Ripon hidden gem open to public tomorrow and Saturday

A little-known hidden gem in Ripon will open to the public this weekend.

Ripon Gazebo, located in the gardens of number 7 and 8 Park Street and accessible through Blossomgate Court, is estimated to have been built around 1719 as a viewpoint for the surrounding countryside. 

Originally comprised of two towers, a gallery walkway was added later. 

The grade two listed structure was constructed by the Baynes family who lived on Park Street between 1679 and 1791 and was once used as a banqueting house to entertain guests.

Following the home’s conversion into two separate dwellings and the construction of newer housing around it, the gazebo fell into neglect and by the early 1980s the roof had gone, wood had rotted, and brickwork was crumbling. 

To save it, Harrogate Council issued a compulsory purchase order to buy the building and restored it in 1986. In the years post-restoration, the public was able to visit the gazebo through Blossomgate Court, but access has since been revoked.

Due to the gazebo standing on private land, access is only available through Ripon Civic Society as part of the annual Heritage Open Days festival, which begins this weekend. 

That means the gazebo will be open tomorrow (September 6) and Saturday between 1pm and 4pm. Entry is free — just turn up. 

New drone footage will be displayed so visitors can get a different view of the building. 

The Stray Ferret has compiled a listing of what’s on as part of the Heritage Open Days festival here. 

If you enjoyed reading this article then please subscribe to read all our content. Subscription costs £4.99 a month or £49.99 if you pay annually. That works out at less than a pound a week. You will also enjoy exclusive subscriber discounts. Click here to get started.