A day out in Ripon, North Yorkshire

One favourite location, for locals and tourists alike, is just outside of Ripon itself and lies in the beautiful landscape of nature and ruins. Fountains Abbey is a 10 minute drive from the centre of Ripon, and is coated with history and general beauty. Whether you are a historian at heart and wanting to learn more about the Abbey, looking for a place to walk around, or simply come and relax under the beautiful Yorkshire sky, this place has it all. No matter the weather, you are drawn to the ruins in all of their glory. Offering plenty of grounds to sit and enjoy lunch, as well as lots of routes to venture down, Fountains Abbey is directly adjacent to Studly Royal Water Garden which is a place of pure tranquility. It only takes a short walk to get from one to the other, following the River Skell. Dogs are also welcome, so they don’t have to be left behind on this unforgettable family day out in yorkshire. 

The short 10 minute drive back into Ripon finds that there are so many places to go to, one is spoilt for choice. There are three interactive museums perfectly designed for hours of entertainment. Why not learn about the story of poverty, crime and punishment in Yorkshire. Visitors can buy one ticket for all three museums, covering a year of visits, so there is no need to rush through all three in one day. This is a trip suitable for all, so whether you have children or just want to find out more about Yorkshire, this is the place to come.   

One other place full of events and exhibitions is Ripon Cathedral. Doubling up as a fantastic events location, the Cathedral offers music by candlelight, silent discos and more. Events quieten down over the summer months to allow for other activities, but from September through until the following June, there is plenty to watch out for. By day, the Cathedral holds lots of hidden treasures. One to look out for is the misericords (carvings on choir seats) inspired by the characters from Alice in Wonderland. 

After a long day exploring Yorkshire, there is only one place to stay in Ripon. Unbridled, located just a 15 minute walk (4 minute drive) from the centre, is a luxury holdiay home with everything to offer the weary traveller. Once within the grounds, you feel a million miles away from the bustle which Ripon endures, and you are free to relax and enjoy the luxury features. There is outdoor seating to soak in the summer evenings, as well as a hot tub to rest and relax from. The large garden gives a sense of division between the gamig and relaxing spaces, whilst also feeling as though everyone is involved no matter which part of the garden they are using. 

Inside offers open plan living for easy maneuvering between the kitchen, dining, living and outside spaces. There are a total of five bedrooms, all with en-suites, so that there is no rush to freshen up. The property can be divided into two separate spaces; one two-bed and one three-bed or used as a whole five bedroom home. Either set up works really well as guests can flow through this stunning Ripon holiday cottage without it feeling separate, but when each property is used individually, you feel as though you can enjoy your private time.  

Unbridled is very well located in Ripon and is a hidden treasure. With plenty to do and places to go, this is the perfect place to rest your head at night and rejuvenate.