Richmond, North Yorkshire
Richmond is filled with impressive Norman castles and stunning Georgian architecture and is awash with stunning scenery, resting as it does just on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Richmond is a place that has attracted writes and artists for centuries that come to the ancient town to seek inspiration for their work. It is a truly beautiful town with a character that seems to set itself apart from some of its neighbours, perhaps that is because nothing very much has changed here over the last few centuries. It is a town that caters for visitors exceptionally well and they are not left wanting for places to eat and drink, from traditional Yorkshire tea rooms to traditional dining experiences. Richmond is regarded as being one of the most beautiful towns in the country and it is a reputation that is well deserved.
About Richmond
The town is one that was founded by the Norman invaders in 1071, with the town spreading out from around the imposing Norman castle at its heart. The castle was built upon what the Norman’s referred to as the ‘Riche-Mont’ meaning strong hill, and so the town was named. The castle still very much dominates the landscape here and is hard to miss. There are several towns that go by the name of Richmond within the UK, but this one in North Yorkshire was the very first. It was an important town during medieval times. The town also prospered during the Georgian era with many impressive buildings being constructed including Europe’s first gas works. The cobbled marketplaces are regarded as being the largest in England and have the ancient Church of the Holy Trinity at their centre.
Things to See and Do
There is much to do in the county of Yorkshire as a whole from visiting the ancient city of York with its Viking connections, to enjoying some seaside fun at one of the many coastal towns in the county. Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo is not too far away and makes a great place to spend the day with the kids. Yet there are attractions set within Richmond itself that are worthy of visiting too.
No visit to the town would be complete without paying a visit to Richmond Castle. It is widely believed to be one of the first castles constructed from stone since the time of the Roman occupation. The castle has had many uses over the centuries, from fortified stronghold to its time as a prison. The castle was where conscientious objectors were sent during the Second World War. The view from the 30metre high castle tower is incredible.
The Richmondshire Museum offers a lot of information on the history of the region, including exhibitions relating to the early inhabitants who lived in caves, through to James Herriot veterinary surgery. Those with a passion for military history will enjoy a visit to the Green Howards Museum which tells you all about this famous Yorkshire regiment. 2013 marks the museums 40th anniversary of celebrating the history of the regiment.
