Attractions and Places To See around Brough With St. Giles - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Brough With St. Giles include a blend of historical significance and natural beauty in North Yorkshire, England. The area encompasses sites like the Roman town of Cataractonium and medieval hospital ruins, alongside the picturesque River Swale. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks and enjoy the surrounding countryside. The civil parish also includes settlements such as Catterick Bridge and Walkerville.
Best attractions and places to see around Brough With St. Giles
- The most popular attractions is Ruins of Easby Abbey, a historical site that features the remains of a Premonstratensian monastery by the River Swale. Founded in 1152, it includes a refectory, gatehouse, and canons' dormitory. The site is managed by English Heritage and is free to enter during daylight hours.
- Another must-see spot is Richmond Castle, a historical site and castle. It is one of Britain's oldest Norman fortresses, constructed from 1071 onwards. Standing proudly on a rocky outcrop above the River Swale, it offers views of the Yorkshire Dales.
- Visitors also love Richmond Market Town and Castle, a historical site and settlement. This picturesque town is known for its Norman castle, Georgian architecture, and traditional cobbled market place. The town offers museums, cafes, and restaurants, alongside the River Swale.
- Brough With St. Giles is known for its historical sites, including Roman remains and medieval hospital sites, alongside natural features like the River Swale and surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, castles, and scenic walks.
- The attractions around Brough With St. Giles are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and over 110 photos shared.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Ruins of Easby Abbey
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Richmond Market Town and Castle
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Boasting a fine example of a Norman castle, Georgian architecture, a traditional cobbled market place, the beautiful River Swale, and with plenty of museums, cafes, and restaurants, there is plenty for you to explore here.
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The Drummer Boy's Stone
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Richmond Town Centre
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Richmond Castle
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Tips from the Community
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.
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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…….
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Biggest ruins I've seen, no entry fee, lots of interesting places to see, my favourite part was the roof underneath the refectory
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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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Brough With St. Giles?
The area is rich in history. You can visit the impressive ruins of Easby Abbey, a Premonstratensian monastery by the River Swale. Also, explore Richmond Castle, one of Britain's oldest Norman fortresses offering stunning views. Other notable sites include the Roman town and forts of Cataractonium, the site of a medieval hospital near St. Giles farm, and the historic St Joseph and St Francis Xavier Church.
Are there any Roman ruins to visit near Brough With St. Giles?
Yes, the site of Cataractonium Roman Forts and Town is a significant archaeological site within the Brough With St. Giles parish. It offers insights into Roman Britain and is a scheduled monument.
What natural features and outdoor spaces can I enjoy?
You can enjoy the picturesque River Swale, which flows near Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle, offering scenic walks along its banks. The wider Yorkshire Countryside provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring. Scorton Lakes, a former RAF airfield, has been transformed into a tranquil wildlife haven with scenic walks.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near these attractions?
Absolutely. The area offers numerous walking and hiking opportunities. For example, you can find various routes in the Hiking around Brough With St. Giles guide, including trails that take you past the Ruins of Easby Abbey and through the scenic countryside.
Where can I find easy walking trails suitable for a leisurely stroll?
For easier walks, consider routes like the 'Richmond and Hudswell Woods Circular' or the 'Ruins of Easby Abbey – Richmond Town Centre loop'. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Brough With St. Giles guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Many attractions are suitable for families. Easby Abbey is free to enter and offers space for children to explore. Richmond Castle also features family-friendly exhibits. The market town of Richmond itself provides a pleasant environment with shops and cafes.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Brough With St. Giles?
Visitors often praise the breathtaking beauty of the ruins, especially Easby Abbey, and the stunning views from Richmond Castle. The picturesque market town of Richmond with its Georgian architecture and riverside paths is also a favorite for its charm and amenities.
Are there any unique or lesser-known historical spots to discover?
Yes, you might enjoy finding The Drummer Boy's Stone, which marks a spot linked to a local legend about a tunnel from Richmond Castle. The Church of St. Paulinus, located on the grounds of Brough Hall, is also a Grade II* listed building with unique architectural features and stained glass.
When is the best time of year to visit Brough With St. Giles for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor attractions and enjoying walks along the River Swale or through the countryside. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage, though the weather can be more unpredictable.
Can I find running trails in the area?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can explore various loops, such as the 'Running loop from Colburn' or the 'Catterick Palet Hill – Catterick Village Café loop'. More options can be found in the Running Trails around Brough With St. Giles guide.
What is the significance of Catterick Racecourse?
Catterick Racecourse is a notable point of interest within the civil parish, holding historical significance as the first venue for Thoroughbred horse racing in the North of England, with its inaugural race held in 1783.
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Most popular attractions around Brough With St. Giles
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