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Garriston

Attractions and Places To See around Garriston - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Garriston include historical sites, market towns, and natural landscapes in North Yorkshire. This region offers a blend of ancient ruins, Norman castles, and scenic routes. With 5 highlights to explore, Garriston provides diverse opportunities for discovery.

Best attractions and places to see around Garriston

  • The most popular attractions is Ruins of Easby Abbey, a historical site that features well-preserved monastic ruins by the River Swale. Founded in 1152, the abbey's refectory, gatehouse,…

Last updated: July 3, 2026

Ruins of Easby Abbey

Highlight • Historical Site

The breathtaking ruins of Easby Abbey lie within picturesque North Yorkshire countryside by the River Sawle. One of the best preserved monasteries of the Premonstratensian 'white canons', it boasts a …

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Middleham Castle

Highlight • Castle

The 'Windsor of the North', Middleham Castle is a striking and evocative ruin. The sight of it is unmistakable and impressive as you approach the market town of Middleham. It …

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Richmond Market Town and Castle

Highlight • Historical Site

Referred to as the jewel in the heart of North Yorkshire, the picturesque town of Richmond is renowned for breathtaking beauty that has inspired painters and poets for centuries.

Boasting …

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The Drummer Boy's Stone

Highlight • Historical Site

Muddy path when wet, wear sensible shoes

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Coverdale Descent

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

Whether you're coming over Park Rash or turning round to avoid going down it, your legs already aren't speaking to you. They'll get over it. The descent of Coverdale is …

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Tips from the Community

Tracey Price
July 25, 2025, Easby Abbey Ruins

Great tea barn just past the Abbey car park

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Great place to stop for a break when out cycling. Richmond market place has plenty of cafes and pubs, for bite to eat and a refreshing drink.

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The wall paintings are wonderful - always a joy to see. The bike ride alongside the Swale is perfect. Watch out for herons, which can often be seen fishing on a rock. The ice cream at the parlour as you arrive at the station is delicious. The deli just inside is also fabulous…….

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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory

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Muddy path when wet, wear sensible shoes

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Legend has it that at the end of the eighteenth century, a tunnel was discovered at Richmond Castle that was believed to lead to Easby, where there is a ruined abbey. It is said that the entrance to this tunnel was uncovered by soldiers but the passageway beyond was so narrow and full of rubble that they couldn’t fit through it. So a little drummer boy was lowered in and the boy was told to walk along the tunnel, banging his drum, whilst above ground the soldiers would follow his drumming and learn where the tunnel led. All was well at first. The soldiers walked along, listening carefully, and were led out of the castle, across the marketplace and down towards the river. It is told that they managed to follow the drumbeats all the way to Easby woods but all of a sudden the drumming stopped, still some distance from Easby and the abbey. The drumming never resumed and the Drummer Boy was never seen again. A marker of the tunnel above ground is the Drummer Boy’s Stone, on the path to Easby, pinpointing the spot where it’s said that the drumbeats of this poor unfortunate lad were last heard.

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51m
July 31, 2023, Easby Abbey Ruins

Easby Abbey was founded in 1152 but demolished in the mid 1500s. The ruins are free to visit, with information boards set up and managed by English Heritage. The parish church is still used and contains 13th century wall paintings.

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Seeped in history, Richmond is a wonderful market town with a thriving market square and an impressive castle. The town was founded in 1071 with the castle being completed in 1086 so it really does offer a step back in time. It is an excellent gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and there are plenty of places to stay, eat and drink plus the beautiful riverside at the River Swale.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore around Garriston?

Garriston is rich in history. You can visit the breathtaking Ruins of Easby Abbey, a well-preserved monastic site by the River Swale, founded in 1152. Another significant historical attraction is Middleham Castle, a notable castle that also marks a point on the Six Dales Trail. Don't miss Richmond Market Town and Castle, featuring a Norman castle, Georgian architecture, and a traditional cobbled market place.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Garriston area?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Ruins of Easby Abbey are listed as family-friendly, offering an engaging historical exploration. Richmond Market Town and Castle also provides a family-friendly experience with its castle, museums, and town exploration.

What outdoor activities are available near Garriston's attractions?

The Garriston area offers a variety of outdoor activities, especially cycling and mountain biking. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, such as the 'Greets Hill – View Over Swaledale loop from Leyburn', or explore MTB trails like the 'Middleham Castle – Bolton Castle loop from Middleham'. For general cycling, consider routes like the 'Harkerside Moor – High Harker Hill Trail loop from Bellerby'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Gravel biking around Garriston, MTB Trails around Garriston, and Cycling around Garriston guides.

Where can I find scenic views or challenging trails around Garriston?

For scenic views and challenging routes, consider the Coverdale Descent. This highlight is known for its great sweeping views and fast winding roads, though it includes some sharp ascents. It's categorized as a challenging trail and viewpoint.

What is the story behind The Drummer Boy's Stone?

The Drummer Boy's Stone marks a spot on the path to Easby, linked to a local legend. It's said that in the 18th century, a tunnel was discovered at Richmond Castle leading towards Easby. A drummer boy was sent into the tunnel, beating his drum, for soldiers to follow above ground. The drumming stopped suddenly near Easby woods, and the boy was never seen again. The stone pinpoints where his drumbeats were last heard.

Are there any market towns to visit near Garriston?

Yes, Richmond Market Town and Castle is a picturesque town renowned for its traditional cobbled market place. It's an excellent place to explore, offering a blend of history, Georgian architecture, and local shops and cafes.

What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around Garriston?

The Garriston area, located in North Yorkshire, features picturesque countryside, including the River Swale which flows past the Ruins of Easby Abbey. The region is characterized by its blend of ancient ruins and natural beauty, offering diverse experiences for visitors.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Garriston?

Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth and scenic beauty. For instance, the Ruins of Easby Abbey are praised for being breathtaking and well-preserved. Richmond Market Town and Castle is often called the 'jewel in the heart of North Yorkshire' for its beauty, castle, and vibrant market square. The area's blend of ancient ruins, castles, and market towns provides diverse experiences.

Are there specific trails or routes that connect the historical sites?

Yes, the Six Dales Trail, a 61 km waymarked route, either starts or finishes at Middleham Castle, connecting various landscapes. Additionally, a shared path connects Richmond Market Town and Castle to Easby Abbey, offering a pleasant walk between these two historical sites.

Is there an entry fee for the Ruins of Easby Abbey?

No, the Ruins of Easby Abbey are free to enter during reasonable daylight hours. The site is managed by English Heritage and provides information boards for visitors.

What should I wear for hiking or exploring trails around Garriston?

For trails like the one leading to The Drummer Boy's Stone, which can be muddy when wet, it's advisable to wear sensible shoes. For more challenging routes or longer cycling tours, appropriate outdoor gear and footwear are recommended.

Are there cafes or places to eat near the attractions?

Yes, Richmond Market Town and Castle is well-equipped with plenty of cafes and restaurants, making it a good place for a stop during your exploration. While the climb to the Market Square can be a bit steep and cobbled, the amenities are worth it.

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