Things To Do – in Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon, and the surrounding North Yorkshire villages, from famous attractions and historic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visit magnificent gardens and heritage sites, browse local farm shops and art galleries, or keep younger visitors entertained at children’s play centres and with a huge choice of family activities. Discover fascinating museums, enjoy open-air activities, catch a performance at one of the area’s theaters, or head into the countryside for walking, riverside trails, and spectacular Yorkshire scenery. Spend the day exploring Harrogate’s elegant streets and gardens, Knaresborough’s picturesque riverside, historic Ripon, and the beautiful surrounding villages. Whether you’re planning a holiday, weekend break, or family day out or wondering what to do today, the Harrogate Guide makes it easy to find new places and experiences across this remarkable part of North Yorkshire.

Things to Do in Harrogate

Elegant, historic and surrounded by beautiful countryside, Harrogate combines gardens and green spaces with heritage attractions, entertainment, shopping and family activities.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr

Explore one of Yorkshire’s finest gardens, where spectacular seasonal planting, woodland, streams, kitchen gardens and family play areas make this an excellent day out throughout the year.

There’s plenty for serious garden enthusiasts, but Harlow Carr is equally enjoyable for families looking for fresh air, beautiful surroundings and somewhere for children to explore.

Address: Crag Lane, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate, HG3 1QB
Website: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr

Turkish Baths Harrogate

Step inside one of Harrogate’s most distinctive historic attractions and experience the spa heritage that helped make the town famous.

With its spectacular Moorish interiors and traditional bathing experience, the Turkish Baths offer something very different for visitors looking to relax in the heart of Harrogate.

Address: Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2WH
Website: https://www.turkishbathsharrogate.co.uk/

Valley Gardens

One of Harrogate’s best-loved green spaces, Valley Gardens combines colourful planting, woodland, lawns and recreational areas just a short walk from the town centre.

Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic or bring the family and make use of the play and leisure facilities.

Address: Valley Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ
Website: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

Royal Pump Room Museum

Discover the fascinating story of Harrogate’s rise as one of Britain’s most fashionable spa destinations.

The museum explores the town’s mineral springs, unusual treatments and the generations of visitors who travelled to Harrogate in search of health, relaxation and fashionable society.

Address: Crown Place, Harrogate, HG1 2RY
Website: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

Montpellier Quarter

Spend some time exploring one of Harrogate’s most attractive quarters, characterised by historic architecture, independent boutiques, specialist shops, galleries, cafés, bars and restaurants.

It’s an ideal area for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, eating and exploring.

Location: Montpellier, Harrogate, HG1
Website: https://montpellierharrogate.co.uk/

The Stray

One of Harrogate’s defining features, The Stray provides around 200 acres of open grassland surrounding the town centre.

Walk, run, picnic, play games or simply find a quiet spot to relax. In spring, parts of The Stray become particularly colourful with displays of crocuses and cherry blossom.

Location: Harrogate

Mercer Art Gallery

Discover changing exhibitions alongside works from Harrogate’s permanent fine art collection at this cultural attraction close to the town centre.

Address: Swan Road, Harrogate, HG1 2SA
Website: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

Harrogate Theatre

Enjoy drama, comedy, live music, family entertainment and touring productions at Harrogate’s historic theatre.

The venue also stages the town’s popular annual pantomime and provides a varied programme throughout the year.

Address: Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF
Website: https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/

Harrogate Climbing Centre

Looking for something more energetic? Try indoor climbing and bouldering at Harrogate Climbing Centre.

It’s a particularly good option for active families, teenagers and anyone wanting to try a different indoor activity.

Address: Hookstone Chase, Harrogate, HG2 7DB
Website: https://www.harrogateclimbingcentre.com/

Pinewoods

Escape into the trees without travelling far from central Harrogate.

The Pinewoods form an attractive green corridor between Valley Gardens and RHS Garden Harlow Carr, with woodland paths providing a simple and free outdoor adventure.

Location: Harrogate

Harrogate Ringway

Discover the countryside surrounding the town on the Harrogate Ringway.

You don’t have to complete the entire circular route: choose a shorter section for an enjoyable family walk or build it into a longer day’s adventure.

