Attractions and Places To See around Melmerby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Melmerby, a village in Cumbria's Eden Valley, include historical landmarks, natural features, and local experiences. The area serves as a gateway to the North Pennines and is near the Lake District National Park. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from ancient churches to expansive village greens and natural fells.
Best attractions and places to see around Melmerby
- The most popular attractions is Seven Bridges Valley, a river area that follows the River Skell from Studley Lake upstream towards Ripon. A project is underway to remediate and return the river to a healthier state.
- Another must-see spot is Hackfall Wood, a waterfall and woodland managed and restored by the Woodland Trust. Visitors can explore dense woodland trails, a stream, and several grottos, ruins, and water features.
- Visitors also love Studley Royal Deer Park and St Mary's Church, an other natural area featuring parkland with deer and a Victorian High Anglican Church. The church offers views over the surrounding countryside.
- Melmerby is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and local experiences. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient structures to expansive natural landscapes.
- The attractions around Melmerby are appreciated by the komoot community, with 98 upvotes and 79 photos shared.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Studley Royal Deer Park and St Mary's Church
Highlight • Natural
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Obelisk at Ripon Market Place
Highlight • Historical Site
The Market Place is the centre of Ripon, with its 24m obelisk at the centre, the oldest free standing obelisk in England built to replace the old market cross.
From here expand a network of streets and alleyways with a plethora of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants always ready to feed a pair of hungry legs.
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Hackfall Wood
Highlight • Waterfall
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Seven Bridges Valley
Highlight (Segment) • River
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Fountains Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
The abbey and gardens are National Trust paid entry but there are plenty of footpaths through the wider estate that you can explore.
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Tips from the Community
St Mary’s Church at Studley Royal Park is one of the most striking examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in the region. Designed by William Burges in the 1870s, the church is breathtaking inside and out, with intricate carvings, rich stained glass, and dramatic decoration throughout. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are extraordinary, making this church not only a place of worship but also a work of art. Its location within the deer park adds to the sense of tranquillity, and it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply beautiful spaces. The church was actually born out of tragedy, it was built in memory of Frederick Vyner who was kidnapped and murdered in Greece in 1870. While travelling near Marathon, he and others were taken hostage by brigands demanding ransom. A failed rescue attempt led to his death, and his grieving family* used the unspent ransom money to build two churches in his memory – Christ the Consoler at Newby Hall and St Mary’s at Studley Royal. *Frederick’s mother, was Lady Mary Vyner, and his sister (Henrietta), was married to George Robinson who later became 1st Marquess of Ripon, the owner of Studley Royal).
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The Church of St Mary, Studley Royal, is a Victorian Gothic Revival church built in the Early English style by William Burges
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National Trust membership required OR park at the Studley Royal End and walk through forests.
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A television series that I can wholeheartedly recommend presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "World Heritage" status by UNESCO. * "A park, gnarled trees, twisted by the wind, as if by a giant's hand. Herds of fallow deer and roe deer graze in the tall grass. In the valley, nature is reflected in an artificial lake district: the visitor stands in Lord Aislabie's "Watergarden". Small Greek temples and Gothic turrets are also reflected in the water, because in the 18th century it was fashionable to decorate the parks of noble country estates with Greek temples and Gothic turrets - real ruins were very popular. And the Lord had a really magnificent ruin in his park. If you walk along the well-kept park paths by the stream that flows through the artificial lakes, you will see "Fountains Abbey" or what is left of what was once the largest English Cistercian monastery in Yorkshire, an impressive ruin." is written on the media library's website. The corresponding film contribution (in German) can be found at the following link => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/der-park-v-studley-und-die-ruinen-von-fountains-abbey-gb-folge-197/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MDM1MzE0
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A television series that I can wholeheartedly recommend presents the culture-loving viewer (in German) with remarkable examples of human creativity from many countries around the world. What they all have in common is that they have been given "World Heritage" status by UNESCO. * "A park, gnarled trees, twisted by the wind, as if by a giant's hand. Herds of fallow deer and roe deer graze in the tall grass. In the valley, nature is reflected in an artificial lake district: the visitor stands in Lord Aislabie's "Watergarden". Small Greek temples and Gothic turrets are also reflected in the water, because in the 18th century it was fashionable to decorate the parks of noble country estates with Greek temples and Gothic turrets - real ruins were very popular. And the Lord had a really magnificent ruin in his park. If you walk along the well-kept park paths by the stream that flows through the artificial lakes, you will see "Fountains Abbey" or what is left of what was once the largest English Cistercian monastery in Yorkshire, an impressive ruin." is written on the media library's website. The corresponding film contribution (in German) can be found at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/der-park-v-studley-und-die-ruinen-von-fountains-abbey-gb-folge-197/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MDM1MzE0
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Melmerby?
