Foss Fairy Trail: Enchanting Riverside Woodland Walk in York
Discover York’s enchanting Foss Fairy Trail, a magical riverside walk filled with whimsical fairy houses and community spirit, open year-round for free.
The Foss Fairy Trail is a magical, free-access woodland walk along the River Foss in Heworth, York. This community-led trail features whimsical fairy houses nestled among trees and natural surroundings, inviting visitors of all ages to explore folklore and nature. Open 24/7 year-round, the trail offers about a 1.5 km path suitable for families, nature lovers, and fairy enthusiasts, though some sections are uneven and not fully wheelchair accessible.
A brief summary to Foss Fairy Trail
- A1036, York, Heworth, YO31 8RP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as some parts of the trail have uneven ground and can be muddy, especially near the fairy houses.
- Bring a pushchair if needed; access is via Heworth Green, but note the trail is not fully wheelchair accessible.
- No on-site toilets or cafes are available, so plan accordingly; nearby facilities are at Sainsburys in York.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife and fairy homes.
- Take your time to explore the fairy houses and enjoy the natural surroundings; the trail can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on your pace.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take York’s local bus services to the Heworth Green area; buses run frequently from the city center with a travel time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Walking from the nearest stop to the trail entrance takes about 5 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 depending on the route.
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Car
Drive to the Heworth area and park at nearby Foss Bank Car Park, open 8am-8pm with pay-and-display charges up to £2.30 per hour. From the car park, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the trail entrance. Street parking is limited and time-restricted.
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Walking
From York city center, walking to the Foss Fairy Trail takes approximately 30-40 minutes along mostly flat terrain. The route passes through urban and riverside areas, suitable for most walkers but not recommended for those requiring mobility assistance due to some uneven ground near the trail entrance.
Foss Fairy Trail location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Foss Fairy Trail
A Magical Community Creation Along the River Foss
The Foss Fairy Trail is a charming woodland path that winds alongside the River Foss in the Heworth area of York. Conceived and maintained by local volunteers, this trail transforms a once-neglected riverside area into a vibrant community space filled with enchanting fairy houses and natural beauty. The trail’s origins date back to early 2021, when it was created as a joyful escape during lockdown, fostering a sense of wonder and connection to nature for visitors of all ages.Whimsical Fairy Houses and Folklore
Scattered throughout the trail are numerous handcrafted fairy houses, each with its own character and story. These miniature abodes, often nestled in tree roots, mossy logs, or hidden corners, invite visitors to step into a world of folklore and imagination. The fairy houses are lovingly maintained by volunteers who ensure the magic remains alive and vibrant. Visitors can also discover local flora and fauna, enriching the experience with natural history alongside the fairy tale charm.A Family-Friendly Nature Escape
Stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers, the trail typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to walk, depending on how much time you spend exploring. It is suitable for families with children and those seeking a peaceful outdoor stroll. While the path is mostly clear and dry in good weather, some areas are uneven and narrow, with natural obstacles such as tree roots and proximity to the river. Pushchairs can access the trail via the Heworth Green entrance, but wheelchair access is limited due to terrain and a step at the entry.Open Access and Community Involvement
The Foss Fairy Trail is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, with free entry for all visitors. There are no on-site facilities such as toilets or cafes, so visitors are advised to prepare accordingly. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads to protect the fairy homes and local wildlife. The trail encourages community participation, inviting locals to contribute fairy houses and volunteer to help maintain the trail’s upkeep and magic.Events and Conservation Efforts
Throughout the year, the Foss Fairy Trail hosts family-friendly events such as Easter egg hunts and nature festivals that celebrate the local environment and community spirit. The trail is also part of a broader conservation effort aiming to encourage wildlife to return to the area, enhancing biodiversity along the riverbank. This blend of enchantment and ecological stewardship makes the trail a unique and meaningful destination.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Visitors should wear suitable footwear due to occasional muddy patches and uneven ground. Limited seating is available near the entrance, with few benches along the trail itself. Parking is not provided on-site, but nearby options include Foss Bank Car Park and street parking with time limits. The trail is best enjoyed in dry weather and mild temperatures, as it offers no shelter from rain or wind. Experience the Foss Fairy Trail as a serene escape into a fairy-tale world nestled within York’s natural landscape, where community spirit and nature’s beauty intertwine to create a truly magical outdoor adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval Walls
0.6 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Sundial Column
0.6 km
An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
0.7 km
A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Roman Column
0.7 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
The Stonebow
0.7 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.8 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.8 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
The Norman House
0.8 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.8 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
St Crux
0.8 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.
