Ripley Castle and Gardens
A Legacy of Centuries
Ripley Castle has stood as the ancestral seat of the Ingilby family for over seven centuries, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited estates in England. The castle’s origins trace back to the early 1300s when Sir Thomas Ingilby married the heiress Edeline Thwenge, acquiring the estate as her dowry. Over the centuries, the Ingilbys played pivotal roles in English history, from saving kings to participating in major political upheavals. The family crest, a boar’s head, commemorates Sir Thomas Ingilby’s heroic act of saving Edward III from a wild boar during a hunting expedition. The castle’s architecture reflects its long history, with the impressive gatehouse dating from around 1450 and the tower from the 16th century.Architectural and Horticultural Evolution
The castle’s current appearance is largely the result of significant renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries. Sir John Ingilby rebuilt the castle in the late 1700s, and his son, Sir William Amcotts Ingilby, continued to enhance the estate with extensive improvements. The service court, stables, and coach houses were designed to complement the Gothic style of the castle, while the gardens were transformed with the addition of glasshouses and ornamental features. The estate’s gardens reached their heyday in the Victorian era, with head gardeners specializing in tropical plants and fruit cultivation. The deer park, with ancient oak trees, and the ornamental lake add to the estate’s scenic beauty.Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
Ripley Castle has been a witness to some of England’s most turbulent periods, including the Wars of the Roses, the Gunpowder Plot, and the English Civil War. The Ingilby family’s involvement in these events is reflected in the castle’s architecture and artifacts, such as the priest hole discovered in 1963 and the grand cantilever staircase beneath a stunning armorial stained-glass window. The estate’s connection to royalty is evident in the visits of James I and the service of Ingilby family members to Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. The castle’s grounds have also been used as a filming location for historical dramas, further cementing its place in popular culture.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Today, Ripley Castle and Gardens offer a rich and immersive experience for visitors. The estate is open to the public year-round, with the gardens and grounds accessible daily. The tearoom, coffee shop, and Boar’s Head pub provide refreshments, while the estate’s shops offer unique souvenirs. The estate is family-friendly, with accessible facilities and guided tours that bring the castle’s history to life. The surrounding countryside, with its deer park and woodland, invites exploration and relaxation. The estate’s proximity to Harrogate and the Yorkshire Dales National Park makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.A brief summary to Ripley Castle
- Harrogate, Ripley, HG3 3AY, GB
- +441423770152
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the gardens and grounds for a peaceful stroll and to see the ornamental lake and deer park.
- Check the estate’s events page for special activities and guided tours.
- Explore the estate’s shops and enjoy refreshments at the tearoom or Boar’s Head pub.
- Take advantage of the accessible facilities and guided tours for a family-friendly experience.
- Visit during the spring or summer for the best views of the gardens and grounds.
Getting There
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Car
Drive from Harrogate via the A61, taking approximately 10 minutes to reach Ripley Castle. Parking is available on-site with a charge, but the first hour can be redeemed as credit towards purchases at estate outlets.
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Bus
Take the 36 bus service from Leeds to Ripon, which passes through Ripley village every 20 minutes. The journey from Harrogate takes about 15 minutes.
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Train
Travel by train from York to Harrogate (30 minutes) or Leeds to Harrogate (40 minutes), then take a local bus or taxi to Ripley Castle.
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Cycle
Use the Harrogate to Ripley Cycle Route 67, which offers a scenic ride through the countryside and takes about 30 minutes from Harrogate.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Almscliffe Crag
11.6 km
A majestic Millstone Grit outcrop near Leeds and Harrogate, famed for climbing, sweeping valley views, and rich folklore.
REMAINS OF FORMER KIRBY HALL
17.4 km
Explore the evocative remains of Kirby Hall and the iconic Thompson Mausoleum, treasures of North Yorkshire’s 18th-century aristocratic heritage.
Thornborough Henges
18.7 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Thornborough Henges, a vast Neolithic ritual landscape known as the Stonehenge of the North, free to visit and steeped in ancient mystery.
King Alfred's Castle
22.2 km
An evocative 18th-century folly in Leeds, celebrating King Alfred’s legacy with historic charm and architectural romance.
