Walks in Osbaldwick
From easy city strolls to challenging trails, discover the best of Osbaldwick on foot.
Walk: River Foss Trail, York
A lovely riverside walk with an abundance of wildlife. The walk follows the River Foss from Haxby to York City Centre. The Route what3words for start point: ///overjoyed.string.zinc Start / Finish Point: Folks Close bus stop, Towthorpe Road, Haxby, York YO32 3LY Distance: 4.5 Miles GPX Route Map haxbyriversidewalkgpxfileDownload Walk Description This scenic riverside walk starts from the Folks Close bus stop along Towthorpe Road, Haxby (bus 13). Look out for Landing Lane which is straight ahead on the right. Turn into this lane and look out for a public footpath sign on the left. This track leads to the River Foss. The footpath follows the river as it flows from Haxby to York city centre. The middle part of the walk can be completed on either side of the river until reaching the historic All Saints Church. Stay on the west bank of the river after passing this church. The walk is a great place to see wildlife Look out for ducks, moorhens and dragonflies. If you are lucky you may see a kingfisher. Shoals of fish can easily be seen swimming in the river on a sunny day. The River Foss is also home to water voles. They have disappeared from many parts of the country but can still be found here. At three points the footpath briefly leads to a roadside footpath, but then quickly returns to the riverside. To return to York city centre take the number 12 bus from the Eboracum Way bus stop along Heworth Green.
Walk: York Riverside
Enjoy this circular route from York to Bishopthorpe along the bank of the River Ouse. The Route what3words for start point: ///ballots.items.tinsel Start Point: Rowntree Park, Terry Ave, York YO23 1JQ Finish Point: Rowntree Park, York Distance: 3.75 Miles GPX Route Map yorkriversidewalkDownload Walk Description From Rowntree Park in York you pass the curved Millennium Bridge and continue walking south along the riverside pathway. There are two sets of stiles on this route. The path takes you underneath the A64 flyover and passes alongside Bishopthorpe Crematorium on your right. The footpath ends at a road – you can take a detour by turning left and walking past Bishopthorpe Palace and following the bend in the road to the Main Street, complete with three pubs! Otherwise, to follow this route turn right and walk along the pavement, crossing the flyover. When you are level with the entrance to Middlethorpe Hall Hotel on your right, turn left along the track towards York Racecourse. Turn right when you reach the racetrack, and follow the cycle route alongside the track which takes you towards the former Terry’s Chocolate Factory, where the cycle route turns right towards Bishopthorpe Road. At the road, turn left and walk along the pavement towards the city centre, and turn right on Butcher Terrace which leads you back to the Millennium Bridge.
Walk: York (The Judge's Lodging)
A classic tour around the historic centre of York - starting and finishing at The Judge’s Lodging. The Route what3words for start point: ///putty.fixed.rail Start / Finish Point: The Judge's Lodging, 9 Lendal, York YO1 8AQ Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map walkshire-york-for-the-judge-s-lodging-1Download Walk Description Starting at The Judge’s Lodging, turn right onto Lendal, and then right again on to the A1036 Museum Street. Cross over Blake Street at the traffic lights and continue towards the Minster straight ahead. At the corner, spend some time taking in the astonishing majesty of York Minster. Turn right, not onto the pedestrian Minster Yard, but onto the road High Petergate. Continue down onto Low Petergate to the cross roads with Goodramgate. Cross over and walk down King’s Square, but keep to the right. Turn right down Newgate, and then left down the famous Shambles. At the junction with the road Pavement, turn right and walk to the traffic lights. Cross over Piccadilly, turn right and then left to go down Coppergate. At the next junction, turn left down Castlegate, following it around to the right onto Tower Street. Follow Tower Street, with Clifford’s Tower on the left. Cut through the park on the left, and turn right to cross Skeldergate Bridge. Cross over the road called Skeldergate, and take the entrance to the city’s walls on the right hand side. Walk on the wall, past the railway station and eventually reaching Station Road. Turn left to cross Lendal Bridge and then right on Lendal to return to The Judge’s Lodging.
