A source of free drinking water and a historical reference to Ripley's history all in one.
Next to Ripley's main square and the Boars Head Hotel/inn.
www.boarsheadripley.co.uk/
Main Street, HG3 3AY Harrogate (North Yorkshire), HG3
+44(0)1423 771888
Google map: bit.ly/M74sDd
Ripley's parish church is quiet with noteworthy features inside it. However the musket ball holes in the walls around the church graveyard are particularly sobering. The graveyard has a good view of Ripley lake
www.ripleychurch.org.uk/
Ripley, North Yorkshire HG3 3AY
+44(0)1423 770147
Google map: bit.ly/NHYueW
Ripley Castle is set in a beautiful landscape with its own lake and waterfall. For the best view of the castle take the path signposted for the deer park, walk past Eel tower and pause at the bridge over the waterfall to admire the castle in its all glory as it is reflected in the lake's water. The friendly tour guides provide a thorough guided tour of the castle itself sharing stories about its bloody English civil war connections. The gardens are well tended, colourful and child friendly.
www.ripleycastle.co.uk/
Hollybank Lane Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 3AY
+44(0)1423 770152
Google map: bit.ly/M7c6xw
Indietracks is a unique music festival that takes place on a 1950s steam railway in Ripley, Derbyshire. It's a great way to sample the picturesque Derbyshire countryside, ride on a steam railway and and hear some fantastic indiepop bands.
The next festival will take place on the weekend of 28-29 July, featuring dozens of bands - both new and established - including The Orchids, Cats on Fire, Bearsuit, The Cut Outs, Persil, as well as a DJ set from London's influential How Does It Feel To Be Loved? club night.
Festivalgoers have unlimited rides on the steam railway over the weekend and full access to the railway attractions.
The first Indietracks festival in April 2007 was a wonderful, special event, with music-lovers enjoying bands on the platform and dancing away on the train's disco carriage as it travelled through the countryside. There really isn't another music festival like this!
The Midland Railway Centre, near Ripley, Derbyshire.
www.indietracks.co.uk
Tickets: 01773 747674
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
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