Nestled in Surrey just 22 miles from London, Ripley is a quaint village where you can find countryside walks, independent shops and visit the popular nearby RHS Wisley Garden.
Parts of the village, including St Mary Magdalen church, date back to around 1160, and its green is both one of the largest and oldest in England, dating back to the 11th century.
its green is both one of the largest and oldest in England, dating back to the 11th century. (Image: C Lacey)
Its high street is lined with historic buildings dating back to the 15th century, including The Talbot Inn, and you can also find the ruins of Newark Priory – the house of Austin canons, dating back to the 12th century.
But aside from its rich history, Ripley also makes for a peaceful day trip out of London, with countryside walks, a plethora of independent shops and plenty of cafes and eateries to choose from.
Ripley makes for a peaceful day trip out of London, with countryside walks, a plethora of independent shops and plenty of cafes and eateries. (Image: C Lacey)
The village plays host to a number of annual and regular events, including its Farmer’s Market that takes place on the second Saturday of each month, where the village green plays host to 45 stalls selling local Surrey produce.
To eat you could head over to Nest Home & Café on the High Street – an indie homeware store and café serving a selection of cakes, pastries and sandwich options.
The village itself is situated alongside the River Wey, where you can stop off for a picnic or find food at The Anchor – a homely pub dating back to the 16th century.
The Anchor is a homely pub dating back to the 16th century. (Image: C Lacey)
The village green makes for an equally good spot for walking, cycling and picnicking, measuring at 68 acres, making it the largest in the UK.
One of Ripley’s standout local attractions is RHS Wisley Gardens – a 240-acre botanic garden with a host of displays and hot houses to explore.
If you’re visiting the village with your dog and plan on visiting the gardens, Wisley offers regular dog-friendly walking sessions, with the next date taking place on June 15.