Walk: Middletons Hotel York
Take in a brief fix of the historic county city of York, with this short walk from Middletons Hotel. Book now The Route What3words for Start Point: ///giant.faces.ruled Distance: 1 Miles Start Point: Middletons Hotel, Cromwell Road, York YO1 6DS Finish Point: Middletons Hotel, Cromwell Road, York YO1 6DS Book now GPX Route Map walkshireyorkmiddletonshotelDownload Walk Description With the Middletons Hotel behind you, turn left and walk down Cromwell Road. At the junction with Skeldergate, cross over, and then turn right. At Bishopgate Street, turn left to walk over the River Ouse, via Skeldergate Bridge. Once across, turn left just after the tower on the bridge, to enter Tower Gardens. Keep to the left path, to walk alongside the river. When you reach the Kings Arms, turn right up King’s Street. At Nessgate, turn left and then follow the road around the corner to the left onto Low Ousegate. Cross the Ouse again, this time using Ouse Bridge, and then turn left at the traffic lights down Skeldergate. Turn right onto Fetter Lane, and walk down to the next junction. Turn left onto Bishophill Senior, and follow this down to return to the hotel on the left. The hotel itself is a series of listed building in the heart of York with car parking. Book now
Walk: Waterfront walk in York
A classic tour along the waterfront of York - starting and finishing at The Judge’s Lodging. The Route what3words for start point: ///events.sobs.skins Start / Finish Point: The Judge's Lodging, 9 Lendal, York YO1 8AQ Distance: 3 Miles GPX Route Map walkshireyorkriverwalkDownload Walk Description Starting at The Judge’s Lodging, turn right onto Lendal, and then left on to the A1036 to cross over Lendal Bridge. At the road junction, take a hairpin turn to Tanner’s Moat and follow the road to the right around the corner onto Wellington Row. Turn left through the wall and follow the side of the river all the way to Bridge Street. Cross over Bridge Street and go down the steps to find the riverside once again. Follow this, until you have to turn right on Queen's Staith Road. Then turn left onto Skeldergate and follow this road down until Terry Avenue leaves on the left. Follow Terry Avenue to go underneath Skeldergate Bridge, and continue along Terry Avenue. After a long time, Terry Avenue stops, and becomes a footpath - continue along the footpath alongside Rowentee Park. Keep to the side of the river, and walk up the steps onto the Millenium Bridge. Turn left and cross over the Ouse via the bridge, then left again onto New Walk. If you wish, walk off the paved footpath and walk directly along the riverside. Turn left, and cross over Blue Bridge at the end of Blue Bridge Lane. Follow the towing path under Skeldergate Bridge, right upto the Ouse Bridge. Turn left onto Low Ousegate, and then after crossing over, turn left down Spurriergate, which turns into Coney Street and then Lendal to return to The Judge’s Lodging.
Walk: York Millennium Bridge to the York Designer Outlet
An easy riverside walk on the outskirts of York, which passes through two nationally important wildlife sites; Fulford Ings and Naburn Marsh, before reaching The Designer Outlet shopping centre. The Route what3words for start point: ///rally.meal.helps Start Point: Millenium Bridge, York Finish Point: The Designer Outlet, York Distance: 3 Miles GPX Route Map millenniumbridgetothedesigneroutletgpxDownload Walk Description The walk starts from the east side of the Millennium Bridge, just a short distance from York City Centre. Tawny owls are often heard calling in this area. Heading south the walk passes meadows enriched with a variety of colourful flowers. On the left, trails running through Danesmead Wood are worth exploring. Continuing south a surfaced track passes the old St Oswald's Church, now a private residence. A rough track straight ahead leads into Fulford Ings, a nationally important wildlife site, great for birds, wetland plants and the occasional deer. The riverside is home to the nationally scarce tansy beetle, an iridescent green insect found only around York and in Cambridgeshire. Following the river leads to Naburn Marsh which has an abundance of bright purple meadow cranesbill in Summer and also gives walkers a great view of Bishopthorpe Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of York. The path then turns left and leads to The Designer Outlet, a great place for shopping, refreshments or a bus back to York City Centre (Bus 7).
