Strensall Common Nature Reserve
Vibrant heathland sanctuary where military heritage and nature conservation create a unique Yorkshire wilderness.
Strensall Common is a sprawling 660-hectare heathland nature reserve north of York, managed by the MOD and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. This Site of Special Scientific Interest showcases vibrant cross-leaved heath and ling heather, alongside common lizards, breeding birds, and seasonal migrants. With accessible walking trails, two car parks, and a distinctive landscape shaped by military heritage, it offers an immersive natural escape close to the city.
A brief summary to YWT Strensall Common
- Common Rd, York, Strensall, YO32 5YB, GB
- +441904659570
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 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
- Visit on Friday when the entire reserve is typically accessible apart from the shooting ranges, avoiding the weekday 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM closure of the central and southern areas.
- Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide; spring and autumn migrations offer excellent opportunities to spot Whinchat, Wheatear, and Common Redstart alongside resident species.
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing as the open heathland provides minimal shelter; conditions can change rapidly, especially in winter and during windy periods.
- Check the display boards at either car park for current firing times and access restrictions before setting out on your walk.
- Explore the signposted nature trail connecting the two car parks for an accessible introduction to the reserve's habitats and wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Bus
From York city centre, take the number 5 or 5A bus service towards Strensall. Journey time is approximately 20–25 minutes. Alight at the stop opposite the camp near the Garage, then walk northeast along Ox Carr Lane (with the Six Bells Pub on your left) for approximately 500 metres until you reach a blue and white sign marking Scott Moncrieff Road, which leads to the southern car park. This option is free with a valid pass or costs around £2–3 per journey.
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Private Car via Scott Moncrieff Road
From York, head north towards Strensall and Flaxton. Follow signs to Scott Moncrieff Road, opposite Moor Lane in Strensall (grid reference SE 636 598). The car park is clearly signposted and provides access to the southern part of the reserve when shooting ranges are not in use. Journey time from York city centre is approximately 15–20 minutes. Parking is free. Note that the southern area is typically closed 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays due to military training.
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Private Car via Galtres Car Park
From York, drive north towards Strensall and Flaxton. Continue past the golf course and turn right immediately after the first cattle grid at Galtres Car Park (grid reference SE 649 612), opposite Moorside Caravan Park. Journey time from York is approximately 18–22 minutes. Parking is free. This car park provides year-round access to the northern section of the reserve and is the preferred option for longer walks and circular routes. The northern area is normally open at all times.
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Train and Walk
Take a train to York railway station (services run from across the UK). From York station, either take the number 5 or 5A bus as described above, or arrange a taxi to either car park (approximately 15–20 minutes, typical fare £12–18). This option is useful for visitors arriving from further afield without a vehicle.
YWT Strensall Common location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about YWT Strensall Common
A Heathland Shaped by History and Conservation
Strensall Common stretches across 660 hectares of open heathland between Strensall and Flaxton, north of York. Owned and managed by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with conservation groups, this Site of Special Scientific Interest represents one of the region's most important habitats. The landscape is characterized by rolling expanses of cross-leaved heath and ling heather, interspersed with silver birch and scattered vegetation that create a distinctive moorland character. The reserve's dual purpose—military training area and nature reserve—has paradoxically preserved this habitat from development, creating a rare refuge for wildlife within easy reach of the city.Flora and Fauna Throughout the Seasons
The common supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life that shifts with the seasons. In spring and summer, the heathland erupts with colour as cross-leaved heath displays its distinctive pink flower heads against grey-green foliage, while ling heather adds purple spikes to the landscape. Common lizards bask on stumps of silver birch, taking advantage of the open, sunny terrain. Breeding birds including Nightjar, Tree Pipit, and Woodlark nest within the heathland, making it a crucial breeding ground for species that depend on open moorland habitat. Autumn brings passing migrants to the common, with Whinchat, Wheatear, and Common Redstart occasionally recorded on passage. Winter quietens the reserve, though Meadow Pipits, Reed Bunting, Stonechat, and Green Woodpeckers remain year-round. Occasional sightings of Hen Harrier, Lesser Redpoll, and Short-eared Owls add excitement to winter birdwatching, particularly over the northern sections. A large corvid roost gathers in the central area during the colder months, creating dramatic evening spectacles as birds return to roost.Navigating Access and Firing Schedules
The reserve operates under specific access protocols due to its active military use. Two main car parks serve visitors: Scott Moncrieff Road car park (near Moor Lane) provides access to the southern part when shooting ranges are not in use, while Galtres car park, located one mile further north past the golf course, offers year-round access to the northern section. Display boards at both locations provide maps, firing times, and visitor information. A signposted nature trail connects the two car parks, offering an accessible introduction to the reserve's habitats. The central and southern areas are typically fenced and closed from 7:30 AM to approximately 4:30 PM on most weekdays due to live firing practice. Friday is normally a maintenance day with no firing, making it the ideal day for exploring the entire reserve apart from the shooting ranges themselves. Access gates are always locked when the ranges are in use, preventing accidental entry into danger zones. Longer circular walks are available from Galtres car park, with metalled tracks and paths leading east and southeast through the northern heathland.Pathways and Walking Opportunities
The reserve offers varied walking experiences suited to different abilities and time commitments. Short walks from either car park take visitors through representative sections of heathland, while longer circular routes from Galtres car park explore the more extensive northern landscape. The paths range from well-maintained tracks to less-travelled routes where exploration feels like genuine adventure. The open terrain and relatively flat topography make most areas accessible to walkers of moderate fitness, though the exposed nature of the heathland means weather conditions can change rapidly.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Visitors should check firing schedules before planning their visit, as access restrictions vary significantly depending on military training activities. The reserve is accessible by public transport via bus services from York, with the number 5 or 5A bus serving the southern car park area. Parking is available at both main locations, though weekends can be busy. The exposed heathland offers little shelter from wind or rain, so appropriate clothing is essential. Mobile signal coverage is generally adequate throughout the reserve, and the site is managed to maintain its natural character with minimal facilities, preserving the authentic moorland experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval Walls
10.0 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
10.2 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
10.2 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.