Location: Various starting points around Harrogate

Harrogate Heritage Plaques

Turn an ordinary walk through Harrogate into a journey through local history by looking out for plaques marking notable people, buildings and events.

Location: Harrogate

Harrogate Convention Centre

Check what’s happening during your visit. Harrogate Convention Centre hosts major exhibitions, conferences, shows and special events throughout the year.

Address: King’s Road, Harrogate, HG1 5LA
Website: https://www.harrogateconventioncentre.co.uk/

Things to Do in Knaresborough

Few Yorkshire towns offer a setting quite like Knaresborough. Medieval streets descend towards the River Nidd, while the famous railway viaduct towers above the waterside.

Castles, caves, riverside walks, rowing boats and historic landmarks make it an excellent place for a full day out.

Knaresborough Castle & Courthouse Museum

Explore the remains of Knaresborough’s medieval castle, discover fascinating chapters from the town’s history and enjoy one of Yorkshire’s most photographed views across the River Nidd towards Knaresborough Viaduct.

Address: Castle Yard, Knaresborough, HG5 8AS
Website: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/

Mother Shipton’s Cave

Discover the legend of Mother Shipton, visit the famous Petrifying Well and enjoy a walk through woodland alongside the River Nidd.

It’s one of Knaresborough’s best-known attractions and a popular choice for families.

Address: Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD
Website: https://www.mothershipton.co.uk/

Rowing Boats on the River Nidd

Take to the water for one of the classic Knaresborough experiences.

Hire a traditional rowing boat and paddle along the River Nidd beneath the spectacular stone arches of Knaresborough Viaduct.

Location: Waterside, Knaresborough

Knaresborough Riverside

Follow the River Nidd through one of the town’s most picturesque areas.

Stop for an ice cream, coffee or something to eat, watch the rowing boats and enjoy wonderful views towards the castle and viaduct.

Location: Waterside, Knaresborough

Bebra Gardens

Escape into these attractive gardens between Knaresborough Castle and the riverside.

Their location makes them an easy addition to a family day exploring the castle, town centre and River Nidd.

Address: Brewerton Street, Knaresborough, HG5 8AZ

Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag

Discover one of Knaresborough’s more unusual historic treasures: a medieval chapel carved directly into the sandstone cliff.

Location: Abbey Road, Knaresborough

St Robert’s Cave

Explore a fascinating riverside site associated with the medieval hermit St Robert of Knaresborough.

Combine a visit with a walk along the River Nidd and the historic Abbey Road area.

Location: Abbey Road, Knaresborough

Conyngham Hall Grounds

Enjoy green space beside the River Nidd or use the grounds as the starting point for a longer walk through the surrounding countryside.

Address: Bond End, Knaresborough, HG5 9AY

Knaresborough Market

Browse the stalls in the Market Place and experience the atmosphere of one of Yorkshire’s best-known historic market towns.

Combine your visit with Knaresborough’s independent shops, cafés, castle and riverside.

Location: Market Place, Knaresborough

Nidd Gorge

Leave the streets behind and explore beautiful woodland paths beside the River Nidd.

Look out for birds and wildlife or turn your visit into a longer walking adventure between Knaresborough and Harrogate.

Location: Between Knaresborough and Harrogate

Things to Do in Ripon

Compact, historic and full of character, Ripon combines a magnificent cathedral with museums, gardens, waterways and one of Yorkshire’s most unusual nightly traditions.

It’s also an excellent base for exploring Fountains Abbey, Newby Hall and the surrounding countryside.

Ripon Cathedral

Step inside one of Yorkshire’s great historic buildings and discover magnificent architecture spanning centuries.

Don’t miss the remarkable seventh-century Anglo-Saxon crypt, one of the cathedral’s most fascinating features.

Address: Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QT
Website: https://riponcathedral.org.uk/

Ripon Workhouse Museum

Discover the realities of Victorian workhouse life through historic rooms, exhibitions, collections and the workhouse garden.

Address: 75 Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE
Website: https://riponmuseums.co.uk/

Prison & Police Museum

Enter historic cells and discover stories of crime, punishment and policing through the centuries.

Address: St Mary’s Gate, Ripon, HG4 1LX
Website: https://riponmuseums.co.uk/

Courthouse Museum

Step inside a remarkably preserved Georgian courthouse and discover how justice was administered in previous centuries.

