Ripon Cathedral is probably not one of England's best-known, and from outside it lacks the grandeur of some, although the West frontage of the exterior is an exquisite example of Early English architecture. However the fact that it does not possess great height is probably due to the frequency of the raids it experienced during much of its early life, and should not detract from two key features which make it both beautiful and very important on the inside.
The first of these is its 7th century crypt, which is formed by a Saxon church built by St Wilfred on the site. This is unique in the country and is easily accessed by steps down.

The other feature of great distinction is the wood carving on the choir stalls dating from the late 15th century. It is sometimes very amusing as well as immensely skilled. Lewis Carroll is said to have been most impressed by the carvings which include a griffon chasing a rabbit down a hole.

The other centre of interest in Ripon is the market Square where markets have been held since the 12th century. This still feels like a town centre with superb Georgian and Mediaeval buildings, including the ancient Wakeman's House, a half-timbered building, and the Town Hall. An ancient event which has been continued is the appearance of the historic town cryer at 21:00 every evening

History
For over 1300 years people have been coming to worship and pray at Ripon. The Cathedral building itself is part of this continuing act of worship, begun in the 7th century when Saint Wilfrid built one of England’s first stone churches on this site, and still renewed every day. Within the nave and choir, you can see the evidence of 800 years in which master craftsmen have expressed their faith in wood and stone.

The minster finally became a cathedral (the church where the Bishop has his cathedra or throne) in 1836, the focal point of the newly created Diocese of Ripon - the first to be established since the Reformation.

opening details and services
You are warmly invited to join in the everyday worship of the Cathedral. A number of side chapels are also always available for private prayer. The Cathedral opens every day half an hour before the first service, and closes after evensong (usually around 6.15pm.)

Services
Sunday
8.00 Eucharist (said, Traditional Language)
9.30 Parish Eucharist (First Sunday of the Month: Family Eucharist)
(Modern Language)
11.30 Mattins (First Sunday of the Month: Choral Eucharist)
12.30 Eucharist (said, BCP)
5.30 Choral Evensong

Monday
8.30 Mattins
9.00 The Eucharist
5.30 Choral Evensong

Tuesday
8.00 The Eucharist
8.30 Mattins
5.30 Choral Evensong

Wednesday
8.00 The Eucharist
8.30 Mattins
11.00 The Eucharist
5.30 Evening Prayer (said)

Thursday
8.30 Mattins
9.00 The Eucharist
5.30 Choral Evensong

Friday
8.00 The Eucharist
8.30 Mattins and Litany
12.00 The Eucharist
5.30 Choral Evensong