Rowntree Park, York: A Historic Urban Oasis by the River Ouse
Historic riverside park in York offering gardens, sports, wildlife, and a welcoming café for all ages and interests.
Rowntree Park is a cherished 25-acre green space in York, England, located on Terry Avenue by the River Ouse. Open daily from dawn to dusk, this historic park offers a rich blend of natural beauty, recreational facilities including tennis courts, skate park, playgrounds, and a charming Reading Café. Gifted by the Rowntree family in 1921 as a memorial to Cocoa Works employees who suffered in World War I, the park features ornamental lakes, woodland walks, and war memorials, making it a tranquil yet lively destination for families, nature lovers, and sports enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Rowntree Park
- Terry Ave, York, YO23 1JQ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Rowntree Park Reading Café for seasonal, locally sourced food and a cozy library atmosphere.
- Explore the ornamental lake area for wildlife watching, including swans, ducks, and geese.
- Bring sports gear to enjoy the tennis courts, skate park, basketball court, and table tennis tables.
- Check the park’s status during periods of heavy rain, as flooding from the River Ouse can temporarily close the park.
- Use the park’s accessible paths for easy walking or cycling; note the café requires stair access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Frequent local bus services run from York city centre to Bishopthorpe Road, with stops near Rowntree Park. The journey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Check local timetables for current schedules and fares, usually around £2-£3 per single trip.
-
Walking
Rowntree Park is approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk from York city centre along the scenic River Ouse. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
-
Car
There is a pay-and-display car park adjacent to the park on Terry Avenue with some disabled bays available. Parking fees vary but are generally reasonable compared to central York. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak times.
-
Cycling
The park is accessible by bike via riverside paths and the Millennium Bridge. Bike racks are available at main entrances and throughout the park for secure parking.
Rowntree Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rowntree Park
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Remembrance
Rowntree Park was gifted to the city of York in 1921 by the Rowntree family, renowned for their confectionery business, as a memorial to the 200 employees of the Cocoa Works who suffered or died during World War I. This act of generosity created York’s first free-to-access municipal park, embodying both a tribute and a community resource. The park also commemorates World War II sacrifices, with a set of listed iron gates on Terry Avenue and bronze plaques at the centrally located Lych Gate serving as poignant reminders of the past.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Haven
Spanning approximately 25 acres, Rowntree Park is graced by the scenic River Ouse and features a large ornamental lake that attracts swans, ducks, and geese. Half of the lake is dedicated to model boating, adding a playful charm to the waterscape. The park’s northern section offers a peaceful woodland walk, ideal for birdwatching and quiet reflection. Well-maintained flower beds, hedges, and a horseshoe-shaped rockery with a cascading waterfall enhance the park’s aesthetic appeal, blending formal gardens with naturalistic landscapes.Recreational Facilities for All Ages
The park is well-equipped for active visitors, boasting six tennis courts managed by the Rowntree Park Tennis Club, a skate park, basketball court, and two table tennis tables. Children’s play areas are thoughtfully designed and spacious, providing safe and engaging environments for youngsters. The park’s flat, mostly level paths ensure accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs, although the Reading Café requires using stairs. The café itself is a vibrant community hub offering seasonal, locally sourced food, a library service, and hosting various events.Community and Cultural Engagement
Rowntree Park is more than a green space; it is a community focal point. The Friends of Rowntree Park actively maintain parts of the park and organize events that foster local engagement. The Reading Café serves as a social and cultural venue, with activities and private hire options that enhance the park’s role as a gathering place. The park’s open-air performance space and well-kept lawns invite visitors to relax, picnic, or enjoy informal gatherings.Environmental Considerations and Accessibility
Situated on a flood plain, Rowntree Park occasionally experiences flooding from the River Ouse, which can close the park temporarily. The management team and Friends group keep the public informed about such events. The park offers easy access from multiple entrances and is reachable by foot, bike, or bus from York city centre. On-site amenities include clean public toilets, a car park with disabled bays, bike racks, and seating areas, making it convenient for visitors of all abilities.A Year-Round Destination with Varied Experiences
Open daily from 8:00 am until dusk, with longer summer hours, Rowntree Park welcomes visitors year-round except Christmas Day. It offers a blend of tranquility and activity, from serene wildlife watching and woodland strolls to energetic sports and family play. The park’s historical significance, natural beauty, and community spirit make it a unique and enduring feature of York’s urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Millennium Bridge
0.4 km
Contemporary engineering meets riverside beauty—York's illuminated pedestrian bridge spanning the Ouse.
Ouse Bridge
1.0 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
Walmgate Bar
1.0 km
York’s most complete medieval gatehouse, with the only surviving town gate barbican in England and a quirky coffee house inside its ancient walls.
Historic England - York Office
1.1 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Parliament St
1.1 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
St Crux
1.1 km
Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
The Stonebow
1.2 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
11 Shambles
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Red Tower
1.2 km
Explore the historic Red Tower in York, a captivating landmark that showcases the city's rich medieval heritage and stunning architecture.
The York Ghost Merchants
1.2 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
DIG: An Archaeological Adventure
1.2 km
Explore the depths of history at DIG in York, where archaeology comes alive through interactive exhibits and hands-on adventures for all ages.
Ghost Hunt of York
1.2 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
GR8escape York
1.2 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at GR8escape York, the ultimate escape room destination for fun, teamwork, and unforgettable memories in the heart of York.
Roman Bath
1.2 km
Discover ancient Roman baths beneath a lively York pub, blending history and hospitality in the heart of the city.
