Once only open for 28 afternoons each year, there are now a number of ways that you can visit the Hall – you can still visit on an open afternoon (there are now 30 them), you can book onto one of our tours throughout the year as an individual, or you can book as a group. You will find information on all the different options listed to the left and if nothing takes your fancy, do just ask – you may suggest something we’ve never thought of!
“No shop, no cafe, nobody trying to get that last £1 out of your pocket just nice, friendly people making sure you knew as much as you wanted to know about this fantastic house. It is a delightful place, my daughter and I loved it and that's not bad from a grumpy old man.”
from TripAdvisor
Tucked privately away along a mile-long winding drive, just three miles south of Ripon, Markenfield has been described as Yorkshire’s best-kept secret. Not visible from the road, a glimpse of the imposing east wall cannot be seen until visitors reach the old Mediaeval road near to the top of the drive. But for a quirk of fate – and a Turnpike Act of 1777 – Markenfield would be one of the most recognisable houses in Yorkshire as the nearby A61 would run along this now-bridleway just 200 yards away.
As it is, the house is approached from the A61 Ripon to Harrogate Road along a humble farm track, past agricultural buildings and farm workers’ cottages. Parking at the side of the moat, visitors approach the building on foot – walking over the bridge that now serves the house in place of the former drawbridge – and the moment the Mediaeval Courtyard opens up as visitors pass beneath the Tudor Gatehouse never fails to astound.
Don’t just take our word for it though… read on Trip Advisor just how great we are! Click on the Trip Advisor logo to read previous reviews of the Hall, and then once you’ve visited you can add your own.