Getting Active in York: Our 10 Favourite Outdoor Activities

York is a city that is rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. But the city is also home to a vibrant and dynamic outdoor scene, with a wealth of opportunities for visitors and locals to get active and enjoy the great outdoors. In this article, we'll explore some of our favorite outdoor activities in York.

Walk the City Walls

Walking the City Walls is one of the most iconic and memorable outdoor activities in York. The walls date back to the medieval period and provide stunning views of the city's historic architecture, including York Minster and the Shambles. The walk is approximately 2.5 miles long and takes around two hours to complete, making it a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon and get some exercise at the same time.

The walls can be accessed at various points throughout the city and are free to walk. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history of the walls and the city itself through informational plaques and guided tours.

Explore the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are a stunning national park that is located just a short drive from York. The park boasts a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.

For hikers, the park offers a range of trails with varying degrees of difficulty. The famous Three Peaks Challenge involves hiking the three highest peaks in the park - Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough - in under 12 hours. The park also has a number of shorter trails, including the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail and the Malham Cove Trail.

Cyclists can enjoy a number of scenic routes through the park, including the Way of the Roses cycle route, which runs from Morecambe Bay to Bridlington. The park also has a number of mountain biking trails, including the Settle Loop and the Gisburn Forest trail.

For rock climbers, the park offers a range of climbing routes for all levels of experience, including the iconic Kilnsey Crag and the limestone cliffs at Malham Cove.

Row on the River Ouse

The River Ouse is a beautiful and tranquil spot in the heart of York. Visitors can rent rowboats and punts from the boathouse and explore the river at their leisure. The river offers stunning views of the city's historic architecture and is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a Segway Tour

Segway tours are a unique and fun way to explore York's outdoor spaces. Visitors can rent a Segway and take a guided tour through the city's historic streets and green spaces. The tours provide a unique perspective on the city and are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Visit York's Parks and Gardens

York has a number of beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for outdoor activities. The Museum Gardens, located in the heart of the city, offer a peaceful retreat from the busy streets. The gardens feature a variety of plant species, as well as historic ruins and the ruins of St. Mary's Abbey.

Dean's Park, located next to York Minster, is a quiet and peaceful green space that is perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Rowntree Park, located just south of the city center, offers a range of activities, including tennis, bowling, and miniature golf.

Visit the York Maze

The York Maze is a fun and unique outdoor attraction that is perfect for families. The maze features a range of puzzles and challenges, as well as a range of outdoor activities like zip-lining, bouncy castles, and a giant slide. The maze is open during the summer months and is a great way to spend a day outside with family and friends.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

York's beautiful countryside and historic architecture make it the perfect place to take a hot air balloon ride. Visitors can take a balloon ride over the city and the surrounding countryside, taking in the stunning views from high above. The rides are available throughout the year and offer a unique and memorable experience.

Cycle the Solar System

The Solar System Cycleway is a unique and educational cycling route that runs through York and the surrounding area. The route takes cyclists on a journey through the solar system, with each planet represented by a different stop along the way. The route is suitable for cyclists of all levels and is a great way to learn about the planets and our solar system.

Play Disc Golf

Disc golf is a fun and active outdoor activity that is similar to traditional golf, but uses flying discs instead of golf balls. York has several disc golf courses, including the Strensall and Heworth courses. The courses are free to play and offer a fun and unique way to get active outdoors.

Go Horseback Riding

York's beautiful countryside is the perfect setting for a horseback riding adventure. Visitors can take guided rides through the countryside, taking in the stunning views and experiencing the beauty of the natural landscape. The rides are suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experienced riders.

Conclusion

Whether you're a local or a visitor, York's outdoor scene is full of exciting and unique activities to explore. From walking the city walls to playing disc golf, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and historic city. So get outside and enjoy all that York has to offer!