Ripon CathedralThis North Yorkshire city is the smallest in England. What it loses in size it makes up for with its big personality. Dating back 1300 years, it is still dominated by the majestic cathedral. Visitors are also attracted to the World Heritage Site that is Fountains Abbey, Studley Royal and Ripon’s own bustling market square with stores selling a fine selection of local crafts on a regular basis.
Ripon is the ideal place for you to explore the surrounding Dales and the North Yorkshire Moors. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, visiting places of historical interest and culture. It is also within easy reach of other pleasant towns and cities like Knaresborough, Harrogate and York.
Yorkshire Dales landscape
Fountains Abbey is the most complete Cistercian abbey ruins in the country. Dating back to 1132, the monks led a relatively peaceful life in seclusion for around 400 years until Henry VIII demanded the closure of abbeys up and down the country. Most were sacked and destroyed, making Fountains Abbey a worthy World Heritage Site. Managed by National Trust, one of the best walks in the Ripon area is a circular trail around the Abbey and Studley Royal. Some of the features on the walk take in the water features, various pavilions and arboretums like the Octagon Tower, the Temples of Piety and Fame, and the Obelisk.
For days out beyond Ripon city limits, venture out to Nidderdale or the Howardian Hills AONB (Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty). Nidderdale is home to the oldest sweet shop in England,
and Yorkshire’s biggest and tallest art installation, Coldstones Cut. Created by Andrew Sabin, it sits high above Coldstone Quarry offering amazing views across Nidderdale.
For a good dining experience in Ripon you won’t be stuck for choice. One of the best restaurants is Manchega. It promises to provide relaxed surroundings in which to enjoy a fantastic selection of authentic, home-made tapas. Groups, families, veggies, vegans and pescetarians are all welcomed. There’s also a good spread of Italian, Indian and Chinese restaurants to try out, as well as some fish & chip shops. Ripon also has many pubs to drink the night away inside of, as well as a cinema.
“Visit the tranquil Fountains Abbey ruins and enjoy the wooded Studley Royal…”
Ripon has a great tourist information centre, so be sure to stop by for local tips and up to date information about events in the local area. We have some lovely holiday cottages in and around the Ripon area. Take a look at our collection and feel inspired.