The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Ripon, England

Markenfield Hall – tucked privately away along a mile-long winding drive, just three miles south of Ripon, has been described as Yorkshire’s best-kept secret. Not visible from the road, a glimpse of the imposing east wall cannot be seen until visitors reach the old Mediaeval road near to the top of the drive. But for a quirk of fate – and the turnpike act of 1777 – Markenfield would be one of the most recognisable houses in Yorkshire and the nearby A61 would run along this now-Bridleway just 100m from its façade.As it is, the house is approached from the A61 Ripon to Harrogate Road along a humble farm track, past agricultural buildings and farm workers cottages. Parking at the side of the moat, visitors approach the building on foot – walking over the bridge that now serves the house in place of the former drawbridge – and the moment the Mediaeval Courtyard opens up as visitors pass beneath the Tudor Gatehouse never fails to astound. Open to the public for just 28 days each year - or to groups by appointment at virtually any other time - the Hall is still privately owned and in the hands of dedicated custodians.

Located within a purpose built complex on our 175 acre site, you'll find our awe-inspiring Lightwater Valley Falconry, which is home to over 50 amazing raptors including Owls, Falcons, Eagles and Hawks. There are also Rheas, Snakes and our inquisitive Ferrets too!Established to raise awareness of a wide selection of breath-taking birds, this facility offers a truly unique experience. As well as having the opportunity to see how these amazing birds are trained and handled and to learn about every aspect of their daily lives, visitors have the chance to watch dramatic flying shows every day (during theme park opening hours). In fact, you could even volunteer to pull on a gauntlet and allow our trained raptors to land on your arm or have your photo taken with one of the magnificent creatures.Lightwater Valley Falconry is open all year round, and in addition to the main Bird of Prey Centre also offers a unique range of falconry attractions including Hawk Walks and Owl Experiences.

Ripon Cathedral traces its history back to its foundation by St Wilfrid in 672AD. The Anglo-Saxon crypt of St Wilfrid's church remains and is open to visitors. Choral evensong takes place Tuesday to Friday at 6pm and Sundays at 3.30pm. Details of all services may be found on our website. We are open to visitors daily throughout the year and entry is free, though we rely on generous donations to continue this practice. Most of the building is wheelchair accessible with the exception of the Library and the Anglo-Saxon crypt. There is a touch-screen computer interpretation of the crypt at ground level for those unable to access it.

Ripon Museums host the trio of the Workhouse Museum, The Prison & Police Museums and Ripon's Courthouse Museum. These museums interpret the history of Law and order and Social Justice through the 18th Century and beyond in Ripon and Yorkshire. Discover how the poor were treated, what the inmates ate and the hard labour that the paupers and vagrants undertook during their stay at the Workhouse. Become a school pupil in a Victorian classroom See the Collection of Police memorabilia and Victorian punishments in the old Liberty Prison. The Courthouse museum is a fine example of a Georgian building with costumes and props associated with the Victorian legal profession. Family activities during holidays are a great way for the children to be engaged with the history of the buildings and the stories of the past. Suitable for school visits with a comprehensive learning programme offered to teachers, lecturers and adult group leaders alike. Annual passes available for repeat visits too!

This idyllic rural waterway was once derelict, and nearly became a dumping ground for industrial waste. It was saved by the work of energetic local volunteers and campaigners and is now one of the country’s best canals for nature, and home to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest. We’re focusing on the upper reaches between Melbourne and Canal Head, which is not currently accessible by boat, but the towpath is open to walkers, and is a great place for spotting the wildlife and plants that thrive along the canal. The canal architecture also adds interest to the scenery, with distinctive swing bridges, classic hump-backed bridges and restored and unrestored locks. It’s a fantastic place to take the kids, have a picnic and travel west out of Melbourne on a trip boat to see the area from a totally different perspective.

Spa Gardens is a beautiful park right in the heart of Ripon with something for everyone. The gardens have been recognised for their high quality maintenance and facilities and have been awarded Green Flag status. Ripon's War Memorial has been named the Best War Memorial in the "town class" several times in the Yorkshire In Bloom awards.