If there’s one thing we love here at The Yorkshireman, it’s repurposing. Especially when we have such beautiful historic buildings here in our region. Whether it’s traditional phone boxes transformed into mini-libraries or train carriages-turned-air-bnbs, we’re fully on board – which is why The Station grasped our attention.
A former Victorian railway station that has retained its stunning original features, The Station is a fantastic example of a successful community effort. It’s a concept that towns and villages everywhere will be envious of, with locals at the forefront of its purpose, ensuring everyone can benefit.
Officially closing down in 1969 after a century serving the residents of Richmond, The Station received a whole new lease of life back in 2007, and has provided locals with arts, culture and great, locally produced food ever since.
Home to a wonderful mini art gallery, The Station showcases a number of exhibitions, with local talent displaying their stunning pieces of art – many of which are paintings and creations of Yorkshire – with nature frequently taking centre stage.
Also home to a number of community efforts, visitors can enjoy an array of events and classes – as well as Jazz nights, talks and more. There’s a little something for everyone, with events created with families in mind, classes aimed at providing a sense of community to new mothers, and plenty of shows and classes for the grown-ups, too.
Elsewhere at The Station, guests can take advantage of a lovely book initiative, which sells second-hand books in exchange for a small donation – with all proceeds going right back into the running of the venue.
On the ground floor – which was likely once home to the ticket hall – guests can take advantage of ample seating (which has currently been slightly reduced to allow for social distancing), with a beautiful, gourmet cafe bar serving up fantastic Yorkshire grub – including dishes such as braised ox cheek, baked salmon fillet and lamb cutlets – with pizzas, sandwiches and light bites also on the menu for those looking for a more casual meal.
Other vendors within the station include Kacao; home to Richmond-made artisan chocolate, Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream, The Angel’s Share; a Yorkshire-based bakery and Richmond Brewing Company; serving fantastic locally produced beers for guests to try out. When in Richmond, after all.
For the film buffs, The Station houses a wonderful, well-kept cinema, screening both the latest blockbusters and a selection of independent movies, too. Basically, it’s a destination in its own right.
Open both indoors and outdoors now, The Station can be found at Station Yard, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4LD – with no bookings required to visit.
Read more: The Best And Most Beautiful Hotels To Stay In Richmond, Yorkshire