Address: Minster Road, Ripon, HG4 1QS
Website: https://riponmuseums.co.uk/

Ripon Canal

Follow the towpath for an easy walk beside the water.

Look for ducks, birds and other wildlife or simply enjoy a peaceful escape within easy reach of Ripon’s historic centre.

Location: Ripon

Ripon Spa Gardens

Enjoy colourful planting, open space and a relaxing stroll close to Ripon city centre.

Address: Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX

Ripon Hornblower

Head to Ripon’s Market Place at 9pm to experience the city’s famous tradition of setting the watch.

The nightly ceremony provides visitors with an unusual connection to centuries of Ripon history.

Location: Market Place, Ripon, HG4 1BP
Website: https://www.riponcity.gov.uk/

Ripon Racecourse

Enjoy a day at one of Yorkshire’s most attractive racecourses, with racing fixtures held throughout the season and selected meetings offering additional entertainment.

Address: Boroughbridge Road, Ripon, HG4 1UG
Website: https://www.ripon-races.co.uk/

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden

Allow plenty of time for one of the outstanding days out near Ripon.

Explore the spectacular ruins of Fountains Abbey before wandering through lakes, woodland, parkland and the elegant Georgian Studley Royal Water Garden.

With such an extensive estate to discover, it’s equally suited to history enthusiasts, photographers, walkers and families looking for a full day outdoors.

Address: Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/fountains-abbey-and-studley-royal-water-garden

Things to Do at Newby Hall

Newby Hall & Gardens

Combine an impressive country house and beautiful gardens with extensive family attractions and outdoor play.

Newby Hall is particularly well suited to families who want a day out offering something for both adults and children.

Address: Skelton-on-Ure, Ripon, HG4 5AE
Website: https://www.newbyhall.com/

Markenfield Hall

Markenfield Hall

Hidden in the countryside near Ripon, Markenfield Hall is a remarkable medieval moated manor house.

Its atmospheric setting makes it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in architecture and Yorkshire history. Public access is limited, so check opening dates before travelling.

Address: Markenfield Hall, Ripon, HG4 3AD
Website: https://www.markenfield.com/

Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park

Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park

Follow woodland paths around lakes and through colourful gardens while discovering contemporary sculptures hidden throughout the landscape.

This unusual attraction near Grewelthorpe combines art, nature and peaceful countryside in one memorable day out.

Address: The Hutts, Hutts Lane, Grewelthorpe, Ripon, HG4 3DA
Website: https://www.himalayangarden.com/

Things to Do in Ripley

Ripley Castle & Gardens

Explore the historic castle and its grounds before spending time discovering the attractive estate village and surrounding countryside.

Address: Ripley, Harrogate, HG3 3AY
Website: https://www.ripleycastle.co.uk/

Ripley Village

Wander through this picturesque Yorkshire village, browse local businesses, stop for refreshments and continue into the surrounding countryside on one of the local walking routes.

Location: Ripley, Harrogate, HG3

Things to Do in Spofforth

Spofforth Castle

Explore atmospheric medieval ruins associated with the powerful Percy family.

Its open setting makes Spofforth Castle particularly enjoyable for families and anyone who enjoys discovering historic places at their own pace.

Address: Castle Street, Spofforth, Harrogate, HG3 1DA
Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/spofforth-castle/

Spofforth Village

Combine the castle with a stroll around Spofforth or follow local footpaths into the surrounding Yorkshire countryside.

Location: Spofforth, Harrogate, HG3

Things to Do in Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge

Explore a traditional Yorkshire high street lined with independent shops and cafés before heading into the spectacular countryside of Nidderdale.

Location: Pateley Bridge, HG3

Nidderdale Museum

Step inside recreated shops, rooms and workshops filled with objects that tell the story of everyday life in Nidderdale.

Address: The Old Workhouse, King Street, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5LE
Website: https://www.nidderdalemuseum.com/

Stump Cross Caverns

Head underground for a very different Yorkshire adventure.

Explore spectacular limestone caves and fascinating geological formations beneath the landscape near Pateley Bridge.