York's Chocolate Story
1.2 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pikeing Well
0.2 km
An 18th-century ornamental well by John Carr on York’s scenic New Walk, blending medieval stonework with historic riverside charm.
Skeldergate Bridge & Bishopgate St
0.6 km
Historic Victorian Gothic Revival bridge over the River Ouse, blending York’s past with scenic riverside charm and modern social spaces.
Baile Hill
0.6 km
Explore Baile Hill, York’s serene Norman motte and bailey castle site with rich history and stunning views of York Minster.
Skeldergate Bridge
0.6 km
A Victorian Gothic iron bridge offering scenic River Ouse views and a glimpse into York’s rich industrial heritage.
Tower Gardens
0.6 km
A serene, shaded garden by the River Ouse offering peaceful riverside views and a quiet escape near York’s historic Clifford’s Tower.
Fishergate Postern Tower
0.7 km
Discover the Fishergate Postern Tower, a historical landmark in York offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past and stunning views.
Fishergate Bar
0.7 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Fishergate Bar, a captivating landmark in York rich with stories and charm.
York Barbican
0.7 km
York's premier indoor entertainment venue hosting world-class concerts, comedy, sports, and conferences.
York Castle Museum
0.7 km
Step back in time at York Castle Museum, where historic prison walls and a vibrant Victorian street bring York’s rich past vividly to life.
Dick Turpins grave
0.8 km
Discover the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin’s final resting place in York’s historic St George’s Churchyard, steeped in legend and 18th-century intrigue.
Clifford's Tower, York
0.8 km
Explore York’s iconic Clifford's Tower, a historic fortress with panoramic city views and a millennium of dramatic history.
York Army Museum
0.8 km
Explore centuries of Yorkshire military history through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at York Army Museum.
The Royal Dragoon Guards Museum and Regimental Association
0.8 km
Three centuries of cavalry heritage preserved in York's historic heart, where personal stories meet military grandeur.
Fairfax House
0.9 km
Step into the refined world of Georgian York at Fairfax House, a stunningly preserved townhouse showcasing exquisite 18th-century art, architecture, and history.
The York Dungeon
0.9 km
Step into York’s darkest history with live actors, chilling shows, and immersive effects at The York Dungeon.
Essential places to dine
Melton's Restaurant
0.4 km
An intimate York gem offering inventive Modern British tasting menus with expert wine pairings in a warm, unpretentious setting.
The Olive Tree
0.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and fresh seasonal dishes in the heart of historic York, near Clifford’s Tower.
31 Castlegate Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience refined modern European dining in the historic heart of York, blending seasonal flavors with warm hospitality.
Rustique Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience authentic French flavors and vibrant bistro charm at Rustique, York’s beloved French restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and great value.
Corner Grill House
0.9 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Tabanco By Ambiente
1.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and sherry in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Tabanco By Ambiente in York’s historic Walmgate.
Il Paradiso Del Cibo
1.0 km
A lively, cash-only Italian gem on Walmgate, serving authentic Sardinian-style pizzas, pastas, and hearty meat dishes in a bustling, family-run setting.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
1.0 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Delrio's Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sardinian cuisine in York’s cozy cellar setting, where passion and tradition create unforgettable flavors.
The Blue Barbakan
1.0 km
Experience hearty Polish classics and warm hospitality in York’s vibrant Fossgate at The Blue Barbakan.
Kapadokya
1.0 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Ambiente Tapas Fossgate
1.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in York’s stylish Ambiente Tapas Fossgate, perfect for sharing, sipping, and socializing.
Pavement Vaults
1.0 km
Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
Partisan
1.0 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Ate O'Clock
1.1 km
Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fenwick York
0.9 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and homeware at Fenwick York, a boutique department store nestled in the heart of Coppergate Centre.
Dog & Bone Vintage
0.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique homewares in York’s charming Dog & Bone Vintage, where style meets sustainability across two floors.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.9 km
Scandinavian creativity meets quirky British charm in this beloved gift and lifestyle shop.
Greybear
1.0 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
York Souvenir's
1.0 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Expressions
1.0 km
Discover unique vintage American sportswear and retro styles at Expressions, York’s friendly and authentic vintage clothing shop on historic Walmgate.
Give The Dog A Bone
1.1 km
Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
Hidden Treasures
1.1 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Gift Gallery
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
1.2 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Pride of York Souvenirs
1.2 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Take One Gifts
1.2 km
Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
1.2 km
Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Cello by Collectables
1.2 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Sterling Souvenirs
1.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dyls
0.6 km
Historic bridge tower café-bar in York offering riverside views, locally sourced brunch, and vegan-friendly delights in a cozy, unique setting.
Plonkers
0.9 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.9 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
1.0 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
Tank & Paddle York
1.0 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Jalou York
1.0 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
The Three Tuns
1.0 km
Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Social 8 Lounge
1.0 km
Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Fossgate Social
1.1 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Golden Fleece York
1.1 km
York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Hop York
1.1 km
A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
The Blue Bell
1.1 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Pitcher & Piano York
1.1 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Revolution York
1.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Dusk
1.2 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kuda
0.9 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Popworld York
1.0 km
York’s lively nightclub with five decades of pop hits, a unique revolving dancefloor, and a safe, fun party atmosphere.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.0 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.0 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Club Salvation
1.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.1 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Flares - York
1.2 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
BlueBox
1.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
32.5 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.5 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.1 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.3 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.3 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
34.5 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
Wire
34.5 km
A compact, music-first basement club on Call Lane where tight crowds and a punchy sound system make late-night electronic parties feel immediate and intense.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
