Location: Ripon
Top Things to do in Ripon
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Things to do in Ripon, England: The Best Nature & Parks
Ripon (/ˈrɪpən/) is a cathedral city in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. Historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, it is located at the confluence of two tributaries of the River Ure, the Laver and Skell. The city is noted for its main feature, Ripon Cathedral which is architecturally significant, as well as the Ripon Racecourse and other features such as its market. The city itself is just over 1,300 years old.
Restaurants in Ripon
1. Talon Falconry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 125 reviews
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.
2. Newby Hall and Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 830 reviews
A fantastic family day out. Amazing Adventure Playground, Spectacular Gardens and Elegant Georgian House. Dollshouse Exhibition, Teddy Bear House, Sculpture park, Restaurant & Shop..the perfect place to meet up with friends and family
Reviewed By joannabE1718GW - Cumbria, United Kingdom
I have been coming to a Newby since a tiny child and am now in my forties so this place is full of nostalgia for me. If you are looking for modern, bling, fast food etc then this may not be for you! This is a oasis for nature lovers, gardeners, lovers of historic houses and children with imagination who are happy with traditional style pleasures and good old fashioned playing. The adventure playground is in the old walled garden. It has swing boats, climbing frames, swings, a zip wire, paddle boats, a sand pit etc . Pretty much the only thing that has changed is the addition of water jets rather than the blue painted paddling pool that was formerly there. The miniature railway is a favourite for all ages and of considerable length - a great way to glimpses of the gardens which are absolutely stunning to explore. The Hall itself is beautiful and the restaurant, plant shop and gift shop are well worth a visit. There is also an amazing dolls house exhibition, sculpture garden, teddy bear museum and replica Crown Jewels exhibition. My only constructive criticism is that the coffee served in the restaurant is very bitter - almost undrinkable! and the cup size seems to have got smaller! For me - the beauty of Newby is that it doesn’t change - it retains its uncommercialised magic and just gets better!
3. Ripon Rowel Walk
4. Ripon Canal
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
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.
Reviewed By tommyb079 - York, United Kingdom
The best of Ripon is along the canal, it’s nature, it’s unpolished waters edge, it’s bird life and wildlife within a short stroll of the cathedral truly is Ripon’s heart. Enjoy
5. Spa Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
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.
Reviewed By johnhouston2 - Knaresborough, United Kingdom
As we live in nearby Knaresborough we visit Ripon quite often and, when we do, we always have a stroll round this lovely little park. And as town centre parks go, this one is certainly on the small side, which I actually like. The flower beds are currently in full bloom for the spring season and look absolutely lovely. The little cafe is open, albeit solely for takeaways at the moment, so it is very pleasant to get a hot drink and sit on one of the benches taking in the peaceful atmosphere and lovely view.
