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Ripon footfall rises following summer of city events

Friday, 28 August 2026 11:03

Footfall numbers are up in Ripon, according to new figures.

Footfall in Ripon city centre has increased following a summer of major events and family activities.

Figures recorded between 1st July and 16th August show visitor numbers were 13.31% higher than during the same period in 2025.

Footfall was also up by 18.14% compared with 2024.

Ripon BID Manager Lilla Bathurst said the increase followed events including Ripon Theatre Festival, the St Wilfrid’s Procession and Yorkshire Day celebrations.

She said:

“From the landmark fifth Theatre Festival in early July, brilliantly curated by director Katie Scott, to the historic Saint Wilfrid procession and Yorkshire Day celebrations on August 1st, headed by Antony Prince, who marshalled an army of volunteers, the BID is delighted to support events and activities that bring additional visitors to the city centre.”

Other attractions included the reopening of the Workhouse Museum following renovations to its residential block and reception building.

Ripon BID also staged Saturday activities on Market Square throughout August, including a climbing wall and face painting.

These complemented music, craft activities and magic shows organised by Ripon City Council.

Lilla added:

“On the sporting front, Ripon’s biggest race day of the year on August 15th, when the Great St Wilfrid Handicap was held, saw an estimated 10,000 racegoers through the gates.

“Many of them visited the city centre for something to eat and drink before and after the racing.”

Ripon’s programme of summer family events will conclude on Market Square tomorrow (Saturday).

The free event will run from 10am until 5pm and feature fairground rides, a football shootout, balloon modelling, bubbles and face painting.

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