On 11 August 1866 Prince Edward and Princess Alexandra arrived at the station for a short visit to Studley Royal.

Today much of the route of the line through the city is now a relief road and although the former station is still standing, it is now surrounded by a new housing development.

The issue remains a significant one in local politics and there are movements wanting to restore the line.

[4] Reports suggest the reopening of a line between Ripon and Harrogate railway station would be economically viable, costing £40 million and could initially attract 1,200 passengers a day, rising to 2,700.

[8] In February 2016 the County Council included it in its Local Transport Plan, but it is accepted that it is unlikely to happen until after 2030.