Things to do in Ripon

Welcome to your adventure through the Yorkshire Dales! This self-guided journey will take you through some of the region’s most iconic sites, blending breathtaking landscapes with rich history and charming local culture. Start with Fountains Abbey, where you’ll wander through the grand ruins of a once-thriving medieval abbey, surrounded by gardens that feel like stepping back in time. The abbey’s towering stone arches and tranquil setting make it one of the region’s most awe-inspiring spots. Next, visit Jervaulx Abbey, a hidden gem among Yorkshire’s monastic ruins. Once a great Cistercian monastery, today it stands as a romantic, ivy-clad ruin where you can explore at your own pace. The peaceful, flower-filled grounds make it a perfect stop for quiet reflection and appreciation of the abbey’s storied past. As you make your way to Bolton Castle, prepare to explore a genuine medieval fortress with interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Here, you can walk ancient hallways, see traditional displays of falconry, and climb to high points for sweeping views of the Dales. Moving on, take in the beauty of Aysgarth Falls, a series of tiered waterfalls ideal for a peaceful, scenic walk. Then, experience local life in Hawes, a market town famous for its Wensleydale cheese stop by for a sample and a peek into the cheese-making process. For a secluded natural wonder, head to Hardraw Force, England’s tallest single-drop waterfall hidden in a lush, wooded area that feels like your own private oasis. Then, at Coldstones Cut, marvel at panoramic views from this sculptural viewpoint overlooking an old quarry a unique place to connect with the landscape. Finally, let your journey end at Brimham Rocks, where surreal rock formations invite you to climb, explore, and take in the vast, open views of the Dales. Each stop on this tour offers a new way to experience Yorkshire’s remarkable beauty and history.

Welcome to Nidderdale, a hidden gem in the Yorkshire Dales, waiting to be discovered from the comfort of your car. This driving tour guides you through an enchanting landscape of history, natural wonders, and local charm, all accessible at your own pace. Begin your journey at Fountains Abbey, where you'll explore the majestic ruins of an ancient monastery and wander through its serene Georgian water gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending history with beauty. Continuing on, you’ll encounter the gravity-defying Brimham Rocks, incredible formations that seem as if playful giants have stacked them, creating a natural sculpture park like no other. Your drive takes you next to the charming market town of Pateley Bridge, home to England's oldest sweet shop, where a stop is essential for a nostalgic treat. As you ascend to Coldstones Cut, Yorkshire’s largest public artwork, prepare for breathtaking views from a dramatic viewing platform above a working quarry. For a final stop, the peaceful trails of Fewston Reservoir await, with tranquil lakeside views and woodland paths, perfect for a short stroll and some fresh air. This driving tour through Nidderdale is your window into an inspiring landscape of culture, history, and natural beauty—each stop more memorable than the last.

Day 1: You leave London and travel to the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-up-Avon. Home to the bard’s birthplace, schoolhouse, and resting place, you have time to explore this charming market town and enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants and riverside pubs. You then head to the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge close to the Welsh border. Set in a stunning gorge of the River Severn, the historic valley boasts the world’s first bridge made of iron, as well as a host of other attractions. Then, travel to the beautiful town of Shrewsbury to check in to your accommodation for the next 2 nights. Day 2: Today, you will head into the heart of North Wales and visit the picture book castle of Conwy, built by Edward I in the late 13th century. Marvel at the mountain scenery of Snowdonia National Park, including the huge Dinorwic slate quarries and the dramatic Pass of Llanberis in the shadows of the highest mountain peak in Wales. Hear tales of Owain Glyndwr and the Welsh struggles for independence before traveling back through the borderlands into England. Day 3: Northeast of Shrewsbury lies the Peak District National Park, a landscape of rugged moorland, walled pastures, and wooded valleys. As you travel through, you'll see picturesque villages and stunning scenery. After a scenic drive, you arrive in Buxton, a spa town known for its natural thermal springs, popular since Roman times. You can even fill your bottle with water from the famous spring. In the afternoon, visit Chatsworth, the Duke of Devonshire's renowned stately home, famous for its vast collection of art and furniture. Heading north, you pass through England’s former industrial heartlands before reaching York, where you'll stay for two nights. Day 4: Today you have the option to spend the day at leisure exploring the medieval heart of York. Wander the streets of a city with a rich history that dates back to the time of the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. Visit some of York’s fascinating museums, and the stunning York Minster, or just lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets. Alternatively, join your guide on a half-day excursion into the Yorkshire Dales to visit the pretty market towns of Knaresborough or Ripon. Continue your scenic drive of the remote valleys and rugged scenery of the Eastern Dales, before returning to York for a free afternoon. Day 5: Depart the fair city of York in the morning, stopping in the town of Lincoln, famed for its beautiful historic center and delicious Lincolnshire sausages. Continue to the university City of Cambridge, where you can stroll the medieval streets in the shadow of the dreamy spires of historic colleges, including the famous Kings College Chapel. Take a guided punting ride along ‘the backs’ of the colleges, or climb the steps of St Mary’s tower to get a skyline view before heading back to London.