Address: Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5JL
Website: https://www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk/

Coldstones Cut

Walk to this enormous public artwork overlooking Coldstones Quarry and take in panoramic views across the surrounding Nidderdale landscape.

Location: Greenhow Hill, near Pateley Bridge, HG3 5JQ
Website: https://www.coldstonescut.org/

Brimham Rocks & Summerbridge

Brimham Rocks

One of the area’s great outdoor adventures, Brimham Rocks is filled with extraordinary natural rock formations shaped over millions of years.

Follow the paths, discover strange shapes and passageways and enjoy spectacular viewpoints across the surrounding countryside.

It’s a particularly memorable choice for families who want children to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Address: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, HG3 4DW
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/brimham-rocks

Birchfield Family Dairies

Enjoy a family farm experience featuring animals, seasonal activities and locally produced ice cream.

Location: Summerbridge, Harrogate, HG3
Website: https://www.birchfieldicecream.co.uk/

Upper Nidderdale & Lofthouse

How Stean Gorge

Explore a spectacular limestone gorge or book an organised outdoor experience for a more adventurous day in Nidderdale.

Address: Lofthouse, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5SF
Website: https://www.howstean.co.uk/

Studfold Adventure Trail

Turn a countryside walk into a family adventure with activities and discoveries along the route.

Address: Lofthouse, Harrogate, HG3 5SG
Website: https://www.studfold.com/

Scar House Reservoir

Pack a picnic and head into one of Upper Nidderdale’s most dramatic landscapes.

The reservoir and surrounding countryside provide impressive views and excellent opportunities for walking and photography.

Location: Upper Nidderdale

Gouthwaite Reservoir

Enjoy beautiful scenery and excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, birdwatching and landscape photography.

Location: Between Pateley Bridge and Lofthouse

Walks Around the Washburn Valley

Fewston Reservoir

Enjoy waterside and woodland walking in the beautiful Washburn Valley.

It’s a good choice for families looking for a relatively easy countryside adventure surrounded by water, woodland and open scenery.

Location: Near Blubberhouses

Swinsty Reservoir

Follow peaceful paths beside the water, stop for a picnic and combine your visit with neighbouring Fewston Reservoir for a longer day outdoors.

Location: Washburn Valley

Thruscross Reservoir

Discover a more rugged reservoir landscape surrounded by woodland, moorland and open countryside.

Location: Near West End, North Yorkshire

Things to Do in Masham

Explore Masham

Discover a traditional Yorkshire market town known for its independent shops, galleries, cafés, pubs and famous brewing heritage.

Masham also makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Location: Masham, North Yorkshire, HG4

Masham Riverside

Take a leisurely walk beside the River Ure, enjoy the surrounding countryside and then return to Masham for shops, cafés and refreshments.

Location: Masham, North Yorkshire

Boroughbridge & Aldborough

Explore Boroughbridge

Discover this historic riverside town, browse its local businesses and use it as a starting point for exploring some of the fascinating archaeological sites nearby.

Location: Boroughbridge, YO51

Devil’s Arrows

Challenge the family to find these enormous prehistoric standing stones close to Boroughbridge.

They provide a fascinating reminder that people have occupied and shaped this North Yorkshire landscape for thousands of years.

Location: Boroughbridge, YO51

Aldborough Roman Site

Discover the remains of the Roman town of Isurium Brigantum and see impressive surviving mosaic floors.

Address: Aldborough, Boroughbridge, YO51 9ES
Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/aldborough-roman-site/

West Tanfield

Marmion Tower

Explore the surviving medieval gatehouse of a former manor house in the attractive village of West Tanfield near Ripon.

Address: West Tanfield, Ripon, HG4 5JX
Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/marmion-tower/

Allerton Mauleverer

Allerton Castle

Discover one of North Yorkshire’s most dramatic Gothic buildings.

The spectacular architecture and interiors make this a striking local landmark. Check ahead for tours, events and public opening opportunities before making a special journey.

Address: Allerton Mauleverer, Knaresborough, HG5 0SE
Website: https://www.allertoncastle.co.uk/

Bishop Monkton

Explore Bishop Monkton

Discover a picturesque North Yorkshire village known for its beck, little bridges and attractive traditional buildings.

Combine a wander through the village with a longer countryside walk.

