Visit Richmond
Richmond is a bustling market town sitting at the gateway to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. It is best known for its impressive Norman castle, large cobbled market place, stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque waterfalls. The town is also home to Britain's most complete Georgian playhouse and has three popular museums and many other interesting places to visit.
Yet the town's appeal is not just confined to its historic monuments and spectacular scenery. It is also an exciting and vibrant place with individual shops, contemporary art galleries and a good choice of pubs, restaurants and bars.
There is a traditional outdoor market on Saturday, joined by a busy farmers' market on the third Saturday of the month. The early Victorian Market Hall is open daily with a range of stalls, and on Sundays a craft fair is held.
The town is also the gateway to some of Britain's most beautiful countryside, making it an ideal base for walking, cycling and other outdoor pursuits. Within easy travelling distance are an abundance of ancient castles, stately homes, picturesque gardens and numerous other venues for interesting days out. The historic towns of York and Harrogate are also within easy reach.
Two popular walks from The Station
Richmond is a walker's paradise, with many interesting routes in and around the town. Details of the most popular routes, including the Town Trail and Turner Walks (following in the footsteps of the great artist who was based in the town during the 19th century) are available from the Tourist Information Centre.
Many walks incorporate The Station - which lies close to the River Swale - but two short walks can be done from The Station that take in some of the most amazing views and scenery in the area.
The Easby circuit
This 3km circular, fairly flat route goes as far as Easby Abbey and has lots to interest even the youngest members of the family.
From The Station, walk down the old railway line (away from the town) towards Easby Abbey. The path follows the picturesque River Swale and then curves round until you come to the Abbey itself. You can stop here and explore the tranquil ruins of this 12th century former home to an order of Premonstratensian monks or visit St Agatha's Church next door which displays some fine Medieval frescoes. Both are open to the public, free of charge, all year round.
From here, walk up the road in the direction of Easby village and take a left turn along a track which takes you back towards Richmond, following a path on the other side of the river. There is the option of a lower or higher route once you have crossed the meadow - the lower one hugging the banks of the river, the higher one running a few metres above alongside a sports field. Both paths meet at the Drummer Boy stone which tells the ill-fated legend of one of Richmond's most intriguing characters. Walk back along the lane towards Richmond, taking the first left turn just below St Mary's Church, and left again at the bridge on Station Bank.
The Fosse circuit
This 2km-long circular route has amazing views of the waterfalls and Richmond Castle.
From The Station, walk across Mercury Bridge towards the town. At the far end of the bridge, cross the road and go through a gate onto a grassy area in front of the river known as the Batts. To the right is a 19th century school building, which is noteworthy not least because it is was attended by the Alice in Wonderland author Lewis Carroll between 1844-45.
Follow the path alongside the river until you reach the magnificent waterfalls and from here take the low level road that lies beneath the towering Castle walls. (On your right at this point is a small play park, which may be a welcome stopping off point for young children.) At the end of the road, turn left to cross Green Bridge and at the other side take the footpath to the left, which leads back along the other side of the river.
Keep to the path above the sports field (Earl's Orchard) and follow the route back across the fields to The Station. Once at Mercury Bridge, go under the bridge and use the steps on the other side to climb back up to the car park.
For more information about Richmond, including local news and events, places to stay and visit, local arts and businesses, history and traditions visit Richmond Online.
