New Historical Map of Ripon Revealed

If you like history or just want to know more about where you live, there’s some great news from Ripon. A brand new historical map is about to be published which covers over 2,000 years of this small city’s history from its ancient beginnings to the 20th century. It’s not just any map though – it’s full of interesting facts about the city’s buildings, people and landmarks that shaped its history.

This folded map, produced by Ripon’s history and architecture experts, is more than a guide. It takes you on a journey through time, showing you not only the buildings that still stand but also those that have disappeared. You’ll learn about medieval markets, lost mills and even the Ripon Hornblower, a figure still part of local tradition today.

Ripon’s past in pictures

The map is more than just a tool to find your way around town. It looks into the city’s connections with major historical events like its links with Fountains Abbey from the 12th century and its role in World War I when a massive army camp was set up nearby. You’ll also discover some of the quirky bits of history like Ripon’s spur-making trade which was so famous that a saying arose: “as true steel as Ripon rowels.” And did you know Ripon was home to the first ever women’s horse race in 1723?

Whether you live here or are just visiting, this map will give you a fascinating glimpse into Ripon’s history from its earliest days to the present.

What’s on the back of the map

On the other side of the map you’ll find a gazetteer – a mini-encyclopaedia – with illustrations of Ripon’s buildings and descriptions of the key locations. There’s information on everything from the city’s ancient mills and bridges to the rivers and famous landmarks like the 7th century crypt beneath Ripon Cathedral, the oldest in northern Europe.

£11.99 from various outlets in Ripon or online. A must-have for history enthusiasts and curious minds.

Ripon loves it

Even His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Jo Ropner, is impressed. She calls it “a valuable resource for unearthing the city’s history” thanks to its clean design and historical detail. Ripon is the latest town to be mapped by The Historic Towns Trust who have previously mapped other towns across the UK.

Get out and about or just want to know more about Yorkshire’s secrets? Don’t miss Ripon’s story on this map!