Roundhay Castle
22.7 km
A picturesque early 19th-century folly offering panoramic views within Leeds’ expansive and historic Roundhay Park.
Upper Lakeside Bandstand
22.8 km
Historic Upper Lakeside Bandstand in Roundhay Park, a serene lakeside venue for music and community in Leeds’ iconic green space.
Lakeside Bandstand
23.2 km
A serene lakeside landmark in Roundhay Park, blending history, music, and nature in one of Leeds’ grandest green spaces.
Chapel Allerton Arts Festival
23.5 km
A vibrant, community-driven arts festival celebrating music, crafts, and creativity in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Oakwood Clock
24.0 km
Historic Oakwood Clock Tower in Leeds: Over a century of community heritage and timeless charm at Roundhay Park’s edge.
Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills
26.5 km
Step inside the world’s largest historic woollen mill and discover Leeds’ rich industrial heritage through authentic machinery and engaging exhibits.
Civic Hall
26.5 km
A majestic Grade II* listed municipal building in Leeds, famed for its golden owls and grand civic ceremonies.
Leeds City Museum
26.6 km
Explore the rich history and diverse exhibits at Leeds City Museum, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of Leeds, England.
Millennium Square
26.6 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Leeds at Millennium Square, where culture, events, and local flavors come together in a stunning urban setting.
Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing Leeds
26.6 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing Leeds, where fun meets competition in a vibrant atmosphere with great food and drinks.
Salts Mill
26.6 km
Explore Salts Mill: A historic art center in Saltaire showcasing David Hockney's masterpieces, delightful cafés, and a charming bookstore.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cold Bath Brewing Co
5.3 km
Discover the vibrant world of craft beer at Cold Bath Brewing Co, a beloved microbrewery and pub in Harrogate, where quality meets community.
Royal Pump Room Museum
5.4 km
Step into Harrogate’s spa heritage at the Royal Pump Room Museum, where Victorian elegance meets the story of healing waters in a striking octagonal building.
The Little Ale House
5.4 km
Discover the heart of Harrogate at The Little Ale House, where craft beer and friendly atmosphere blend for an unforgettable pub experience.
Antiques on High Harrogate
5.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and expert-curated antiques in the charming setting of Harrogate’s Antiques on High.
Oxford St
5.5 km
Oxford Street in Harrogate blends historic charm with diverse shopping, offering a vibrant retail experience in the town’s heart.
The Stray
6.2 km
A vast, historic green oasis in Harrogate, celebrated for its blossoms, open spaces, and vibrant community spirit.
Mother Shipton's Cave
7.1 km
Explore England’s oldest visitor attraction where legend, nature’s magic, and family fun meet in a scenic woodland by the River Nidd.
Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum
7.5 km
Discover medieval history and stunning river views at Knaresborough Castle and Courthouse Museum, a timeless Yorkshire treasure.
Fountains Abbey
7.7 km
Explore England’s largest monastic ruins nestled in a stunning Georgian water garden and deer park, a World Heritage Site rich in history and natural beauty.
National Trust - Brimham Rocks
8.1 km
Explore Yorkshire’s mystical Brimham Rocks, a natural wonderland of ancient stone sculptures and vibrant heather moorland with stunning valley views.
St Robert's Cave
9.0 km
Discover the serene medieval hermitage carved into limestone cliffs, where St Robert of Knaresborough lived and inspired centuries of spiritual pilgrimage.
Plumpton Rocks
10.0 km
Discover the enchanting 18th-century landscape garden of Plumpton Rocks, where dramatic rock formations meet tranquil lakes and woodland trails in North Yorkshire.
Nidderdale Llamas
10.5 km
Discover the charm of Nidderdale with gentle llama trekking through stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside at this family-run farm experience.
Ripon Cathedral
11.0 km
Explore Ripon Cathedral’s 1,350-year legacy, from England’s oldest crypt to stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant community life.
The Oldest Sweet Shop In The World
13.4 km
Step back in time at the world's oldest continuously trading sweet shop, a beloved historic gem in Pateley Bridge since 1827.
