Discover Ripley | A Visitor's Introduction to Ripley

Why is Ripley Worth a Visit?

Ripley is worth visiting for its rich history, striking architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. The village is anchored by Ripley Castle, a grand stately home with a history dating back over 700 years. Strolling through Ripley feels like stepping back in time, with its French-inspired village layout and traditional stone buildings, many of which have remained unchanged for centuries. Its compact size makes Ripley ideal for a relaxing day trip, but its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales and nearby attractions like Harrogate and Fountains Abbey also make it a great base for exploring North Yorkshire.

Ripley Highlights: Things to See and Do in Ripley

1. Ripley Castle and Gardens
The crown jewel of the village, Ripley Castle, has been home to the Ingilby family for over 700 years. The castle offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating history, including its connections to political intrigue, royalty, and the English Civil War. The tour takes you through beautifully preserved rooms filled with historic artefacts and stunning artwork. Outside, the castle’s extensive gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll find landscaped grounds, a walled garden, a deer park, and serene lakeside walks, making Ripley Castle a must-see for visitors.

2. Ripley Village
Ripley’s village centre is a charming area with cobbled streets, stone cottages, and a distinctly European flair. The village was rebuilt in the 19th century by Sir William Amcotts-Ingilby, who took inspiration from French architecture after visiting the Loire Valley. Today, you can explore its picturesque streets, admire the ivy-clad buildings, and browse the independent shops. The village also has a traditional village green, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings with views of the castle in the background.

3. Ripley Ice Cream
A trip to Ripley isn’t complete without sampling the famous Ripley Ice Cream. This award-winning ice cream is made locally using fresh ingredients and has become one of the most popular treats in the region. You can visit the Ripley Ice Cream shop in the village and choose from a variety of delicious flavours, making it a perfect stop for families or anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy your cone while wandering the village or relaxing by the village green.

4. Ripley Castle Deer Park
Adjacent to Ripley Castle is its deer park, which is home to herds of fallow deer. The park offers picturesque walking paths with stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside. It’s a peaceful spot for a scenic walk or a picnic, and the sight of deer roaming freely adds to the idyllic atmosphere. The park is open to the public year-round and is a popular location for photographers and nature lovers.

5. St Michael’s Church
Located just across from Ripley Castle, St Michael’s Church is a beautiful Gothic-style building with a history dating back to the 14th century. The church’s impressive stained glass windows and memorials dedicated to the Ingilby family make it well worth a visit. The churchyard is a peaceful place to reflect, with views of the village and surrounding countryside. Inside, you’ll find a serene atmosphere that highlights the village’s long religious and historic heritage.

6. The Boar’s Head Inn
The Boar’s Head Inn is a historic coaching inn located in the heart of Ripley. It offers classic British hospitality, with comfortable rooms, a cosy bar, and a restaurant serving delicious Yorkshire fare. Even if you’re not staying overnight, the inn is a lovely spot for lunch or an evening meal. Their seasonal menu showcases local ingredients, and the warm atmosphere is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Ripley and its surroundings.

7. Ripley Farmers’ Market
On the second Sunday of every month, Ripley holds its popular Farmers' Market in the village hall and on the village green. It’s a fantastic way to sample fresh local produce, artisan goods, and handmade crafts. Stalls offer everything from homemade jams and chutneys to locally sourced meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market is a great way to meet local producers and experience the village’s vibrant community spirit.

8. Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
Ripley is located on the edge of the Nidderdale AONB, a stunning landscape of rolling hills, valleys, and rivers that offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a keen hiker, cyclist, or just want to take in the views, Nidderdale is a beautiful area to explore. Nearby beauty spots such as Brimham Rocks, a fascinating collection of natural rock formations, and Gouthwaite Reservoir, a serene birdwatching site, are perfect for day trips from Ripley.

9. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
Just a short drive from Ripley is Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The abbey is one of the largest and best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in England, and the adjoining Studley Royal Water Garden is a masterpiece of Georgian landscaping. You can spend hours exploring the atmospheric ruins, the ornamental lakes, and the deer park that surrounds the estate. It’s one of North Yorkshire’s top attractions and an easy addition to any visit to Ripley.

Practical Advice for Visitors to Ripley

- Getting There: Ripley is located just 3 miles north of Harrogate and is easily accessible by car via the A61. If you’re travelling by public transport, regular bus services run from Harrogate, Leeds, and Ripon, making it easy to reach Ripley without a car. The nearest train station is in Harrogate, with frequent connections to Leeds and York.

- Accommodation: Ripley offers a range of accommodation options, with The Boar’s Head Inn being the most well-known in the village. This historic inn offers cosy, traditional rooms and an excellent on-site restaurant. For more options, nearby Harrogate provides a variety of hotels, B&Bs, and guest houses. Check out the links to recommended accommodation at the top of this page.

- Best Time to Visit: Ripley is a year-round destination, but spring and summer are particularly beautiful, when the castle gardens are in full bloom and the countryside is lush and green. The village is also lovely in autumn, with colourful foliage and crisp air making it perfect for scenic walks. Winter brings a festive charm, with the village and castle often hosting seasonal events such as Christmas markets and light displays.

- Local Events: Ripley hosts several events throughout the year. The monthly Farmers' Market is a great way to experience local produce and crafts. Ripley Castle also offers special events, including garden tours, Christmas fairs, and outdoor concerts in the summer. Check the local calendar before your visit to see if any events coincide with your trip.

- Food and Drink: Ripley’s main dining option is The Boar’s Head Inn, which offers traditional Yorkshire cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. The inn is popular for its Sunday roasts and afternoon teas, but it also has a fine selection of local ales and wines. If you're looking for more choices, Harrogate is just a short drive away and boasts a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and bars.

- Exploring the Surroundings: While Ripley is small, it’s an excellent base for exploring North Yorkshire. Nearby Harrogate offers a variety of attractions, including the famous Turkish Baths and RHS Garden Harlow Carr. For nature lovers, Nidderdale AONB is on your doorstep, offering walking trails and picturesque villages. A short drive will also take you to Knaresborough, where you can enjoy riverside walks and visit the historic Knaresborough Castle.

- Local Transport: The village is small enough to explore on foot, with all major attractions within easy walking distance. If you’re looking to explore the wider area, having a car is recommended, though public transport links are available to nearby towns like Harrogate and Ripon. Parking is available at Ripley Castle for visitors.