Melmerby is surrounded by natural beauty. You can explore the expansive Seven Bridges Valley, which follows the River Skell, or discover the waterfalls and dense woodland trails of Hackfall Wood. The village itself is at the foot of Melmerby Fell, part of the North Pennine Summits, offering hiking opportunities. The significant 11-acre Melmerby Village Green is also a natural highlight, maintained partly as a wildflower meadow.
Are there good hiking opportunities near Melmerby?
Yes, Melmerby is an excellent base for hiking. You can find various routes, including easy and moderate options. For detailed trails and routes, explore the Hiking around Melmerby guide, which includes routes like the Ripon Cathedral – Weeping Willow at The Ford loop. Melmerby Fell also offers popular hiking paths, including access to a section of The Maiden Way, an ancient Roman Road.
What historical sites can I visit in and around Melmerby?
The area boasts several historical landmarks. Visit the Grade II listed Melmerby Hall, a 14th-century manor house with extensive grounds. St John the Baptist Church, a 13th-century red sandstone church, is also within the village. Further afield, you can explore the ancient Fountains Abbey, a 900-year-old Cistercian monastery, or the 3,500-year-old stone circle of Long Meg and Her Daughters near Little Salkeld.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Melmerby?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families, such as the Seven Bridges Valley and Hackfall Wood, which offer easy walking trails and natural exploration. Studley Royal Deer Park is another great option where children can observe deer in a natural setting. For a unique experience, Lakeland Llama Treks in the village offers interaction with llamas.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Melmerby?
For breathtaking views, consider a climb to Hartside Summit on the A686, which offers stunning vistas of the Solway Firth and Scotland. Melmerby Fell also provides views of the Lake District Fells. Within the village, the tower of St John the Baptist Church offers a view of Melmerby Fell from its East window. The Studley Royal Deer Park also features a Victorian High Anglican Church with views over the surrounding countryside.
What unique local experiences does Melmerby offer?
Beyond traditional sights, Melmerby offers unique local experiences. You can trek with llamas through Lakeland Llama Treks, or enjoy a meal and real ales at The Shepherds Inn, the local pub. The Old Village Bakery is a noted spot for breakfast. For a distinctive stay, Wanderlust Gipsy Caravans provide horse-drawn holidays, reflecting the village's historical connection to travelers.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
While the rugged natural landscape can be challenging, the Obelisk at Ripon Market Place is noted as wheelchair accessible. When planning your visit, it's always advisable to check specific accessibility details for other sites directly.
What is the best time of year to visit Melmerby for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities, with daffodils blooming on the Village Green in March and wildflowers attracting insects throughout the warmer season. Late summer and autumn bring colorful waxcaps to the green. For hiking, checking local weather patterns is always recommended, especially when planning to explore fells or higher elevations.
Where can I find places to eat and drink in Melmerby?
Melmerby has a few local spots for refreshments. The Shepherds Inn is the village's local pub, serving real ales and food. The Old Village Bakery is a popular choice for breakfast, offering both indoor and outdoor seating. For another option, you could consider a walk to the nearby village of Ousby to visit The Fox Inn.
Are there cycling routes available near Melmerby?
Yes, the area around Melmerby is popular for cycling. The A686 climb to Hartside Summit is part of the Sea to Sea Cycle Route, offering challenging ascents and rewarding views. For more structured routes, you can consult the Road Cycling Routes around Melmerby guide, which includes options like the Ripon, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Loop.
What is the significance of the Melmerby Village Green?
The Melmerby Village Green is a significant 11-acre feature, considered one of the largest village greens in the country. It is bisected by a stream and part of it is maintained as a wildflower meadow, attracting various insects and butterflies. It also hosts a football pitch and a swing with scenic views, making it a central hub for local life and natural observation.
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