Ripley Castle

RIPLEY CASTLE has for twenty-four generations been the home of the Ingilby family and it retains that `much loved and very much alive' feeling of a family home. The guides, whilst being very knowledgeable, all have an excellent sense of humour, and the tours which take approximately one hour, are not only informative but great fun. The castle contains fine portraits, paintings, furnishings and chandeliers and in the old (1555) tower, some splendid armour, books, panelling and a priests' secret hiding place. The extensive walled gardens have recently been transformed and now house The National Hyacinth Collection and fabulous Ripley tropical plant collection, which includes many rare and exotic species. 120,000 spring flowering bulbs create a blaze of colour in April/May, and are followed by the bluebells and rhododendrons, delphiniums, roses and herbaceous borders. Ripley village, on the castle's doorstep is a model estate village, with many interesting shops, an art gallery and farm museum. Historic Houses Association Member. OPENING TIMES SUMMER: Castle & Gardens April - June, September & October: Thur - Sun: 10.30am - 3pm. July & August: Daily: 10.30am - 3pm. also open BHs. Gardens Daily, 10am - 5pm. WINTER November - March: Tue, Thur, Sat & Sun. 10.30am - 3pm.