AN unlikely cathedral city has been named as one of the UK’s trendiest places to live despite problems with parking.
Tiny Ripon in North Yorkshire came in at 13th on a hit-list of Britain’s coolest towns and cities.
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Nestled between the Yorkshire Dales and the North Yorks Moors, the picturesque city boasts a racecourse, elegant stately home, an abbey and a theme park.
But residents say the city’s number one draw is not its top schools or spa gardens – but its friendly community.
Helen Slater, 44, who runs the Cathedral View cafe, looking out over the imposing Ripon Cathedral, said: “It’s a small city with a big heart.
“People look after each other here and they support each other in times of need.
“If someone needs something, there’ll always be someone willing to jump in and help out.
“Ripon is also just such a beautiful place to live – we’ve got the spa gardens, lots of independent shops and some great museums.
“And you can head out into the Dales or the Moors for a day out.
“I live here – but I would holiday here if I could! It’s a lovely place to come and stay.”
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Ripon became a hit with families looking to relocate from bigger cities during the pandemic.
Property prices have soared by 40% in less than a decade – with detached homes now selling for an average of £425,000.
Georgina Clark, 32, who was with daughter Isla, three, moved to Ripon five years ago from Otley in West Yorkshire.
She said: “Everything you could want is here. It’s safe for kids and there’s loads for them to do.
“There’s easy access to the motorway and the A-road, and you’re right by the Dales and the Moors, which are so beautiful.
“I can’t think of a better place to raise a family.”
Ripon – best known for its cathedral, which has a history dating back 1350 years – is the city which inspired Charlotte Bronte to write classic Jane Eyre.
The city is now an array of modern bars, posh restaurants and boutique shops.
Helen Ambler, 28, who moved from Ormskirk, West Lancs, said: “My partner is in the Army and he’s been here for nine years.
“He always said how nice it is and he was right. I’ve got no regrets – it’s just gorgeous.
“The cathedral is a major factor but there are so many beautiful buildings.
“It’s a lovely place to bring up children – that’s a big factor as to why I moved.”
Clementine Duckett, 38, who had taken son Harry, three, to an activity session at the cathedral, said: “My girls are at school but during the holidays they love coming into Ripon for a hot chocolate.
“When our friends come to visit they always say how beautiful the city is.”
The only criticism from locals in Ripon was having to pay for parking in the market square.
Clementine added: “It doesn’t change my decision but it is a little frustrating that other nearby towns like Thirks have free parking.
“Just 30 minutes so you can nip into town and grab a few bits.
“If it was free, local residents would come into the city centre more and that would help the small businesses.”
Ripon was voted 13th by company Naturecan who conducted a national poll of 5,000 people.
Polperro in Cornwall came first in the survey, while Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk came second.
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