The Top Five Best Walks in York

There's nothing quite like a brisk walk to clear your head, and York is the perfect place for it. With its winding streets and charming architecture, the city is a delight to explore on foot. So, with that said, here’s our list of five of the best walks in York.

1. York Museum Gardens Walk

To kick off our list of the five best walks in York we’re starting with The York Museum Gardens. The York Museum Gardens are a beautiful and serene spot in the heart of the city. You can enjoy walking along the pathways, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. The gardens are home to a variety of birds, squirrels, and other wildlife, making it a perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In addition to being a lovely place to take a stroll, the York Museum Gardens are also home to a number of historical artefacts. The gardens were once part of the ancient Roman fortress of Eboracum, and many artefacts from that time period can still be seen today. With its rich history and beautiful setting, the York Museum Gardens are a must-see when you’re visiting York.

• Local history
• Nearest Station: York Train Station
• Website: York Museum Gardens

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by York Museum Gardens (@yorkmuseumgardens)

2. The River Ouse Walking Trail

The River Ouse walking trail in York is a scenic path that follows the river through the English countryside. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for casual walkers and experienced hikers alike. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and verdant forests. The trail also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, as you may spot herons, kingfishers, and otters along the river. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a deer in the woods. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk in York or an adventurous hike, the River Ouse walking trail is sure to please.

• Scenic route
• Nearest Station: York Train Station
• Website: River Ouse Walking Trail

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Mike @ SkyShift: Drone Video, Photo & Mapping Services, York 🇬🇧 (@skyshift.uk)

3. York City Walls Walk

The York City Walls walking trail is the perfect way to explore this historic city and definitely makes our list of the best walks in York! The trail follows the path of the medieval walls that once surrounded York, and it offers stunning views of the cityscape. Along the way, you'll pass by iconic landmarks such as York Minster and Clifford's Tower. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike. Whether you're a local looking to discover hidden corners of your city or a visitor seeking an authentic experience, the York City Walls Walking Trail is sure to satisfy.

• Local history and culture
• Nearest Station: York Train Station
• Website: York Walls Walking Trail

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Real Yorkshire Tours (@real_yorkshire)

 

 

 

 

 

4. Skelton Walking Trail

The walk from Rawcliffe Ings to Skelton is another of York's best walks! On this trail you can explore the village of Skelton which is known for lying in an area once covered by an ancient forest. Following the trail takes you along the beautiful River Derwent and passes through lush woodland, meadows, and Rawcliffe lake. The route is well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or family day out. Highlights of this York walk include views of the river and its many quaint bridges.

• Rich history
• Nearest Station: Poppleton Train Station
• Website: Skelton Walking Trail

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Caroline (@shmaza30)

5. York Cat Trail

If you're a fan of cats, this York walking trail is the one for you! The city has 20 adorable cat statues scattered around its downtown area, and they're all part of a fun cat trail you can walk. The York Cat trail is a great way to see all the sights of York's charming city centre, and it's a lot of fun to try and find all the cats. Some are easy to spot, while others are well-hidden, so it's a fun challenge for cat lovers of all ages. And if you get lost along the way, don't worry – there's no wrong way to do the cat trail! So grab your friends and head to York for a paws-itively delightful day out.

• Unique day out
• Nearest Station: York Train Station
• Website: York Cat Trail

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by People Make History (@peoplemakehistory)

There we have it, five of the best York walks! Whether you opt for an adventurous York walk like heading out into Skelton, or something more unique like the York Cat Trail, you are sure to have an interesting and exciting day out walking in York. All of the places on our list are accessible via our network, so you can sit back, relax, and let someone else drive you home after your active day outdoors in York.