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04
Apr
GALLERY: Giant wheel provides rare views of Ripon and beyond
People with a head for heights will be able to enjoy panoramic views of Ripon and the surrounding area for the next three weeks starting tomorrow (Saturday).
Ripon's Big Sky Wheel with its 24 gondolas, including one that is accessible for wheelchair users, will carry passengers above the city centre's rooftops and towering obelisk.
The 33-metre high observation wheel has been brought to the city by business support organisation Ripon Business Improvement District, with support from North Yorkshire Council’s parks and open spaces team.
It is located on Market Square South between the town hall and the obelisk, and will be open daily from 11am until 7pm up until Sunday April 27.
Admission is £5 for people under 1.4 metres tall and £7 for people above that height.
BID manager Lilla Bathurst, said:
This is a first for Ripon, providing a rare opportunity for people to enjoy a bird's eye view of our ancient city and surrounding areas, set in the magnificent Dales countryside.
We very much hope that this new addition for the 2025 Easter holidays will draw in visitors from a large catchment area, increasing dwell time and spend whilst encouraging them to discover all of Ripon’s wonderful businesses.
An aerial view of Kirkgate and Ripon Cathedral
Ripon BID manager Lilla Bathurst with Ripon's mayor-elect councillor Jackie Crozier
Ripon's mayor-elect Councillor Jackie Crozier added:
This giant wheel brings the wow factor to Ripon and I am sure that it will attract many more visitors to the city.
A view from above the obelisk and Market Place East
Looking down on Ripon Town Hall and the Claro Lounge
Looking west and a view above the city centre towards the Dales
Adrian 'Gunner' Mardon, a member of the Ripon hornblower team heralds the arrival of the Big Sky Wheel
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