Discover the Enchantment of Foss Fairy Trail
Explore the magical Foss Fairy Trail in York, where nature and fairy tales intertwine for a unique family experience.
Embark on a magical journey along the Foss Fairy Trail in York, where enchanting scenery and whimsical fairy tales await. Perfect for families and nature lovers, this trail offers an immersive experience for all ages, filled with delightful surprises and picturesque views.
A brief summary to Foss Fairy Trail
- A1036, York, Heworth, YO31 8RP, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photos.
- Don’t forget to bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
- Keep an eye out for special events or activities that may be happening along the trail.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail may have uneven terrain in some areas.
- Bring along a sketchbook or journal to capture your thoughts and impressions of this magical place.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the York city center, head east towards the River Foss. Walk along Fossgate until you reach the intersection with Walmgate. Continue straight onto the A1036 (Foss Islands Road) and follow it for approximately 1 mile. You will pass through a residential area called Heworth. Look for signs indicating the Foss Fairy Trail as you approach your destination.
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Public Transport (Bus)
From the city center, head to the bus stop at Parliament Street. Take the number 10 or 11 bus towards Heworth. The journey will take about 10-15 minutes. Get off at the 'Heworth Green' stop. From there, walk east along Heworth Green and turn left onto the A1036. Continue walking for about 10 minutes until you reach the Foss Fairy Trail.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing stations in the city center. Head east towards the River Foss, following the cycling path along Fossgate. Continue onto the A1036, cycling through Heworth. After about 2 miles, look for the signs directing you to the Foss Fairy Trail. It's a scenic ride that will take about 15-20 minutes depending on your speed.
Discover more about Foss Fairy Trail
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.
