Situated at the entrance to Swaledale, the ancient market town of Richmond stands on a prominent hilltop site to the north of the River Swale. Its cobbled streets and narrow alleys or ‘wynds’ enshrine over nine centuries of busy history and unique character. The town grew up around its castle, a Norman fortress dating back to 1071, famously situated high above the river – indeed the name Richmond is derived from ‘Riche-mont’ meaning ‘strong hill’. Today there are wonderful walks to be enjoyed such as the Castle Walk – a dramatic terrace walk beneath the castle walls – or alternatively walk alongside the River Swale where there are parks, safe paddling areas and small waterfalls to enjoy. Within the town, narrow streets and alleys radiate from the cobbled Market Place (which has a weekly market and monthly farmers’ market) and there are numerous shops, pubs and restaurants to enjoy. The town flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries and the resulting elegant Georgian architecture lines many of the old streets. The Georgian Theatre is one of the oldest surviving theatres in the country with visitors enjoying its regular productions all year round.