Walk: The Wilberforce Way
The Wilberforce Way is a scenic long-distance walking route in East Yorkshire, named in honour of William Wilberforce, the famous abolitionist who campaigned tirelessly to end the transatlantic slave trade. This trail stretches for approximately 60 miles, winding through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and significant historical sites, offering walkers a journey through both natural beauty and rich heritage. The Route what3words for start point: Start Point: Hull Finish Point: Pocklington Distance: 60 miles Book "Wilberforce Way" by John Eckersley - click here (#ad) GPX Route Map Wilberforce-WayDownload Walk Description The Wilberforce Way begins in the historic city of Hull, where William Wilberforce was born. The starting point is at the Wilberforce House Museum, which provides an insightful introduction to Wilberforce's life and work. From here, the route heads northwest, leaving the urban environment behind and entering the peaceful East Yorkshire countryside. Hull to Beverley Beverley Minster Distance: About 10 miles Highlights: As you leave Hull, the path follows a network of footpaths and bridleways, taking you through farmland and small villages. This section concludes in the historic market town of Beverley, renowned for its beautiful Minster, cobbled streets, and traditional architecture. Beverley to Pocklington Distance: Approximately 20 miles Highlights: Leaving Beverley, the route meanders through the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Wolds. Walkers will pass through idyllic villages such as Cherry Burton and Bishop Burton, each offering picturesque views and a chance to experience local rural life. The path eventually reaches Pocklington, a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant community. Pocklington to Market Weighton Distance: Around 10 miles Highlights: This section of the Wilberforce Way takes you along peaceful country lanes and footpaths, with the dramatic backdrop of the Yorkshire Wolds' chalk hills. Market Weighton, known for its Giant Bradley heritage, is a delightful market town perfect for a rest stop. Market Weighton to Londesborough and Goodmanham Distance: Approximately 10 miles Highlights: From Market Weighton, the route continues through the scenic village of Londesborough, with its historic estate and parkland. Walkers then pass through Goodmanham, a village steeped in history, before reaching the final stretch of the journey. Goodmanham to Pocklington Canal Distance: About 10 miles Highlights: The final leg of the Wilberforce Way leads walkers along the peaceful Pocklington Canal, offering serene waterside views and abundant wildlife. The canal path provides a gentle interlude to the journey. Pocklington to York The route begins by following the Pocklington Canal until it intersects with the B1228 road. From there, it continues through Sutton-Upon-Derwent. The trail crosses the River Derwent just outside Elvington, skirting the village and joining the Jorvic Way towards Wheldrake. Exiting Wheldrake to the north, the route crosses the A64 and enters the Heslington suburb of York near the University of York. Continuing west, the path traverses Walmgate Stray and crosses the A19 (Fulford Road) to reach the east bank of the River Ouse. The final leg follows the river, concluding at Lendal Bridge before turning towards its terminus at York Minster. Practical Information Total Distance: Approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) Difficulty: Moderate, with some gentle inclines and varied terrain Terrain: A mix of urban paths, rural footpaths, bridleways, and canal towpaths Access: The route is accessible year-round, with spring and summer offering the most favorable walking conditions. Tips for Walkers Footwear: Sturdy walking boots are recommended, especially in wetter conditions. Supplies: Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a packed lunch, as amenities can be sparse in some rural sections. Navigation: While the route is signposted, a detailed map or GPS device is advisable for ensuring you stay on track. Accommodation: There are numerous options for overnight stays along the route, including bed and breakfasts, inns, and campsites. The Wilberforce Way offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a rewarding experience for both avid walkers and those interested in England's rich cultural heritage. Walking this route not only honours the legacy of William Wilberforce but also allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of East Yorkshire.
