Ripponden, a West Yorkshire village near Bacup, attracts tourists with its charm, new shops, and friendly atmosphere.
You can find old buildings and cobblestone streets in Ripponden. Nearby hiking trails offer great views. Parking is cheap, with the first hour free and just 40p for additional time.
Ryburn Valley holds Ripponden in Calderdale. The Old Bridge Inn pub is 700 years old. Locals call Ripponden a “nice little place,” and tourists visit from everywhere. Despite its size, Ripponden makes a big impact.
Claire Wood, owner of Cuckoo and Rose gift shop, spoke about Ripponden’s changes. She sees more tourists visiting now, helped by more shops and cafes, which benefit the community.
Claire said tourists visit, skipping Hebden Bridge. Ripponden now feels like a true destination, offering everything people need with really good restaurants and pubs. Yet, Ripponden still feels like a small village.
People know each other, said Claire. She knows all her shop’s customers, because the village has a strong sense of belonging. People care for each other there, and it is great living there with quick access to Leeds and Manchester.
Tracy Barlow runs the Ripponden Club pub. She thinks Ripponden feels very “entrepreneurial.” New shops open frequently, attracting many people from out of town.
Denise and Jill like the Ripponden Club. They praised Darren Lee, an Elvis tribute act, and said the village is friendly. People talk to each other, suggesting Wildgoose café and The Toll House for their tasty coffee and doughnuts.
Ray Nicholls owns Ripponden Wine Company on Halifax Road since 2021. He saw the retail scene change a lot, with more than 18 stores now in the village. Holiday options also grew for visitors.
He found 62 AirBnBs in a search. People from Cheshire visited his shop, crediting shows like Happy Valley. Unique shops make Ripponden worth visiting, including the popular vinyl and vintage shops.
People can spend an hour just browsing, said Ray. Ripponden was once a thriving village, and the vacant shops are now revitalized. The village is having a comeback led by many locals who helped create a good high street.
Parking fees help visitors find spaces. Royd Hall car park is behind Ripponden Club, and it costs 40p for up to two hours. The first hour is now free to park there.
Darran Joseph works at VG Estate Agents. He said people support local businesses and want the village centre to thrive. He moved there and likes the countryside and the village’s strong sense of community.
Good schools attract families to Ripponden. Commuters like the easy access to cities, as Manchester and Leeds are easy to reach. Retirees like the transport links, making it easy to get around using public transport.
The village offers shops, pubs, and cafes. Scenic trails and a friendly vibe are characteristic features. The location is both semi-rural and convenient, offering people a good balance in Ripponden.
People from outside Yorkshire are moving there, increasing interest in Ripponden’s property market. Buyers come from Devon, Hampshire, and even overseas, seeking better value and quality of life.
Ripponden’s property market is strong. Demand is high, but supply is low, because owners usually stay there long term. Properties sell quickly when listed.