Richmond, the Castle, the River
Richmond is a total gem of a market town in North Yorkshire (DL10 4QL). It’s got that classic “hilly” feel with cobbled streets and a massive marketplace that feels like stepping back in time.
The Castle
The big star is Richmond Castle. It’s right in the town centre and sits high on a cliff. People love the “Cockpit” garden for a chill stroll, but the real highlight is climbing the keep. It’s a bit of a workout, but the views of the Dales are some of the best you’ll get. It’s a great spot for families to let off steam, though it’s worth noting the ground can be uneven, so wear decent shoes.
The River and the Falls
Just a short walk down from the town is the River Swale. The Richmond Falls are iconic—they aren’t massive vertical drops, but more like a series of dramatic rocky steps. In the summer, people love to picnic on the rocks or paddle in the shallows.
- The Route: There’s a lovely, mostly level circular walk that takes you from the Falls, along the river, and out towards the ruins of Easby Abbey. It’s about 3 miles total, largely off-road and surfaced, making it great for a relaxed family wander or a cycle.
- Keep an eye out: The Abbey ruins are free to explore and make for a perfect halfway “adventure” stop.
Around Town
Don’t miss The Station. It’s an old railway station converted into a multi-activity hub with a cinema, ice cream parlour, and brewery. It’s right by the river walk and is a local favourite for a rainy day or a post-walk treat.
Money-Saving Tips & Logistics
- Budgeting: Eating out in the town centre can get a bit pricey. Many visitors suggest grabbing a picnic to eat by the Falls or at the Castle to save some cash.
- Memberships: If you’re a family that travels a lot, an annual membership for the Castle (via English Heritage) usually pays for itself in just a few visits to similar sites.
- Parking: The marketplace has parking, but it fills up fast and has a time limit. You’re often better off using the larger car parks near the Nun’s Close area or down by The Station.
- Discounts: Always ask about Senior or Blue Light discounts at the Castle, as they are usually available.
Time & Nearby Fun
Expect to spend a full day here if you’re doing the Castle and the river walk. If you have extra time, you’re right on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, so you could easily combine this with a drive further into the hills for a more rugged adventure.