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.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Garriston.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
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…….
0
0
Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: