There is a lovely walk hidden away up Moor Road on the way to the A61 - it is the Bishop Monkton Railway Cutting Nature Reserve.(looked after by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, as are the Ripon City Wetlands and the Staveley Nature Reserve - all very worth a visit) 

It is all too easy to overlook this little piece of nature as we drive past.

The gateway to this (free) reserve is just before the humpback bridge.  If you use a car, ensure you park on the side of the road where your car is visible from the bridge - which is "blind" with regard to drivers on this stretch of road.  It is a fast, sometime busy road but can be walked with great care: people walk this road to access the 36 bus stop on A61 opposite the Harrogate Centre.

You will encounter a wildlife haven and although only a short walk there and back along its length ; you will experience a few moments of peace and tranquility