Rawcliffe Country Park: Nature, Adventure, and Community in York
Explore York’s Rawcliffe Country Park, a 24/7 natural retreat with climbing, biking, trails, and community events for all ages.
Rawcliffe Country Park, located in the suburb of Rawcliffe in York, offers a vast natural space with woodlands, meadows, and riverside trails. It features a unique 3-meter climbing boulder, pump bike tracks, children’s play areas, and sports facilities, making it ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Open 24/7, the park blends recreational activities with wildlife habitats, supported by community events and educational programs.
A brief summary to Rawcliffe Country Park
- York, Rawcliffe, GB
- +441904553676
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 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
- Try the climbing boulder—free to use and suitable for all ages and skill levels, no equipment needed.
- Bring your bike to enjoy the pump bike tracks with jumps and turns for various skill levels.
- Use the Park and Ride bus from York city centre for convenient and frequent access to the park.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches and picnic spots scattered throughout the park.
- Participate in community events or nature walks to deepen your connection with the park’s wildlife and local culture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent Park and Ride buses run from Museum Street in York city centre to Rawcliffe Bar adjacent to the park, with a travel time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost around £3 for a return journey. Service frequency is high during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Cycling
National Cycle Route 65 passes directly by Rawcliffe Country Park, connecting it to York city centre. The ride takes about 25 to 35 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for cyclists of all levels. Bike parking is available near the park entrance.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use on-street parking in the surrounding Rawcliffe residential area, as there is no dedicated council pay-and-display car park. The nearby Rawcliffe Bar Park and Ride offers parking but overnight parking is prohibited. Travel time from York city centre is approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.
Rawcliffe Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Rawcliffe Country Park
A Living Green Space in York’s Suburb
Rawcliffe Country Park is a cherished natural haven situated in the Rawcliffe suburb northwest of York city centre. Established with the planting of over 2,000 trees and 1,500 woodland shrubs, the park continues to develop its diverse woodland environment, including willow, birch, pine, oak, and ash trees. Shrubs such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and dog rose provide essential nesting cover and food for numerous bird species, making the park a vibrant wildlife habitat. Its continuous recognition with the Green Flag Award since 2009 underscores its status as one of the UK’s best-managed green spaces.Recreational Facilities for All Ages
The park’s extensive facilities cater to a wide range of visitors. A standout feature is the climbing boulder, a 3-meter high structure offering more than 60 square meters of climbing surfaces suitable for all ages and skill levels, from young children to adults. No prior experience or equipment is needed, inviting novices and seasoned climbers alike to enjoy its numerous routes. Adjacent to this is the pump bike track, designed to thrill off-road cycling enthusiasts with two circular tracks—a challenging 70-meter inner loop and a gentler 140-meter outer loop—connected by paths for easy movement. For younger visitors, well-maintained play areas with swings, slides, and climbing frames provide safe and engaging environments.Trails, Sports, and Community Engagement
Rawcliffe Country Park features a network of walking and cycling trails that weave through woodlands, meadows, and along the River Ouse, perfect for casual strolls, jogging, or cycling. Dedicated sports areas accommodate football and other activities, while open spaces invite yoga, frisbee, and fitness classes. The park hosts community events such as family fun days with games and face painting, nature walks led by local naturalists, and volunteer clean-up initiatives that foster a strong community spirit.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Open 24 hours daily, the park offers easy access via the adjacent Rawcliffe Bar Park and Ride and is served by frequent bus routes from York city centre. While there is no dedicated council pay-and-display parking, nearby on-street parking is available with consideration for residents. Public toilets are accessible at the Park and Ride site. The Country Park Office serves as a venue for special events and educational activities, including school parties.Natural Beauty and Seasonal Appeal
Visitors can enjoy the park in all seasons, with its scenic landscapes offering tranquil spots for relaxation and wildlife observation. The combination of woodlands, riverside views, and open meadows creates a peaceful atmosphere that changes with the seasons, from vibrant spring blossoms to the golden hues of autumn.A Destination for Everyone
Rawcliffe Country Park appeals to families, solo visitors, and groups seeking a blend of nature, adventure, and community engagement. Its inclusive facilities and welcoming environment make it a versatile destination for recreation, education, and relaxation in York.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bootham Bar
3.3 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
Medieval Walls
3.3 km
Walk England’s longest medieval walls, tracing 2,000 years of York’s history with stunning city views and iconic fortified gateways.
Anglian Tower
3.3 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
3.3 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. Leonard's Hospital
3.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
3.4 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
3.4 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.