Essential places to dine
Quirky Farm Bistro
5.5 km
A cozy, independent bistro in Harrogate serving heartfelt breakfasts and brunches with a unique blend of British, Italian, and Caribbean flavors.
THE BLUES BAR - YORKSHIRE TAPAS
5.6 km
Savor Northern British classics tapas-style with live blues music in Harrogate’s vibrant and cozy Blues Bar venue.
Horto Restaurant
8.9 km
Seasonal British small plates in a bright, elegant setting at Rudding Park’s kitchen garden-inspired Horto Restaurant.
Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall
9.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred British cuisine crafted from North Yorkshire’s finest local ingredients in an elegant countryside setting.
The Willow Restaurant & B&B
13.4 km
A cozy British bed and breakfast with a celebrated restaurant, nestled in the scenic Yorkshire Dales market town of Pateley Bridge.
Crab & Lobster Hotel & Restaurant
18.5 km
Eclectic seafood dining and uniquely themed rooms combine for a memorable stay in tranquil North Yorkshire countryside.
Where There's Smoke Restaurant
21.0 km
Experience bold smoky flavors and artistic dining in Masham’s Michelin-starred Where There's Smoke, a unique culinary gem with local roots.
The Box Tree Restaurant
21.0 km
A historic fine dining gem in Ilkley, blending classical French techniques with modern European flair in a charming sandstone setting.
The Olive Branch
22.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Roundhay, Leeds at The Olive Branch.
Deer Park Hotel Leeds
22.1 km
Classic British gastropub in leafy Roundhay: stylish interiors, hearty plates, family roasts, and event-ready spaces for every occasion.
Banyan Bar & Kitchen
22.2 km
Discover Banyan Bar & Kitchen: A premier gastropub in Roundhay offering delicious food, vibrant ambiance, and local culture.
La Petite Bar & Restaurant
22.2 km
A cozy Mediterranean haven in Leeds offering fresh, flavorful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for every occasion.
Toby Carvery Chapel Allerton
23.0 km
Classic British carvery fare served in a friendly, casual setting in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
The Queens Arms
23.1 km
Hearty Toby Carvery roasts and real ales in a spacious Chapel Allerton pub, blending tradition with reliable chain dining from 8am daily.
Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn
23.2 km
Experience authentic Yorkshire Dales hospitality with hearty food, local ales, and rustic charm at Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Karma - Clothing & Gift Boutique
11.0 km
Discover sustainable bohemian fashion and unique handcrafted gifts in Ripon’s vibrant Karma boutique.
Grove Bookshop
21.0 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Ilkley’s heart, perfect for browsing new releases, children’s books, travel guides and local events.
Oaks
22.2 km
Unique fashion finds in Roundhay's chic boutique haven—discover curated styles, personalized service, and timeless pieces that define your wardrobe.
Preloved Roundhay
22.2 km
Unearth pre-loved treasures at this St George's Crypt charity shop in Roundhay, blending thrift hunting with community support in Leeds' leafy suburbs.
Our Handmade Collective
22.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from over 110 local makers in a welcoming Horsforth boutique that celebrates creativity and quality.
Roary and Buddy
22.8 km
Discover heartfelt gifts for tricky occasions at this Roundhay gem, where unique finds and local charm make every purchase special.
In Your Dog House Gifts
23.2 km
Paw-some gifts and doggy delights in Chapel Allerton's quirkiest boutique—where every tail wag inspires a perfect find for furry friends and their fans.
The Gifted Blogger
23.4 km
Explore The Gifted Blogger in Chapel Allerton, Leeds for unique gifts and handmade crafts that celebrate local creativity and artistry.
Chirpy
23.4 km
Design-led gift shop in Chapel Allerton, brimming with stylish homewares, unique cards, and creative workshops that inspire joy and craftsmanship.
Glasshouse Gallery
23.4 km
Uncover handcrafted wonders and local artistry in Chapel Allerton's creative gem, where every shelf sparks inspiration and supports regional makers.
Angels Too
23.5 km
Uncover handmade magic and local artistry at this Chapel Allerton gem, where quirky gifts and artisanal treasures await on every shelf.