Walk: Foss Way
Follow the River Foss from Easingwold into the historic city of York. This is long walk at 28 miles so can be broken up into sections. The Route what3words for start point: ///reference.defaults.tins Start Point: Easingwold Finish Point: York Distance: 28 Miles GPX Route Map foss-wayDownload Walk Description Follow the stunning River Foss along the Foss Walk as it winds its way into York passing through the villages of Oulston, Crayke, Farlington, Strensall and Haxby to name a few. There is a great variety of countryside to stroll through from woodlands to meadows, riverbanks to beautiful villages. Make sure you stop off in those villages to take advantage of the local hospitality. Finally the walk arrives into York from the and it's a lovely walk to see the city unwrap itself right before your eyes as the modern buildings become replaced by the ancient as you get closer to the medieval centre.
Walk: Hagg Wood
A beautiful little walk through the bluebell wood in Dunnington, a definite treat for the nature lovers. The Route what3words for start point: ///galleries.snooping.link Start Point: Dunnington Finish Point: Dunnington Distance: 1 Miles GPX Route Map hagg-woodDownload Walk Description Nestled in the lovely village of Dunnington these woods are dotted with bluebells in spring and are a must see for any nature lover. These walks are off the beaten track so are peaceful and the ideal location to enjoy some time in your own thoughts. There are also lovely examples of dog violets and yellow pimpernel to enjoy in the woodland. Occasionally there have been sightings of foxes, badgers and the odd deer so keep your eyes peeled.
Walk: The Centenary Way
England's picturesque landscapes are woven with countless trails, but one that captures the essence of both natural beauty and historical depth is the Centenary Way. This long-distance footpath stretches approximately 209 kilometres (130 miles) and offers an immersive journey through the heart of Yorkshire. Established in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the North and East Yorkshire County Councils, the Centenary Way is a path less travelled but rich with sights and stories. The Route what3words for start point: ///shot.before.large Start Point: York Minster, Deangate, York YO1 7HH Finish Point: Filey Distance: 130 miles GPX Route Map centenary-way-yorkshireDownload Walk Description Starting Point: York Minster The journey begins at the majestic York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe. The Minster is not just a starting point but a symbol of the historical depth you'll encounter on this trek. From here, the path winds through the quaint streets of York, exiting the city into the expansive landscapes that characterize rural Yorkshire. Through the Vale of York and the Yorkshire Wolds After leaving York, the Centenary Way heads northeast towards the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The route meanders through lush valleys and woodlands, offering tranquil views and a peaceful walking experience. The path then continues into the Yorkshire Wolds, known for their rolling hills and deep dry valleys, providing breathtaking vistas and challenging hikes. Historical Highlights and Natural Beauty One of the most enchanting aspects of the Centenary Way is its rich tapestry of historical sites. Castles, ancient ruins, and historic villages dot the landscape. Highlights include the ruins of Sheriff Hutton Castle, the serene beauty of Castle Howard’s grounds, and the market towns like Malton, known for its food festivals and Roman history. The trail also passes through less frequented, but equally mesmerizing, areas such as the River Derwent and the quaint village of Filey. Here, the trail shifts dramatically as it approaches the coast, culminating in the dramatic cliffs and expansive views of the North Sea at Filey Brigg. Calling points Click on the callings points below for more information: York MinsterHuntingtonNew EarswickStrensallWest LillingSheriff HuttonTerringtonSlingsbyConeysthorpeCastle HowardWelburnLow HuttonMaltonNortonSettringtonNorth GrimstonBirdsallThixendaleWharram PercyWintringhamWest HeslertonSherburnPotter BromptonGantonHunmanbyFiley Practical Tips for the Trail Planning Your Visit: The Centenary Way can be tackled in sections or as a whole over several days. Accommodations range from rustic camping sites to comfortable B&Bs, allowing for various levels of comfort and budget. What to Bring: Prepare for variable weather by dressing in layers and carrying waterproof gear. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, as the terrain can vary from flat footpaths to rugged hillside trails. Navigation: Waymarking along the Centenary Way is generally good, but carrying a detailed map or a GPS device is recommended to avoid any off-track adventures.
