Table of Contents
Walk through history in historic Richmond
Often referred to as the northern gateway to the Dales, Richmond offers a welcome blend of history and beautiful scenery. Walk even a short distance and you’ll stumble across Norman, mediaeval and Georgian architecture, picturesque ruins and fascinating stories. Follow the history of the region’s Green Howards regiment, experience the rowdiness of 18th Century theatre or discover Richmond after dark on a ghostwalk in the castle keep.
A stroll around the Georgian town of Richmond or a challenging hike through the wooded valleys of the River Swale, being just a short distance away from the Yorkshire Dales means there’s plenty of hills, woodland and mountains to explore.
‘Embrace the View’s – Historic Buildings and Stunning Landscapes
What could possibly be better than a combination of both historic architecture and stunning landscapes? I would expect the answer to be nothing. In Richmond, it has it all, the Norman stone fortress – Richmond Castle, and its magnificent views from its towering keep. Kiplin Hall & Gardens which stands in the beautiful countryside of the Vale of Mowbray, Mill gate House Gardens, overlooking the river swale and its surrounding landscape and many more historic buildings.
All Aboard!
All Aboard! Once the town’s busy railway terminus, the magnificently restored Victorian building that is The Station is now home to a stylish café bar and restaurant; a modern, two-screen cinema; a spacious art gallery over two floors; and a shop selling locally sources products. The Station is another strong part of Richmond Heritage being transformed in 2007 from a torn up Victorian railway terminus to a stylish café bar and restaurant, two screen cinema and art gallery. Visitors can also find out about the colourful history of Richmond railway by visiting the interactive heritage centre located in the old booking office near the main entrance.
‘Let the Festivities Begin’ – Swaledale Festival
Just outside the town of Richmond, Swaledale festival is held, offering a wide range of entertainment and activities for all the family. These festivities include performances from a variety of top class musicians from around the world, Art, Poetry and Drama exhibitions held in the local venues such as village halls, churches, pubs, and castles. Guided walks will also be available for you to explore the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales.
‘These boots were made for walking’ – Richmond Walking and Book Festival
Be inspired and invigorated at Richmond’s Walking and Book Festival, where you will be able to engage in weekend and evening book events and offering you the chance to meet well-known authors and also discover new ones. Graded walks are also available each day, to allow you to explore the beautiful Yorkshire dales. Whether it is a stroll around the historic town of Richmond or a challenging hike through Swaledale, there’s something for all abilities. Other activities will also be on offer including orienteering, mountain bike trials and the opportunity to try out the northern loop of the Tour De France route.
Kiplin Hall and Millgate House Gardens
If you’re fond of historic architecture then Richmond is the place to be. Kiplin Hall & Gardens stands in the beautiful countryside of the Vale of Mowbray in between the town of Richmond and Northallerton. This original Jacobean house has now been furnished as a comfortable Victorian home, and offers visits including woodland and lakeside walks, the 18th century Walled Garden, the Rose and Sensory gardens and a newly planted White Garden. There is also Millgate house which is a Georgian house with award winning gardens overlooking the River Swale. Existing since the eighteenth century, the walled gardens have won first prize out of 3200 entries in the RHS National Garden Competition and therefore is definitely worth a visit.