Things To Do
in Ripon
Ripon is a compact, historic market town in North Yorkshire, England, perched on the River Ure. It's renowned for its medieval Ripon Cathedral and well-preserved Georgian streets. The town serves as a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding dales, Fountains Abbey, and Studley Royal, with easy access to riverside walks and countryside trails.
With friendly locals, independent shops, and a relaxed pace, Ripon blends rich heritage with a welcoming country-town vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional English fare. Afterward, take a stroll through Ripon’s historic market square, admiring the stunning architecture of the Ripon Cathedral. Don't forget to visit the Ripon Market, which is vibrant with local produce and crafts.
Spend your afternoon at the Workhouse Museum, where you can learn about the history of social care in the area through engaging exhibits. After exploring, take a leisurely walk along the River Skell, enjoying the serene views and the sound of nature. Stop by a quaint tearoom for a traditional afternoon tea, complete with scones and clotted cream.
As the sun sets, head to a local pub for an authentic British dinner, where you can indulge in classic dishes like fish and chips. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and perhaps engage with locals who can share stories about Ripon’s rich history. Conclude your evening with a gentle stroll back through the illuminated streets of the city, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Ripon Cathedral, where you can appreciate its stunning stained glass and impressive architecture. Join a guided tour to gain insights into the cathedral's history and significance in the community. Spend some time in the surrounding gardens, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful flower displays.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, visit the Ripon Racecourse to learn about the local horse racing culture. If you’re lucky, you might catch a race or two during the season, adding excitement to your visit. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby Studley Royal Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its carefully manicured landscapes.
Return to the city center for dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can sample locally sourced dishes. After your meal, consider catching a performance at the Ripon Arts Centre, which showcases local talent in music, theatre, and more. Wind down your evening with a drink at a local bar, listening to live music or simply enjoying the friendly atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🧀Local cheese or snack | $5-12 |
| 🚆Bus or short train ticket | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich heritage and architecture
- Compact, walkable town center
- Proximity to Fountains Abbey and natural scenery
- Friendly locals and independent shops
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller shopping and dining variety
- Could feel quiet for some travelers in off-peak seasons
Places to Visit in Ripon
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic architecture and intricate stonework; stunning interiors and cloisters for daytime photography.
Early light on Georgian façades and Market Cross creates classic town photography moments.
Quaint bridges, water reflections, and leafy banks along the river for serene shots.
Colorful gardens and a tranquil backdrop for portraits and detail shots.
Historic stone walls and quiet lanes near the Cathedral provide atmospheric photos.
Food in Ripon
Ripon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Sunday lunch staple widely available in pubs around Ripon.
Must-Try!
A ginger sponge cake traditional to Yorkshire, perfect with a cuppa.
A creamy regional cheese often enjoyed with oatcakes or crusty bread.
A comforting beef and potato bake, a common midweek option.
Simple, satisfying and widely available in seaside towns nearby; try it with mushy peas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Square (Wednesdays and Saturdays) featuring local produce, baked goods and seasonal treats.
Seasonal market days offering cheese, meat, pastries, honey, and prepared foods.
Pop-up bites and take-away options around Market Place and along the River Ure during market weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and reservations; Yorkshire visitors appreciate reliability.
Respect queues in shops and on public transport; patience is valued.
A polite greeting (Hello/Please/Thank you) goes a long way; locals are friendly but reserved.
Safety
Tipping in Ripon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cards (including contactless and mobile payments) are widely accepted; cash is still useful for smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; ideal for walking tours around the Cathedral and the riverside.
Long daylight hours, pleasant outdoor dining, and river walks; expect occasional showers.
Autumn colors along Market Street and river are gorgeous; cooler evenings require a light jacket.
Shorter days, possible frost or snow; cozy pubs and warm cafés are perfect retreat spots.
Ripon at Night
Hiking in Ripon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic gritstone rock formations and scenic walks in Brimham; about 15-25 miles from Ripon.
Extensive network of trails through the vale, villages, and reservoirs.
Woodland and water trails around the abbey grounds; easy to moderate levels.
Airports
How to reach Ripon by plane.
Closest major airport; around 25-30 miles from Ripon with train and road connections.
Significant international hub about 60-80 miles south; good for long-haul travel with rail connections to the region.
Regional airport offering a range of domestic and short-haul flights about 70-90 miles away depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and retirees; the area is known for its safe, walkable streets.
Some residents commute to bigger towns like Harrogate or York for work or study.
Domestic and international visitors exploring Fountains Abbey, Ripon Cathedral, and the surrounding countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at Ripon Racecourse, offering events and fixtures throughout the year.
Local club cricket is common in parks and open spaces during warmer months.
Common in regional clubs and school grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ripon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, roasted veg mains, and salads. Ask about cross-contamination in kitchens.
Look for plant-based mains, veggie soups, and dairy-free desserts; many venues can adapt dishes on request.
Many places can accommodate gluten-free meals with separate prep areas; request gluten-free bread or batter when ordering.