Eco Queen
23.8 km
Sustainable gifts and eco-elegance in Chapel Allerton's heart: chinaware, candles, and custom baskets for mindful living.
The Collective Revolution
23.9 km
A compact, trend-led clothing boutique in Roundhay offering curated seasonal pieces and a relaxed, gallery-like shopping atmosphere.
LW Home & Decor
24.0 km
Explore LW Home & Decor in Headingley, Leeds for unique furniture and accents that elevate your home aesthetics with local charm and style.
Tom's House
24.1 km
A small, curated Chapel Allerton shop where homewares meet antiques — intimate browsing and surprising finds in a domestic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Best Bar Harrogate
5.3 km
Lively and friendly bar on Parliament Street offering expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience in Harrogate.
The Thomas Osborne
22.1 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring affordable pints, seasonal bites, and lively nights with sports, DJs, and karaoke in a refurbished traditional haven.
The Bar on Park Lane
22.2 km
Cozy Roundhay pub pouring real ales and good times in a welcoming neighborhood nook near expansive parklands.
The Roundhay Fox
22.7 km
Cosy Vintage Inn pub in Roundhay, serving hearty British roasts and ales steps from lush parklands—a Leeds local's haven for relaxed dining.
Beck and Call
23.2 km
Chapel Allerton's cozy community pub: cask ales, hearty British dishes, sports screens, family play area, and fireside charm in a stylish suburban haven.
Further North
23.3 km
A cosy, two-storey Chapel Allerton bar with a curated drinks list, community events and a front-room atmosphere.
Regent
23.4 km
Historic 1827 Victorian pub pouring Yorkshire cask ales, live sports, quizzes, and patio vibes in Chapel Allerton's lively heart.
Bricklebank's Cafe & Bar
23.6 km
Chapel Allerton’s cosy café-by-day, lively bar-by-night serving coffee, brunch and cocktails in a warm, intimate setting on Stainbeck Lane.
Woodies Craft Ale House
23.6 km
Savor Yorkshire craft ales amid industrial chic at Headingley's go-to pub, where hearty grub, live tunes, and Otley Run vibes create unforgettable evenings.
The Three Horseshoes
23.7 km
Lively Headingley pub fueling the Otley Run with pizzas, roasts, live music, sports screens, and student spirit—your go-to for pints and pool.
Canteen
23.7 km
A cosy, no-frills Chapel Allerton bar serving generous pizzas, sandwiches and local drinks in a warm, neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Three Hulats
23.9 km
Budget-friendly Wetherspoon pub in vibrant Chapel Allerton, serving all-day breakfasts, real ales, and classic grub from dawn till deep into the night.
Alley Cats Cafe Bar & Music Emporium
24.0 km
Cozy retro bar-diner in Chapel Allerton serving epic burgers, craft pints, and vinyl-fueled vibes for unforgettable neighborhood nights.
The Melbourne
24.1 km
A friendly Oakwood wine-forward bar on Roundhay Road — intimate seating, well-chosen bottles and a relaxed local vibe.
Preston
24.1 km
A relaxed Oakwood neighbourhood pub with a wide beer selection, friendly service and a down-to-earth local vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
New Inn
23.8 km
Traditional Headingley pub with roaring fires, cask ales, and community spirit on lively Otley Road—a cozy cornerstone of Leeds life.
Arabian Night Lounge
26.4 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Popworld - Leeds
26.5 km
Relive noughties glory in Leeds' ultimate cheesy pop nightclub, where cocktails pop and dances don't stop till dawn.
PRYZM
26.6 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
The Key Club
26.7 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
26.8 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Home Nightclub Leeds
26.8 km
Leeds' £2.5M superclub: VOID sound, pyrotechnic spectacles, multi-room vibes from house anthems to urban grooves—pure festival energy underground.
Disco Stu's
26.9 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Warehouse
26.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at The Warehouse, Leeds’ energetic club destination.
Quadrophenia Night
27.1 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Wire
27.2 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
The HiFi Club
27.2 km
Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
The Space
27.2 km
Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
ULTRA
27.3 km
Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
27.3 km
A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
