Ripley Castle: A Storied North Yorkshire Fortress and Estate
Explore Ripley Castle’s 700-year legacy, Gothic architecture, tranquil gardens, and haunting tales near Harrogate in North Yorkshire.
Ripley Castle, located near Harrogate in North Yorkshire, is a historic 700-year-old castle and estate that has been the Ingilby family seat for centuries. The castle features striking Gothic architecture, extensive gardens with an orangery and pavilions, a deer park, and a rich history involving royal connections, civil war, and religious intrigue. Although the castle itself is currently closed to visitors, its grounds and gardens remain open for exploration, offering a captivating glimpse into England’s past.
A brief summary to Ripley Castle
- Harrogate, Ripley, HG3 3AY, GB
- +441423770152
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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 year-round from 10am to 3pm; the castle interior is currently closed to visitors.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Boar’s Head pub or the estate’s coffee shop after exploring the scenic deer park and gardens.
- Look out for the historic glasshouses and orangery, remnants of the estate’s Victorian horticultural heritage.
- Explore the nearby village of Ripley, rebuilt in Gothic style by the Ingilby family, for a complete historical experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the 36 bus service from Harrogate to Ripley village, running every 20 minutes with an approximate journey time of 15 minutes. The bus stops near the estate entrance. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Drive from Harrogate via the A61, approximately 6 km north. Parking is available on site with a charge; the first hour (£1) can be redeemed in estate shops or cafes. Expect a 10-15 minute drive.
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Train plus Bus
From Leeds or York, take a train to Harrogate (40 minutes from Leeds, 30 minutes from York) then connect with the 36 bus to Ripley. Combined travel time is about 1.5 hours. Train tickets range from £10-£20.
Ripley Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Ripley Castle
Enduring Legacy of the Ingilby Family
Ripley Castle has been the ancestral home of the Ingilby family for over 700 years, a rare continuity that reflects resilience through England’s turbulent history. The estate was acquired in 1308 through the marriage of Sir Thomas Ingilby to Edeline Thwenge, and the family crest—a boar’s head—commemorates a legendary act of bravery when Thomas saved King Edward III from a wild boar attack. The Ingilbys played significant roles in national events, including supporting the Royalist cause during the English Civil War and involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The castle’s priest holes underscore the family’s steadfast Catholic faith amid persecution during the Tudor era.Architectural Evolution and Estate Features
The castle’s architecture reflects centuries of development, with the gatehouse dating from around 1450 and the prominent tower from the 16th century. In the late 18th century, Sir John Ingilby undertook substantial rebuilding, including the addition of service courts, stables, and coach houses designed to complement the Gothic style. His son, Sir William Amcotts Ingilby, further enhanced the estate with extensive garden improvements, glasshouses, and the rebuilding of the village of Ripley in a Continental Gothic style. The estate includes a walled garden, orangery, pavilions, and a large ornamental lake, all set within a deer park dotted with ancient oak trees.Gardens, Grounds, and Natural Beauty
Ripley Castle’s gardens and grounds are a highlight for visitors, showcasing Victorian horticultural expertise with historic glasshouses once used to cultivate tropical plants and fruit. The deer park offers scenic walks amidst centuries-old oaks, and the ornamental lake provides picturesque waterside views of the castle’s turrets and crenellated walls. These outdoor spaces are open to the public year-round, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the estate’s tranquil and scenic environment.Haunted History and Legends
The castle is reputedly haunted, with several ghost stories linked to its long history. Notable apparitions include a female figure believed to be Lady Alicia Ingilby, who mourned the loss of her children in the 19th century, and the spirit of Francis Ingilby, a priest executed for his faith who hid in the castle’s priest hole. The grounds are also said to be haunted by soldiers from the Civil War era. These tales add a layer of mystique to the castle’s rich historical narrative.Visitor Experience and Facilities
While the castle itself is currently closed to visitors, the gardens and grounds remain accessible daily from 10am to 3pm, except on Christmas and New Year’s Day. The estate includes a tearoom, coffee shop, and the Boar’s Head pub, alongside unique shops on the grounds. Educational programs and guided tours are available, offering insights into the castle’s history and the Ingilby family legacy. The village of Ripley, owned by the estate, complements the visit with its charming Gothic-style architecture.Location and Accessibility
Situated about 3 miles north of Harrogate, Ripley Castle is easily reached by car, with parking available on site (charges apply but the first hour can be redeemed in estate outlets). Public transport options include the 36 bus service connecting Leeds and Ripon via Ripley village, running every 20 minutes and taking approximately 15 minutes from Harrogate. The nearest train stations are in Harrogate, with connections to York and Leeds. The estate also features accessible facilities including wheelchair routes, accessible toilets, and hearing loops, making it welcoming to a broad range of visitors.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Gothic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
