Come and do time in Ripon!

Follow the Law and Order Trail around the historic city of Ripon and visit the three museums that together tell the story of law and order in Yorkshire, providing an insight into the harsh conditions our forebears had to endure not so many years ago. Each museum is housed within its own historic building, which forms an integral part of the overall visitor experience.

Dr John Whitehead MBE 1917-2008

Dr John Whitehead, president and guiding light of Ripon Museum Trust, whose dedication and energy played a pivotal role in establishing Ripon's thriving museum heritage, has died at the age of 90 ... more

Courthouse Museum

Visit the Courthouse Museum, now fully restored to its original 1830 colour scheme, stand in the dock and imagine being sentenced 'to be transported beyond the seas' to Australia, for stealing as little as a loaf of bread ... more

Prison and Police Museum

Do 'time' in the Prison & Police Museum, try out the stocks and pillory; sit in the original victorian cells, experience the treadmill, crank and shot drill; see a 'Doctor Who' style police box and gain valuable insight into policing history ... more

Workhouse Museum

Enter the Workhouse Museum, visit the restored vagrants' ward, imagine being deloused in the ablution room, before being made to work for a bed and a bowl of porridge ... more.

Get a Great Deal! Buy a '3 in 1' combined ticket giving access to all 3 museums ... more

Educational visits

The museums offer victorian-themed, schools educational visits, based on National Curriculum Key Stage and QCA learning programmes. Visits can be tailored to meet specific themes and needs ... more

Lottery Backing for Workhouse Museum

Ambitious plans to expand and improve Ripon's Workhouse Museum have received the welcome support of the National Lottery. Grant funding of up to £837,000 has been earmarked by the Heritage Lottery Fund ... more

Help! Volunteers needed

The museums depend on volunteers for both behind the scenes administration and maintenance, and to provide reception and guide services for our visitors. If you feel you can help us, please join us ... more

For further information or if you have any comments about this site, please contact The Museums Manager, Ripon Museum Trust, The Workhouse Museum, Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon HG4 1LE, telephone 01765 690799 or e-mail info@riponmuseums.co.uk.

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