Bootham Bar
0.8 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
28 Shambles
0.8 km
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
0.8 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
York Oratory
0.9 km
Experience the beauty and serenity of York Oratory, a stunning Catholic church and historical landmark in the heart of York, England.
Unmissable attractions to see
York
0.4 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
York City Walls
0.5 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
Monk Bar
0.5 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
Merchant Taylors' Hall
0.5 km
Step into over 600 years of history at Merchant Taylors' Hall, York’s enchanting medieval venue for weddings and events.
City Wall Walk
0.5 km
Walk atop nearly 2,000 years of history on York’s most complete medieval city walls, offering panoramic views and timeless stories at every step.
St Cuthbert's House of Prayer
0.5 km
Historic 15th-century Gothic church in York, now The Well Prayer House, blending medieval heritage with modern spiritual reflection.
Peasholme Grn
0.5 km
Historic Peasholme Green in York blends medieval market heritage, iconic pubs, and vibrant cultural life in a unique urban setting.
St Anthonys Garden
0.5 km
Discover a serene, historic garden oasis in York blending medieval heritage, sensory planting, and tranquil green space beneath ancient city walls.
The Golden Slipper
0.5 km
Step into York’s medieval past at The Golden Slipper, a historic pub on Goodramgate blending centuries-old charm with traditional hospitality.
National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
0.6 km
Discover a historic townhouse behind York Minster, where lavish interiors, award-winning gardens, and centuries of stories await.
Bedern Hall
0.6 km
Step into Bedern Hall, a stunning medieval guild hall in York where history, architecture, and community converge in timeless elegance.
The Bloody Tour of York
0.6 km
York's darkest stories come alive through theatrical storytelling and genuine historical insight.
Robin Hood Tower
0.6 km
Explore the enchanting Robin Hood Tower in York, a historical landmark steeped in folklore and rich architectural beauty.
The Black Swan
0.6 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of The Black Swan, a traditional pub in York offering local ales and authentic British cuisine.
Minster Yard
0.6 km
Historic Minster Yard in York surrounds the majestic York Minster, blending medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Essential places to dine
Little Italy
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Arras
0.6 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
0.6 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
0.7 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Forest
0.7 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Fat Hippo York
0.7 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
La Vecchia Scuola
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Côte York
0.7 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Wildwood
0.7 km
Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
Lucia Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Guy Fawkes Inn
0.8 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
0.8 km
A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Los Moros
0.8 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
0.8 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old York
0.4 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
Village Shop
0.5 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in York’s historic heart at the Village Shop, open daily with expert guidance and a warm atmosphere.
Monk Bar Model Shop
0.5 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cleggs
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
National Trust Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique National Trust gifts and local crafts in a historic York setting supporting conservation and heritage.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
0.6 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
Fairer World
0.7 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
York Minster Shop
0.7 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Snowhome
0.7 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Pandora
0.7 km
Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
SOCTOPUS
0.7 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.7 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
The Cat Gallery
0.7 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Shared Earth
0.8 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Sterling Souvenirs
0.8 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
Royal Oak
0.5 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
0.8 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Vudu Lounge
0.8 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Pivní York
0.8 km
Historic 16th-century timber-framed pub in York offering an exceptional selection of local and global craft beers in a cosy, multi-floor setting.
Evil Eye
0.8 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Eagle & Child
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
0.8 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Victor J's
0.8 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.8 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
The Hop York
0.8 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
0.8 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.9 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Golden Fleece York
0.9 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 Fossgate Social
0.9 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Punch Bowl
0.9 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
1.0 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
1.1 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
1.2 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
1.2 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.3 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Popworld York
1.3 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
1.3 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
1.3 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Big Fellas Nightclub
34.3 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.9 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
35.5 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
35.7 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
35.7 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
35.8 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.9 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