The Norman House
3.5 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Roman Column
3.5 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Historic England - York Office
3.5 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Sundial Column
3.5 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 Deathly Dark Tours
3.5 km
Unearth the chilling tales of York's past with The Deathly Dark Tours, where ghostly legends and history intertwine for an unforgettable adventure.
Peregrine Falcon Mural
3.6 km
A vibrant community-inspired mural celebrating York's heritage, featuring a peregrine falcon and local voices.
Monk Bar
3.6 km
Medieval fortress and gateway guarding York's northeastern entrance since the 14th century.
Micklegate Bar
3.6 km
Explore the historical significance of Micklegate Bar, a majestic gateway that tells the story of York's medieval past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Flip Out York (Previously Point Zero Trampoline Park York)
1.0 km
Energetic indoor trampoline and adventure park in York, perfect for family fun, active play, and all-age excitement.
York Cold War Bunker
2.9 km
Explore York’s preserved Cold War bunker, a gripping museum revealing Britain’s nuclear defense history through authentic rooms and expert-led tours.
National Railway Museum York
3.0 km
Explore Britain's rich railway heritage with iconic locomotives, interactive exhibits, and historic carriages at York's National Railway Museum.
Miniature Railway
3.0 km
A charming miniature railway ride nestled within York’s National Railway Museum, blending family fun with historic railway heritage.
Holgate Windmill
3.1 km
York’s last working 18th-century windmill, grinding flour atop a suburban hill with historic charm and panoramic city views.
St Olave's Church York
3.1 km
Discover York’s medieval St Olave’s Church, a tranquil sanctuary rich in Viking heritage, stunning stained glass, and centuries of history.
York City Sightseeing
3.2 km
Discover York’s 2,000 years of history aboard an open-top bus with live guides, hop-on hop-off freedom, and multilingual commentary.
Invisible Cities - Walking Tours York
3.2 km
Alternative walking tours of York led by local guides with lived experience of homelessness, blending history, personal stories, and social impact.
York Art Gallery
3.2 km
Discover centuries of British art and vibrant contemporary exhibitions in York’s historic and beautifully restored art gallery.
Association Of Voluntary Guides Meeting Place
3.2 km
Starting point for free, expert-led walking tours revealing York’s rich history and vibrant culture every day except Christmas.
Museum Gardens
3.2 km
Discover York Museum Gardens: a historic botanical oasis blending medieval ruins, lush greenery, and vibrant community life in the city centre.
King's Manor - University of York
3.2 km
A historic Tudor and Stuart manor in York city centre, blending royal heritage with academic excellence since the 15th century.
William Etty
3.2 km
A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
Yorkshire Museum
3.2 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich history from prehistoric fossils to Viking treasures in York’s iconic Greek Revival museum nestled in tranquil gardens.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
3.2 km
A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
Essential places to dine
Roots York
3.1 km
Discover Roots York, a Michelin-starred gem offering seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus in a historic 19th-century setting with warm, refined ambiance.
The Star Inn The City
3.3 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Brew & Brownie
3.4 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Rise
3.4 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
Guy Fawkes Inn
3.4 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
3.5 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
3.5 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
The Botanist York
3.5 km
A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant on York’s historic Stonegate, blending fresh seasonal cuisine with live music and lush, nature-inspired interiors.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
3.5 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
3.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
3.5 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Côte York
3.5 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
Fat Hippo York
3.5 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
3.5 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Los Moros
3.6 km
Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Uniquely Local Experiences
1.9 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
Fairer World
3.2 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Snowhome
3.2 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
Old York
3.3 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
The Imaginarium
3.4 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
3.4 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
York Minster Shop
3.5 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
Shared Earth
3.5 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
3.5 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Rookscroft
3.5 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
3.5 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
3.5 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Hidden Treasures
3.5 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Monk Bar Model Shop
3.6 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Paper Doll
3.6 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eagle & Child
3.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
York Tap
3.3 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
The Maltings
3.4 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
3.4 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
3.4 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Lendal Cellars
3.5 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
Evil Eye
3.5 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
The Punch Bowl
3.5 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
3.5 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
Revolution York
3.5 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
3.6 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Dusk
3.6 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Royal Oak
3.6 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
3.6 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Pitcher & Piano York
3.6 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flares - York
3.5 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
3.5 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
BlueBox
3.6 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
3.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
3.6 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Popworld York
3.6 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Kuda
3.9 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
4.7 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.4 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.0 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.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.2 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
Disco Stu's
34.2 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 Key Club
34.3 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
34.4 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
Wire
34.4 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
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly