Wanting to
Visit Us
Glorious Ripon Cathedral will surprise you. With free entry you can explore this beautiful medieval cathedral and its intriguing Anglo-Saxon crypt, dating from 672AD. It’s the oldest structure of any cathedral in England still in use today.
Find unusual treasures of art and design at every turn, some of which are thought to have inspired ‘The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland.’ Soak up the cathedral’s breath-taking architecture and discover a unique oasis of peace in a busy world.
Visit Quick Links
Key
Visitor Information
Ripon Cathedral is in the heart of the city and entrance is free. Join a tour led by one of our guides or pick up a leaflet to explore the cathedral’s many hidden treasures.
Opening Hours
Monday – Saturday
8am to 6pm
Shop: 10am to 5pm (4pm close in winter)
Sunday
8am to 5pm
Shop: 12noon to 3.30pm (closed Sundays in January & February)
Free Visitor Entry
Find us
Location
Ripon Cathedral
Minster Road
North Yorkshire
HG4 1QT
Find
Things to do
join
Tours and Trails
We offer guided tours with one of our knowledgeable and passionate volunteers who will help you enjoy the full splendour of the cathedral’s long history and uncover its many hidden treasures.
Alternatively, pick up a trail leaflet which will guide you independently around the cathedral at your own pace. We have options for young people too. One of our welcomers will help you get started.
Plan
School Visits
Fill your students with awe, wonder and intrigue with a trip to the cathedral. With interactive workshops to support learning in EYFS and Key Stages 1 & 2, this is a fantastic place to bring your classroom learning to life. We also welcome visits from older school groups.
Our dedicated education days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but self-guided school visits are welcome at other times.
Plan
Group Visits
Ripon Cathedral rewards the inquisitive explorer, with so much to see and 1350+ years of history to discover. We can offer tours, talks and refreshments for your group.
We welcome groups and coach parties and would be very happy to discuss options with you, please get in contact in good time to plan your visit.
individual and group
Pilgrimages
Ripon Cathedral has been a destination for pilgrims since Medieval times. Today it remains extremely popular with both individuals and groups, who want to use this remarkable sacred space to explore their own faith.
We have a wide variety of pilgrimage trails inspired by Ripon Cathedral available from the welcome desk.
discover the ancient
Heritage
Ripon Cathedral’s fascinating history dates back to 672AD when Wilfrid, the Abbot of Ripon, inspired by a visit to Rome, built a magnificent basilica here. Some 1350 years later, the Anglo-Saxon Crypt remains intact.
Discover more of the cathedral’s ancient past and the many works of art and craftmanship that have been created during the centuries that followed.
FAQs
Bike
Cyclists can use the bike racks which are located to the north of the cathedral or behind the noticeboards on the west front.
Car
The cathedral is just 6 miles from the A1(M) J50.Parking is only 150 yards away at the St Mary Gate & Cathedral Car Park (Sainsburys).
Onsite disabled parking is limited. Please ring the Chapter House on 01765 602072 to book. Additional parking is available in St Mary Gate & Cathedral Car Park.
Bus
Via the 36 bus which runs every 20 minutes from Harrogate or Leeds.
Train
The nearest train station is at Harrogate, with a connecting bus from Ripon (the 36) which runs through visiting hours at least once every half an hour.
Cathedral
Level access into the cathedral is via the main entrance. There is an automatic door at the main entrance which is wheelchair accessible.
The floor, as in any historic building, can be uneven. We have wheelchairs available on request and you are never far away from a seat if you require one.
Library and Treasury
Access to the library and treasury is via a staircase. Unfortunately we do not currently have a lift, though plans are in place for this.
Crypt
The crypt is accessed via a staircase and through a narrow passageway. These is a touchscreen walkthrough at ground level for those unable to gain access to the crypt.
Please be aware that the crypt is occasionally closed for services.
Parking
Parking is available at St Mary Gate & Cathedral Car Park (Sainsburys)
There are limited spaces for Blue Badge holders on the cathedral forecourt, please ring ahead on 01765 602072 to arrange this.
Visiting the cathedral is completely free of charge; however, donations are gratefully received as they help support the vital work we do in running and maintaining this magnificent building.
The cathedral runs inexpensive guided tours and hosts many ticketed events such as fairs and concerts.
Unfortunately, for hygiene & safety reasons, we don’t permit dogs access to the Cathedral. Assistance dogs are welcome.
We welcome visitors taking images within the cathedral but politely ask that you purchase a photography permit as you enter for a small fee.
Coach groups are very welcome. We can offer tours, talks and refreshments for your group.
Coaches can park in the St Mary Gate & Cathedral Car Park (Sainsburys).
In Ripon we are spoilt for choice when it comes to visitor attractions, cafes, independent shops and restaurants. Make a full day or even a weekend trip.
Ripon Cathedral is committed to providing a welcoming, respectful and safe environment for all, including children and adults who may be at risk of abuse or neglect.
The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in cathedral activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of the cathedral community.
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