Walk: York River Walk
Enjoy this short stroll around the stunning medieval city of York, no trip to Yorkshire would be with a visit to the majestic city that combines thousands of years of history and heritage into a small area. The Route what3words for start point: ///bless.filled.card Start Point: York Finish Point: York Distance: 2 Miles GPX Route Map york-river-walkDownload Walk Description Walking alongside the River Ouse will give you a fantastic view of this great city whilst having the peace and quite of this waterway. The walk visits of Rowntree Park, named after the 19th century campaigner for improved living conditions Joseph Rowntree, as well as having beautiful views of the medieval York City Walls. This stroll also takes in the modern with views of the York millennium bridge built in 2001 as the newest river crossing point for the city. The history of the walls are complimented by the 11th century Clifford's Tower. Wherever you look on this walk you'll be taking photos. Why not visit some of York's great restaurants, cafes and pubs when you've finished to refuel? Or, if you're now in need of resting your weary legs, have a look at hotels in York's historic city centre.
Walk: Minster Way
The Minster Way is a scenic long-distance walking trail located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. Spanning approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers), the trail connects the historic towns of Beverley and York, two of the region's most notable ecclesiastical centers. The route is named after the grand Minsters found in these towns—Beverley Minster and York Minster—both of which are renowned for their stunning architecture and rich history. As you journey along the Minster Way, you'll encounter a variety of landscapes, from the gentle slopes of the Yorkshire Wolds to the flat plains surrounding the River Derwent. The route also offers cultural and historical points of interest, including ancient churches, traditional farms, and remnants of medieval settlements. Route What3Words: ///names.profile.reclining Distance: 50 miles Start location: Beverley Finish Location: York OS Walking Map & GPX Download Our OS map below shows the full route. Under the map, you can find a GPX file download for your navigational device. minster-way-routeDownload Walk Description Beverley The walk begins at Beverley Minster, an impressive Gothic church and one of the largest parish churches in the UK. New Arram A small hamlet situated northeast of Beverley. The route passes through this quiet, rural area, surrounded by farmlands. Scorborough Another small hamlet, known for its proximity to the River Hull. The area is largely agricultural, with open fields and traditional Yorkshire countryside. Thorpe A tiny settlement that leads directly into Lockington, a larger village known for its historic All Saints' Church, which has origins dating back to the 13th century. Kilnwick A picturesque village with traditional stone cottages. Nearby, Cawkeld is a small, secluded hamlet, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Bainton A historic village notable for its Norman church, St Andrew's, which has unique architecture including a rare round tower. The village lies on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds. North Dalton This charming village is set in the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds. It features the striking All Saints' Church, which dates back to the 12th century, and offers peaceful, rural surroundings. Millington A delightful village situated within the Yorkshire Wolds, known for its scenic walks, especially around Millington Woods and the nearby chalk valleys. The village church, St Margaret's, adds to its charm. Great Givendale A secluded hamlet, tucked away in the Wolds, with the small and picturesque St Ethelburga's Church. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. Bishop Wilton A lovely village nestled at the foot of the Wolds, featuring a village green and the historic church of St Edith. It’s a perfect spot for a rest, with stunning countryside views. Youlthorpe A small, quiet village that is typical of the rural East Riding of Yorkshire, offering a peaceful walk through agricultural land. Full Sutton Known primarily for its high-security prison, the village itself is surrounded by farmland and rural scenery. The route continues through these open landscapes. Stamford Bridge A historically significant village on the River Derwent, famous for the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066. The village has a mix of modern and traditional buildings, and the river crossing is a key feature. Low Catton A small village near Stamford Bridge, featuring St Mary's Church, a charming building with Norman origins. The surrounding area is rich in history and natural beauty. Kexby A hamlet on the eastern outskirts of York. The route here offers more rural scenery before transitioning into the suburban areas leading into York. Fulford Ings A low-lying area of flood meadows near York, along the banks of the River Ouse. The Ings are an important natural habitat, often used for grazing and offering a unique environment as you approach the city. York Minster The route concludes at York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. York itself is a city steeped in history, with the Minster as its crowning glory. The city offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, making it a fitting end to the Minster Way.