The torch-lit lakeside path takes you to and from the walled gardens. This is where the majority of the performances are situated. The grounds and garden landscaping was all designed by Capability Brown. The walled gardens are the home of the National Hyacinth Collection, the perfume that emanates from all around creates its own drama!
The two huge herbaceous borders create such a riot of colour between June and October each year, and act as a wonderful back drop to many scenes. Follow the actors as they run through the huge range of hot houses, containing a highly impressive collection of tropical plants, which lead you to the enchanting and magical woods of Ripley. The woods contain a collection of specimen trees from around the world and thousands of spring flowering bulbs, daffodils, narcissi, snowdrops, aconites and bluebells.
Outside the walled gardens we find the castle's large ornamental lake, waterfall and deer park. Here herds of fallow deer and cattle graze under the boughs of ancient beech and oak trees.
As the sun sets this is a most perfect setting for As You Like It.
The Castle grounds are open to the public all year.
For more information go to: www.ripleycastle.co.uk
This beautiful Yorkshire Castle, home of the Ingilby family, has played a
significant part in English history since 1320. It tells a story of how
they have survived wars, political and civil unrest, plague, pestilence,
and religious persecution...
Not just a show - an event!
Bring your colleagues, family, and friends. Bring a picnic, chairs, rugs (warm clothing) and relax in the Castle’s beautiful gardens and grounds...
Five to ten minutes drive from Harrogate and just half an hour from York or Leeds, we're easy to get to and parking is available...
Photos from our 2005 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream
