The Wakeman's House

The Wakeman's House is a Grade II* listed building with timber framing, slate roof, and distinctive oriel windows on its main floors facing Market Place. It sits prominently in the center of Ripon's town center, contributing a notable example of period architecture to the historic square.

The building was constructed in the early 1600s, initially oriented toward High Skellgate, then later repositioned to face Market Square. This reorientation required significant structural changes, leaving only one wing of the original form intact.

The house displays timber framing and construction techniques typical of 17th-century Yorkshire craftspeople. Its structure shows how builders of that period worked with available materials and shaped the town's appearance.

The house sits in the heart of Ripon's Market Place, making it easily accessible on foot when exploring the town center. Its central location means you can visit while walking through the historic area without planning a special trip.

Local residents reported seeing an apparition in an upstairs window during the reopening ceremony in the 1920s following the building's restoration. This episode from the building's past adds an intriguing layer to its story beyond its architectural significance.

Location: Ripon

GPS coordinates: 54.13600,-1.52442

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:09