Mad Hatter’s Cottage

03/09/2026

CURIOUS RIPON 🏥 | Ripon’s medieval l***r chapel

You may have passed this little chapel on Magdalens Road without realising just how old it is.

The Hospital of St Mary Magdalene was founded by Archbishop Thurstan in the 12th century. Its sisters and priest cared for people affected by leprosy, supported blind priests born in Ripon and gave alms to the poor.

By the mid-1300s, there were apparently no longer enough leprosy patients to need a separate house, and that building was demolished - but remarkably, the chapel survived.

Historic England describes it as the only complete part of any of Ripon’s medieval hospitals to survive from the time of its foundation. Today it is Grade I listed.

Copyright: © Ian Kendall 2022, Creator: Ian Kendall

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9 things to look forward to at the Masham Sheep Fair on 26th & 27th September:

1. Watch judges decide on the winners for all the sheep classes - there are a lot!

2. Watch sheep racing in field beyond churchyard

3. Listen to Expert Ernie's commentary, with insights into farming life and different breeds of sheep

4. Wander around the market place to see all the sheep. Farmers are happy to answer your questions and explain what makes their sheep special.

5. See the wool craft & other stalls in the Town Hall and School

6. Visit the Harvest of Gardens Flower Festival in St. Mary's Church

7. Listen to the brass/silver band after the Bishop Blaize (patron saint of woolcombers) rides into the market place

8. Watch morris dancers and other performers around the market place

9. Enjoy Masham's shops, cafes, pubs, and the stalls in the market place and sheep racing field