Things To Do Near Ripon & Masham
Our own guide to the area: where we eat, drink, walk and take visitors, all within easy reach of the cottage.
Our Local Favourites
We live here, so this isn't a list copied from a tourist website. These are the places we actually go to, between Ripon, Masham and the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Ask us during your stay and we'll happily add more.
Places To Eat
Where There’s Smoke
Masham
If you’re into fine dining, this is a must. Listed in the Michelin Guide, with incredible food and a really intimate setting. Worth every penny, and book well ahead.
The Grantley Arms
Grantley
The country pub from Grantley Hall, one of the UK’s best-known luxury hotels. Formal or relaxed dining in a lovely countryside setting.
The Bruce Arms
West Tanfield
A great pub for dinner or Sunday lunch. Check the opening times before you go, as they can vary.
Portofino
Ripon
Good-quality, reasonably priced Italian food without any fuss. We go regularly, as the value is hard to beat.
E Sushi
Ripon area
A family-run independent with a striking interior and seriously good Japanese food. Have a look at its reviews.
Crumb
Masham
A proper bakery in Masham. Call in for fresh bread and pastries to take back to the cottage, or to fuel a day in the Dales.
Pubs & Coffee
The Bull Inn
West Tanfield
A great place to rehydrate after a walk or cycle over to West Tanfield.
The Crown Inn
Grewelthorpe
The perfect pint after a walk around Hackfall Wood.
Coffee At Number 10
Ripon
Arguably the best coffee in Ripon.
Places To Visit
Ripon Cathedral
Ripon
A 1,300-year-old cathedral right in the middle of Ripon. The city’s historic streets are underrated and well worth an evening stroll.
Masham
Gateway to the Dales
An old market town with real charm, full of good pubs, independent shops and places for coffee and ice cream. Known as the gateway to the Dales for good reason.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal
Near Ripon
The ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey and a Georgian water garden, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site run by the National Trust.
Lightwater Valley
North Stainley
The family theme park in the village itself, handy if you’re bringing children. Check its opening dates before you go.
Walks
Hackfall Wood
Grewelthorpe
A beautiful woodland walk all year round. Muddy in winter, with a steep gradient in places, but well worth it.
From The Door
North Stainley
Lanes and footpaths start at the cottage gate, and there are riverside walks nearby.
Local Food & Treats
Highside Butchers
Kirkby Malzeard
A well-known small butchers and deli about 15 minutes from the cottage. Perfect for stocking up for the BBQ.
Appleton’s Butchers
Local
If you like proper old English pies, this is the place.
Brymor Ice Cream
Near Masham
No trip to the Dales is complete without Brymor. Taste the ice cream and meet the cows that made it.