Location: Bishop Monkton, North Yorkshire, HG3

Burton Leonard

Explore Burton Leonard

Escape to a peaceful Yorkshire village surrounded by attractive countryside and local walking routes.

Location: Burton Leonard, North Yorkshire, HG3

Explore the Nidderdale National Landscape

Beyond the towns and visitor attractions lies some of the most spectacular countryside in this part of Yorkshire.

The Nidderdale National Landscape provides countless opportunities to slow down, get outdoors and explore.

Walking & Hiking

Choose anything from a gentle family stroll to a full day’s hike through moorland, woodland, river valleys and traditional Yorkshire villages.

Family Cycling

Explore quiet country lanes and rural routes, choosing a distance suitable for your family’s ages, confidence and experience.

Wildlife Watching

Take your binoculars and look for birds and other wildlife around reservoirs, rivers, woodland and open countryside.

Family Picnics

Pack lunch and turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure at one of the area’s reservoirs, parks, riversides or countryside viewpoints.

Photography

Give children a camera or phone and set them a photography challenge. Look for wildlife, landscapes, castles, unusual rock formations, historic buildings and village landmarks.

Countryside Adventures

Families looking for something more adventurous can find professionally organised climbing, caving, gorge walking and other instructor-led outdoor experiences across Nidderdale.

Website: https://nidderdale-nl.org.uk/

Free Things to Do

A great day out doesn’t always need to cost anything.

There are plenty of free things to do around Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon, including:

• Walking across The Stray
• Exploring Pinewoods
• Strolling along Knaresborough Riverside
• Walking beside the Ripon Canal
• Exploring Spofforth Castle
• Discovering the Devil’s Arrows
• Walking around local reservoirs
• Exploring historic villages
• Following countryside footpaths
• Wildlife watching and photography
• Discovering local heritage and landmarks

Remember that parking charges or other optional costs may apply at some locations.

Family Days Out

Families are particularly well served across the Harrogate district.

For younger children, gardens, farm attractions, rowing boats and adventure trails provide plenty of variety. Older children and teenagers can try climbing, caves, countryside adventures and longer walks.

For a memorable family day, consider combining nearby attractions. Explore Knaresborough Castle, Bebra Gardens and the riverside in one visit, or make a full day of Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal.

Rainy-Day Things to Do

Yorkshire weather doesn’t always cooperate, but that doesn’t mean the day has to be wasted.

Good options for wetter days include Ripon’s museums, Ripon Cathedral, the Royal Pump Room Museum, Mercer Art Gallery, Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate Climbing Centre and Stump Cross Caverns.

Always check opening times and booking requirements before travelling.

Discover More Around Harrogate

Looking for something specific? Continue exploring Harrogate UK with our specialist local guides.

FOOD & DRINK
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/food-and-drink-in-harrogate/

FARM SHOPS
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/farm-shops-in-harrogate/

ART GALLERIES
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/art-galleries-in-harrogate/

CHILDREN’S PLAY CENTRES
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/childrens-play-centres-in-harrogate/

FAMILY ACTIVITIES
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/family-activities-in-harrogate/

MUSEUMS
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/museums-in-harrogate/

OPEN-AIR ACTIVITIES
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/open-air-activities-in-harrogate/

THEATRES
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/theatres-in-harrogate/

WALKING TRAILS
https://harrogateuk.co.uk/walking-trails-in-harrogate/

Find Your Next Day Out

From castles, gardens and museums to caves, rowing boats, climbing, adventure trails, reservoirs and spectacular countryside, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon and the surrounding area offer an enormous variety of things to see and do.

Families can explore caves and castle ruins. Couples can enjoy gardens, riverside walks and historic towns. Teenagers can tackle climbing and outdoor adventures, while history lovers can travel from Roman Britain and medieval Yorkshire to the golden age of Harrogate’s famous spa.

And with so many parks, footpaths, riversides, reservoirs, villages and historic landmarks to explore, some of the best experiences cost absolutely nothing.

Whether you’re searching for things to do today, things to do this weekend, family days out, free attractions, rainy-day activities, outdoor adventures or places to visit near Harrogate, use Harrogate UK to discover somewhere new.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?
Email info@harrogateuk.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help.