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.
Download file for GPSWalk 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.
