Ripon Tourist Attractions
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A good starting point for tours in Wensleydale is Ripon, situated on the Skell, a tributary of the Ure, crossed by a bridge of nine arches. Ripon is not really part of the true Wensleydale.The small town of Ripon contains many houses, the oldest of which is the former chapel of 14th century St Anne's Chapel.
Cathedral
Ripon's main attraction is its cathedral, originally a monastery founded in 657 by Alchfrith. The cathedral's attraction lies in the variety of styles it incorporates. Its oldest parts, the choir and transepts, date from the time of Roger of Pont (Archbishop of York 1154-1181). The Early English west front was constructed between 1220 and 1230; the east end (Decorated) in about 1300. The nave and parts of the central tower are Perpendicular. The interior also shows a variety of styles. The choir shows Transitional, Early English and Decorated work. The triforium is the only one in England to be glazed. Particularly fine are the 34 misericords of the choir-stalls (1489/1494). The Anglo-Saxon crypt was built by St Wilfred in 670 as a confessio for the display of relics.
Newby Hall and Gardens
Newby Hall (14mi/22km north) is a delightfully situated manor house renovated by Robert Adam in 1770. It is famed for its collection of tapestries and statues, but its gardens are also worth seeing.The 25 acres of formal gardens include tropical, rock and water displays as well as a vast woodland area. There is also an adventure garden for the children and miniature railway rides by the river.
Lightwater Valley Theme Park
The most popular rides at Lightwater Theme Park include 'The Ultimate' (1.5mi rollercoaster), 'The Wave' (74ft swingboat) and 'The Rat' (world's only underground rollercoaster). There are also less scary rides for children.Next door is the Lightwater Village and factory shopping.
