A charming market town is brimming with independent shops, tearooms and a Norman castle – perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway as it’s just two hours from Liverpool
This charming market town, just two hours from Liverpool, certainly warrants a visit (Image: Daily Mirror)
Sometimes it’s well worth exploring a little further afield to uncover hidden gems, and there’s one picturesque town that stands out above the rest.
Just over two hours from Liverpool, lies the historic market town of Richmond with its cobbled market square and flourishing independent scene. Nestled in the stunning valley of Swaledale in North Yorkshire and sitting on the doorstep of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, it’s well worth the journey for a day trip or a weekend getaway outside of the city.
Richmond is defined by its idyllic riverside walks, elegant Georgian architecture, cobbled streets, and its striking Norman castle, which will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. While it’s only home to around 8,000 residents, “it packs a large punch for a small town,” as Visit Yorkshire puts it.
Flanked by 18th-century buildings and dominated by the castle above, the cobbled marketplace is widely regarded as one of the largest in England and serves as the town’s focal point. Every Wednesday and Saturday, an outdoor market is held here, along with a monthly artisan market that runs from June to October.
As a much-loved local occasion, traders offer everything from handmade ceramics, jewellery, clothing, and flowers to locally sourced food and drink. There’s also an indoor market, open Monday to Saturday, housed within the market hall, owing to its sought-after independent scene. And that’s not all.
Richmond boasts a wealth of independent shops along its high street, set against historic buildings. From boutiques and homeware to handcrafted gifts, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for, and it’s well worth popping into All Things Bright, All and Sundry, The Book Stop, Grey’s Interiors, Caris Green and Trinity Fashion.
Adding to its quintessential charm are the selection of traditional tearooms where you can enjoy a proper Yorkshire brew and freshly baked treats. Some local favourites include The Little Drummer Boy Tearoom and Granny’s Kitchen, while the chocolate shop Mocha offers an extra-indulgent treat.
As evening falls, the small town comes alive with cuisines from across Europe. There are Spanish delights of Number 29 Tapas Bar, the Italian fare at Elixir Restorante, or French cuisine at Rustique Restaurant – and Richmond is certainly no stranger to a good pizzeria either.
Elsewhere in town, the lovingly restored Victorian railway station, known simply as The Station, houses a three-screen cinema, as well as more independent shops and galleries. Nestled in a distinctive setting close to the town centre, it serves as a vibrant community hub under one roof and is an absolute must for any visitor to Richmond.
Meanwhile, Richmond Castle, perched dramatically atop a cliff and looming over the town below, is regarded as one of Britain’s finest Norman fortresses, with origins dating back to 1071. Visitors can wander through its towers, halls and chapels across the sweeping grounds of this ancient stronghold, taking in breathtaking views across the valley.
Yet, a stroll through the town or along the banks of the River Swale is more than enough to appreciate its character, with its cobbled marketplace firmly at its heart. Alongside its key focus on local businesses, which undoubtedly brings the community together.
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