Walking Routes

Ripon Spa Gardens

Ripon Spa Gardens

Established in the late 19th century as part of the spa movement, the gardens were originally designed to enhance the experience of visitors coming to enjoy the

Ripon Spa Gardens, located in the historic city of Ripon, North Yorkshire, is a beautifully maintained public park offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Victorian leisure culture. Established in the late 19th century as part of the spa movement, the gardens were originally designed to enhance the experience of visitors coming to enjoy the reputed therapeutic benefits of the nearby spa waters. Today, they remain a cherished green space, blending natural beauty with artistic and historical elements.

The gardens feature a lush landscape of carefully manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and mature trees, creating a serene environment for both locals and tourists. One of the standout features is the Victorian bandstand, where traditional brass bands often perform during the summer months, continuing a long-standing community tradition. The ornate, cast-iron structure adds to the park's historical charm, surrounded by colorful seasonal flowers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Ripon Spa Gardens is home to a number of sculptures and monuments, including the Sun Parlour, a charming building that now operates as a tearoom. There is also a formal bowling green, reflecting the park’s heritage as a place for recreation. A well-loved children’s play area, along with a putting green and a Crazy Golf course, provide family-friendly activities, ensuring the park caters to visitors of all ages.

With its peaceful paths, benches to sit and admire the views, and seasonal planting schemes, Ripon Spa Gardens offers a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and recreation. Its proximity to Ripon’s city center makes it a popular spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and community events throughout the year, celebrating the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area.

City Centre Discovery Trail
This easy city stroll begins outside Ripon’s Georgian Town Hall, before taking you on a journey of discovery around the ancient City of Ripon.
City Centre Discovery Trail II
This easy city stroll begins outside Ripon’s Cathedral, before taking you on a journey of discovery around the ancient City of Ripon. In such a small area, ther
City Centre & River Skell Discovery Trail
This easy City centre stroll begins outside Ripon’s Georgian Town Hall, taking you on a journey past a rich tapestry of historic buildings, the Spa Gardens & a
Studley Royal Circular
This circular walk takes you along the River Skell to Studley Royal Deer Park before returning to Ripon through picturesque fields.
Riverside Ramble
Starting outside Ripon Town Hall, this route takes you on a journey through historic streets, past a 12th Century Chapel & along sections of the River Skell & U
Canal Walk
Starting outside Ripon Town Hall, this walk snakes its way along Ripon Canal & seamlessly blends the glorious Yorkshire countryside with Ripon’s unique urban en
The Mayor's Walk
A One mile route through Ripon's historic streets with the opportunity to visit three social history museums.
The Miller's Walk
A 1.5 mile walk along the River Skell featuring views of Ripon Cathedral and Ripon's historic architecture.
The Fishermen's Walk
A city and country walk including stretches of Ripon's two main rivers and views of the surrounding countryside.
The Navigator's Walk
Explore Ripon Canal and encounter a diverse range of wildlife.
The Monk's Walk
Walk in the footsteps of Monks with this moderate walk to Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey.
The Fountains Way
A rewarding way to arrive at Fountains Abbey on foot, via rural paths from Ripon and the stately lime avenue through Studley Royal Deer Park.
Hell Wath Nature Trail
Wander down Hell Wath path in Ripon, along the River Skell, through woodland glade, meadows and hedgerows.