Ripon in North Yorkshire has been named one of Britain’s top ten prettiest towns.
As welcome as this title might be, it sells Ripon a bit short – as it is actually a city.
Despite being home to just 16,000 people, Ripon has city status because it’s also home to a stunning cathedral that is more than 1,300 years old.
Ripon’s imposing cathedral is an impressive mix of Norman and Gothic architecture. Its crypt, which was built in 672 AD by St Wilfrid, is one of the oldest surviving Christian structures in England.
This grand cathedral is famed for its amazing art and architecture. It boasts beautiful stained glass, intricate wood carvings and stunning stonework.
The rest of Ripon doesn’t disappoint, either.
The city’s centre is the historic Market Square – which still hosts a weekly market every Thursday. This square is surrounded by a maze lanes and streets that are filled with independent shops and eateries.
Ripon’s buildings are a beautiful blend of Georgian and Victorian with the odd half-timbered Tudor façade thrown in for good measure.
It’s small size means all of this is easy to explore on foot – while Ripon’s friendly atmosphere only adds to its appeal.
Ripon is also home to a number of fascinating museums. Its Workhouse Museum offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of Victorian-era workhouses.
Alternatively, you can explore the history of law enforcement and penal practices in the UK at the Ripon Prison and Police Museum. Meanwhile, the Courthouse Museum showcases Georgian judicial practices in an authentic courthouse setting.
As well as museums, Ripon has some quirky living history – such as a tradition that dates back 1,100 years and can witnessed every night at 9pm.
This is when the Ripon Hornblower ceremonially blows a horn the Market Square to ‘set the watch’.
All this undeniable charm and quaintness explains why The Telegraph added to its list of Britain’s prettiest towns – despite the fact it’s a city. However, it has even more delights on its doorstep to enchant visitors.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is just a short drive from Ripon. This breathtakingly beautiful site includes the ruins of a medieval abbey, elegant water gardens and deer parks.
Newby Hall and Gardens is also nearby. This stately home with exquisite interiors has award-winning gardens – and a miniature railway.
Rides of a slightly more thrilling nature can be found at Lightwater Valley – a family-friendly theme park.
Or, if you get your thrills from nature, you can enjoy scenic walks along the River Skell or explore nearby Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
