

Ripon is a relatively safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still exercise caution and take basic safety precautions, such as locking valuables away and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Ripon

There are several medical facilities in Ripon, including a local hospital and several doctor’s offices and clinics. Visitors should also ensure that they have adequate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical emergencies.

Getting to Ripon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ripon

The closest airports to Ripon are Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) and Durham Tees Valley Airport (MME), both of which are within an hour’s drive of the city.

Bus Stations Near Ripon

Ripon is served by several local bus companies, including Transdev and Dales and District. The city’s bus station is located in the city centre, and there are regular services to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Ripon by train, with the nearest train station located in nearby Harrogate, which is approximately 20 miles away from the city.

How to Get Around in Ripon

The city centre is relatively compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Alternatively, visitors can also rent bicycles or hire taxis to get around. Several local bus companies also operate services within the city and to nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Ripon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring when visiting Ripon:

  • The Yorkshire Dales National Park
  • The city of Harrogate
  • The historic city of York
  • The seaside town of Whitby
  • The North York Moors National Park

Conclusion

Overall, Ripon is a hidden gem in the heart of Yorkshire that offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant food scene. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, there is something for everyone in this charming rural city. Make sure to add Ripon to your travel bucket list and experience the wonders of Yorkshire for yourself!

Newby Hall Newby Hall The rood screen of Ripon Cathedral The rood screen of Ripon Cathedral Fountains Abbey Fountains Abbey Studley Royal Park Studley Royal Park Devil's Arrows at Boroughbridge Devil's Arrows at Boroughbridge The Ripon Watchman The Ripon Watchman