Richmond has lots of green space: Friary Gardens, dominated by the tower of the old Friary, and Ronaldshay Park, with a playground and skate park. By the river is a wide, green area called The Batts and the famous waterfall, an inviting place in summer for picnics and paddling in the River Swale. Above the town is the former Georgian racecourse, which gives great views for miles in all directions.
Richmond has a three-screen cinema at the converted station as well as its own historic theatre, along with numerous cafes, restuarants and pubs, and lots of high quality independent shops.
There are plenty of opportunities for running and cycling locally, and the town has two gyms, and a swimming pool.
Beautiful walks start in the town centre, following the river downstream to Easby Abbey, upstream through the beautiful Billybanks Woods, or along the ridge of Willance’s Leap, with expansive views over Lower Swaledale.
Richmond has several respected schools, catering for primary education through to A-levels.