Richmond is an exceptionally photogenic market town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Swale. It boasts rows of ancient stone cottages and Georgian and Regency townhouses, a ruined Norman Castle, and a lovely large cobbled market square. The best places to stay in Richmond include some charming period townhouse conversions as well as traditional coaching inns and cosy B&Bs.
Richmond has an impressive collection of independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants, plus there's a cinema and theatre — so plenty of entertainment for all. If you’re interested in the town's history, the castle is your obvious first stop. From there you’ve a choice of the Richmondshire Museum, and the Green Howards Regimental Museum; or the ruins of Easby Abbey, and Culloden Tower; or you could stroll around Richmond’s four churches. The market square is one of the largest in England, and the Saturday market is a pretty major event.
Outdoors enthusiasts are well catered for too; Richmond is a tourist centre for the Dales National Park with its glorious scenery, pretty villages and plethora of walking or cycling opportunities.
But don't forget that this is a popular destination, especially during the peak summer months. If you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Richmond in July or August, you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.