Ripon Museums

Three museums, all within walking distance of Ripon’s city centre, all follow a common law and order theme and are based in the original courthouse, prison and workhouse buildings.

The Ripon Union Workhouse was the place of last resort for some people. Walk in a Victorian pauper’s footprints, experiencing the austere atmosphere. See displays of the food, uniforms and hard labour that they endured. During the holidays there living history events that let you experience Victorian tasks like oakum picking and rag rugging with costumed guides on hand.

Visitors can imagine the tough conditions for Victorian prisoners at the Ripon Prison & Police Museum. Try on police and prison uniforms, listen to the door slam as you sit in a prison cell and think of the horror at being strapped in a restraint chair, set in the pillory or hung in chains. Experience the hard labour of carrying out shot drill, turning the crank or climbing the treadmill. The history of Yorkshire Policing is illustrated in this Museum’s displays.

The Ripon Courthouse is almost unchanged since 1830 when it was built. You can deliver a verdict at the magistrates’ bench or sit in the dock to hear your fate. The displays show the history of the courthouse and tell the story of the people who have passed through this building over the years.

These award winning museums uncover Ripon’s hidden histories. The three museums are open every day. Please check the website for further details.