Visit Richmond - Yorkshire's Original

Discover Richmond

Discover Richmond, Yorkshire, which was founded by the Normans in 1071. To this day, Richmond is a vibrant market town, set around a large and interesting marketplace, alongside the impressive Richmond Castle, which overlooks the River Swale.

Richmond is the perfect entry point to the northern Yorkshire Dales, with a range of good food and drink and overnight stay options in and around the town. There is also a cinema, in the old station, several art galleries, a swimming pool and – or course – a range of glorious outdoor options such as walking, biking, horse riding and so much more.

It’s the Original Richmond, with 56 other Richmonds around the world named after it – and you should make sure you visit at least once.

Richmond Accommodation

There’s many places to stay, from hotels, B&Bs and a huge variety of self catering holiday cottages in the town and surrounding countryside. Because Richmond is the postal town for a lot of the surrounding villages, you’ll find a broad range of options dotted across the Richmond zone – there’s sure to be a perfect fit for your visit, but booking early in peak times is almost essential, at this popular town. See also our Richmond hotels page and B&Bs available.

Lily's Cottage in Richmond

Lily’s Cottage

1 Tower St., Richmond DL10 4JW, UK

Rose Cottage

Rose Cottage, Aldbrough St John, Richmond, DL11 7TJ

Virginia House

Northside, Scorton, Richmond, DL10 6DW

The Old Brewery

29 The Green, Richmond, DL10 4RG

The Annexe @ The Old Brewery

29 The Grn, Richmond DL10 4RG, UK

The Green Door

5 Market Pl, Richmond DL10 4HU, UK

Latest News & Inspiration


About Richmond

Visitors love the impressive castle keep, riverside setting and elegant Georgian architecture.

The fast-flowing River Swale meanders around the edge of the town offering lovely riverside walks from the former Station to the waterfall, the ruins of Easby Abbey or through Billy Banks Woods, which climb steeply above the river to Round Howe.

It’s no surprise that Richmond attracts so many artists – the views are stunning. The surrounding countryside delights walkers and cyclists alike.

Richmond is a gateway to the rugged beauty of Swaledale, and the Northern Yorkshire Dales.


Richmond 950

In 2021 in Richmond, the castle and the town celebrated a big birthday – as the town reached 950 years old!


Richmond on the map


Richmond Fact Pack

  1. Richmond is a market town in North Yorkshire, England, located on the River Swale.
  2. The town is known for its Georgian architecture and is considered one of the most attractive towns in the UK.
  3. Richmond is home to the ruins of a medieval castle, which was built by the Normans in the 11th century.
  4. The castle was one of the most important defensive structures in northern England during the medieval period.
  5. Richmond was founded in 1071 by the Normans, who named it “Riche Mount,” meaning “strong hill.”
  6. The town’s market square dates back to the 12th century and is still used for markets today.
  7. Richmond has a population of approximately 8,000 people.
  8. The town is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
  9. The town is home to the Green Howards Regimental Museum, which showcases the history of the regiment.
  10. The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond is the oldest working theatre in its original form in the UK.
  11. Richmond has a weekly market on Saturdays, where visitors can buy local produce, crafts, and gifts.
  12. The town is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Richmond Walking and Book Festival.
  13. The River Swale is popular for fishing, with salmon and trout being the main catches.
  14. The town has several parks and green spaces, including Richmond Castle Gardens and the Friary Gardens.
  15. Richmond is situated on the Coast to Coast Walk, a 192-mile long-distance footpath that runs across northern England.
  16. Lewis Carroll attended school in Richmond in 1844.

FAQs about Richmond, North Yorkshire

1. What is Richmond, North Yorkshire known for?
Richmond is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful countryside. It is home to the impressive Richmond Castle, the Georgian Theatre Royal, and the picturesque River Swale.

2. What are some popular activities to do in Richmond, North Yorkshire?
Visitors to Richmond can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring the town’s historic sites, hiking in the nearby Yorkshire Dales National Park, and shopping at the local markets and boutiques. The town also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Richmond Walking and Book Festival.

3. Is Richmond, North Yorkshire a good place to visit with children?
Yes, Richmond is a great place to visit with children. The town has several family-friendly attractions, such as the Richmondshire Museum and the Green Howards Museum. There are also plenty of outdoor activities for kids to enjoy, such as cycling, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

4. What is the best time of year to visit Richmond, North Yorkshire?
The best time to visit Richmond depends on your preferences. The town is beautiful year-round, but the summer months (June-August) are the busiest and offer the warmest weather. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

5. Are there any accommodations in Richmond, North Yorkshire?
Yes, there are several accommodations in Richmond, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages. Some popular options include The Castle Tavern, The Frenchgate Guesthouse, and The Old Brewery.


Where Next After Richmond, North Yorkshire

After visiting Richmond, North Yorkshire, a great place to visit next would be the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Just a short drive from Richmond, the park offers stunning scenery, including rolling hills, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and even caving in the park, as well as visiting local attractions such as Bolton Castle and Aysgarth Falls.

Head up Swaledale to the charming town of Reeth, or for urban conveniences, hit the A1 towards Ripon, Harrogate, Wetherby & Leeds.

The historic city of York is 1.5 hours drive away, and offers a wealth of attractions, including the famous York Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum. Alternatively, you could head to the coast and visit the charming seaside town of Whitby, famous for its connections to Bram Stoker‘s Dracula and its delicious fish and chips.

View more places in North Yorkshire.