About this town

Ripley has an exciting blend of high street shops and a strong independent retail scene, you'll find an array of interesting shops including interior stores, ethical gifts, wedding and occasion wear, antique stores, and quality handicrafts making local shopping a joy. Shops established over generations continue to flourish and offer specialty goods with friendly personalised service. 

Watch our Love Ripley video.

History

Ripley appears in the 1086 Domesday Book when it was held by a man called Levenot, medieval Ripley was just a few stone cottages and farms around a village green. In the late 18th century Ripley and the surrounding areas became industrialised. Most famously the Butterley Company formed in 1790 which was an English manufacturing firm that existed until 2009. 

Established by Henry III by royal decree in 1251, the Charter Market is one of the oldest in Derbyshire. The market town of Ripley continues to offer a small traditional outdoor market on Friday and Saturday and an annual fair in October time. 

Places of interest

  • Crossley Park Green Flag town park, bandstand and play water splash area. Musical entertainment at the bandstand in the summer months.
  • Ripley Charter Fair takes place in April and October, all the fun of the fair!
  • Ripley Music Festival takes place in July, with genres from classical to rock
  • Ripley Market Fridays and Saturdays
  • Midland Railway, Butterley Heritage Railway, museum, model railways, shop, children's playground, and country park. Free parking!
  • Butterley Reservoir Built around 1795, is the largest of three built to service the Cromford Canal. Now members of the public can visit the reservoir for a circular walk.

Food and drink

There are many great restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, and bars to choose from. Whether you are looking for a restaurant for an evening meal or lunch, a fun cocktail bar for drinks with friends, or a cafe for a light bite, Ripley has them all!

Parking

You can see all car parks and charges on our council website at www.ambervalley.gov.uk/roads-and-parking/parking/car-park-locations