Attractions and Places To See around Asenby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Asenby include a tranquil village setting on the south bank of the River Swale in North Yorkshire. This area serves as a convenient base for exploring a variety of attractions, from unique local landmarks to wider regional sites. Asenby itself is home to one of the country's rare medieval turf labyrinths and several Grade II listed buildings. The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for riverside walks and exploring historic sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Asenby
- The most popular attractions is Boroughbridge High Street, a settlement known for its bustling high street with cafes and bakeries. Historically, it served as an important stopover for stage coaches due to its central location.
- Another must-see spot is Obelisk at Ripon Market Place, a historical site featuring the oldest freestanding obelisk in England. This 24-meter monument stands at the center of Ripon's historic market square.
- Visitors also love Thirsk Market Place Clock Tower, a central landmark in Thirsk. This area provides facilities including parking and is surrounded by various dining options.
- Asenby is known for historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient monuments to scenic river views.
- The attractions around Asenby are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Obelisk at Ripon Market Place
Highlight • Historical Site
The Market Place is the centre of Ripon, with its 24m obelisk at the centre, the oldest free standing obelisk in England built to replace the old market cross.
From here expand a network of streets and alleyways with a plethora of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants always ready to feed a pair of hungry legs.
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The Devil's Arrows
Highlight • Monument
Legend has it that the Devil hurled the stones at nearby Aldborough but they fell short and they landed here. The tallest is 22.5ft, which is taller than stonehenge and the tallest standing stone in the UK after the monolith at Rudstone. It is believed there was once five stones but the fifth was removed in the hope that treasure was buried at its base.
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Ripon Cathedral
Highlight • Religious Site
You can visit the cathedral and wonder at the spectacular architecture of this grade I listed building for free. For more details visit the website riponcathedral.org.uk
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Boroughbridge High Street
Highlight • Settlement
Boroughbridge is halfway between London and Edinburgh so was historically an important stopover for stage coaches. In 1754 the journey was 10 days in summer and 12 in the winter so an arduous journey. No doubt the hospitality of Boroughbridge (then Burrow Bridge) was very welcome indeed.
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Thirsk Market Place Clock Tower
Highlight • Rest Area
On our return we were easily spoilt for choice of where to eat. Pubs fish and chips bakeries a great place to spend some down time
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Tips from the Community
Lovely stain glass windows, also loved the beautiful display Origami Doves.
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The Devil's Arrows are three aligned standing stones. The standing stone alignment consists of some of the tallest standing stones in the United Kingdom. Erected during the Stone Age and distinctively grooved by millennia of rainfall, the tallest southernmost stone is 22.5 feet (6.85 m) in height, making this the second tallest menhir in the United Kingdom.
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The Cathedral Church of St Peter and St Wilfrid, commonly known as Ripon Cathedral, and until 1836 known as Ripon Minster, is a cathedral in Ripon, North Yorkshire, England. Founded as a monastery by monks of the Irish tradition in the 660s, it was refounded as a Benedictine monastery by St Wilfrid in 672.
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The square is in the very centre of Ripon and is mainly used as a short stay car park. The car park is closed on Thursdays to make way for Ripon’s market.
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Ripon has a stunning gothic cathedral as its centrepiece. It was Founded in the 7th century, the town centre has a mix of architecture dating back to the medieval period, including its Georgian town hall and the Market Place, which has been there since the 12th century.
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Ripon Cathedral, dates back a 1350 years and is free for everyone to visit and explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique historical sites can I explore directly in Asenby?
Asenby is home to one of only ten rare medieval turf labyrinths in the country, a national monument believed to be intact beneath the surface. The village also features seven Grade II listed buildings, primarily houses and a barn, showcasing local architectural heritage, and remnants of historic animal enclosures known as Pinfolds.
Are there any significant historical landmarks near Asenby?
Yes, several notable historical landmarks are within a short drive. You can visit Obelisk at Ripon Market Place, the oldest freestanding obelisk in England. Also nearby are The Devil's Arrows, three ancient standing stones, and the impressive Ripon Cathedral, a gothic cathedral dating back to the 7th century. Further afield, you can explore the medieval ruins of Byland Abbey and the significant National Trust property of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.
What natural attractions and outdoor activities are available around Asenby?
Asenby lies on the south bank of the River Swale, offering scenic views and opportunities for riverside walks. For nature enthusiasts, Staveley Nature Reserve, approximately 6.6 miles away, provides expansive trails and abundant birdlife. The Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park, about 7.6 miles from Asenby, blends natural beauty with artistic installations. You can also find tranquil hiking and walking paths near Iron Bridge Maunby.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near Asenby?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Devil's Arrows are an interesting historical site for all ages. For a unique experience, Larks Edge Alpacas, just 1.9 miles from Asenby, offers a chance to see and interact with alpacas. Many of the nearby towns like Boroughbridge and Thirsk, with their market places, offer cafes and bakeries suitable for families.
What kind of walking or hiking routes can I find near Asenby?
The area around Asenby offers a variety of walking and hiking routes. You can find easy hikes like 'The River Ure & Aldborough loop from Boroughbridge' or 'World of James Herriot – White Horse Café loop from Thirsk'. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Asenby guide or the broader Hiking around Asenby guide for routes of varying difficulty.
Are there cycling opportunities or routes near Asenby?
Yes, there are gravel biking opportunities in the region. You can find routes such as 'Studley Royal Deer Park – Avenue at Studley Royal Deer Park loop from Ripon' or 'Old Oak Tree Pub – Muddy Path loop from Thirsk'. For more detailed cycling routes, refer to the Gravel biking around Asenby guide.
Are there any attractions with wheelchair accessibility near Asenby?
Yes, some attractions offer wheelchair accessibility. Obelisk at Ripon Market Place and Ripon Cathedral are noted as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, Thirsk Market Place Clock Tower area provides facilities including parking and is generally accessible.
What are some dog-friendly options for visitors in the Asenby area?
Many of the natural areas and walking paths along the River Swale or near Iron Bridge Maunby are suitable for walks with dogs. For a dedicated space, Leeming Bar Dog Park, approximately 11.9 miles from Asenby, offers a fenced area with a public footpath and cycle thoroughfare.
Where can I find local crafts or unique shopping experiences near Asenby?
For a unique cultural experience, the Mouseman Visitor Centre (Robert Thompson's Craftsmen Ltd) in Kilburn, about 7.6 miles from Asenby, celebrates the renowned 'Mouseman' furniture maker. Additionally, Boroughbridge High Street and Thirsk Market Place Clock Tower areas offer local shops, cafes, and bakeries.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Asenby?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The historical sites like Ripon Cathedral and The Devil's Arrows are highly regarded for their rich past. The market towns like Boroughbridge and Thirsk are enjoyed for their bustling atmosphere, cafes, and convenient facilities. The tranquil riverside walks and opportunities to explore nature reserves also receive positive feedback.
Is there parking available at the attractions near Asenby?
Yes, many attractions offer parking. For instance, Thirsk Market Place Clock Tower has a central car park. The Obelisk at Ripon Market Place is also in a square mainly used as a short-stay car park (though closed on market days). Staveley Nature Reserve offers free parking, and Byland Abbey provides a serene parking experience.
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