Bootham Bar
10.2 km
Explore Bootham Bar, York’s medieval gateway with Roman roots, historic portcullis, and stunning views of the city’s ancient walls and Minster.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
10.3 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
Roman Column
10.3 km
A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
10.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
The Norman House
10.3 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Stonebow
10.4 km
A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Anglian Tower
10.4 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
York's Chocolate Story
10.4 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
GR8escape York
10.4 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.
Ghost Hunt of York
10.4 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
10.4 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
11 Shambles
10.4 km
Explore the enchanting 11 Shambles in York, a medieval street with charming shops, historic architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piglets Adventure Farm
2.4 km
A vibrant family farm near York with hands-on animal encounters, adventure play, and seasonal events for all ages.
Medieval Village of East Lilling
3.5 km
Explore the haunting earthworks of East Lilling, a deserted medieval village near York steeped in history and surrounded by serene countryside.
Cravens Motocycle Museum
6.0 km
A passionate private collection of classic British motorcycles and motoring memorabilia, hidden in a quiet York suburb.
Sutton Park
7.4 km
Historic Sutton Park in York offers a welcoming events venue blending rich heritage with scenic charm and community spirit.
Howsham Mill
8.2 km
Historic Georgian Gothic watermill restored as a renewable energy and environmental education centre on a scenic island in the River Derwent.
Danelaw Centre For Living History
9.0 km
Step back over a thousand years to explore authentic Viking and Roman life in a vibrant living history centre set within scenic rural Yorkshire.
Murton Park
9.0 km
Explore Yorkshire’s rich farming heritage and living history on 14 acres of interactive exhibits, animals, and family fun near York.
Foss Fairy Trail
9.6 km
Discover York’s enchanting Foss Fairy Trail, a magical riverside walk filled with whimsical fairy houses and community spirit, open year-round for free.
Kirkham Priory
9.7 km
Peaceful riverside ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory, with a magnificent gatehouse and a secret WWII past, set in the scenic Derwent Valley near York.
Rawcliffe Country Park
9.9 km
Explore York’s Rawcliffe Country Park, a 24/7 natural retreat with climbing, biking, trails, and community events for all ages.
Robin Hood Tower
10.0 km
Explore the enchanting Robin Hood Tower in York, a historical landmark steeped in folklore and rich architectural beauty.
City Wall Walk
10.0 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.
Monk Bar
10.0 km
Explore Monk Bar, a stunning historical landmark in York, where medieval architecture meets captivating tales of the city's rich past.
York
10.0 km
Discover York’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene in one of England’s most captivating cities.
York City Walls
10.1 km
Discover the historical grandeur of York City Walls, the longest intact medieval town walls in England, offering stunning views and rich stories.
Essential places to dine
Huckleberrys American Diner
4.4 km
Classic American diner fare with a friendly vibe, hearty burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of York.
The Stone Trough Inn
10.0 km
Historic Yorkshire inn with rustic charm, local cuisine, and stunning views overlooking Kirkham Abbey’s scenic countryside.
Little Italy
10.1 km
Authentic Italian dining and deli in York’s historic heart, serving traditional flavors since 1992 in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ambiente Tapas Goodramgate
10.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm Andalusian charm in York’s historic Goodramgate, with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse vegan options.
Arras
10.2 km
Innovative British cuisine with Mediterranean flair in a stylish, intimate setting tucked away in historic York.
Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen
10.2 km
Experience hearty Southern American flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic Minster Quarter.
Bab Tooma York
10.3 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Fat Hippo York
10.3 km
Savour bold, creative burgers and dirty fries in York’s historic Low Petergate, where casual meets flavour-packed indulgence.
Forest
10.3 km
Charming Georgian hotel in York’s historic heart with cozy rooms and acclaimed Forest Restaurant, perfect for exploring medieval streets and local culture.
Guy Fawkes Inn
10.3 km
Historic inn with cozy period rooms, lively pub, and unbeatable central location near York Minster.
Côte York
10.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian brasserie dining with classic French dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
La Vecchia Scuola
10.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
House Of The Trembling Madness // Stonegate (No table bookings)
10.3 km
A medieval ale house with a vast craft beer collection, quirky charm, and hearty Yorkshire fare in the heart of historic York.
Wildwood
10.3 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
10.3 km
Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Uniquely Local Experiences
8.2 km
Explore a unique gift shop in York offering local crafts, corporate gifts, and event planning services for a truly memorable experience.
Old York
9.5 km
Explore Old York Antique Shop: A vintage treasure trove in the heart of York, perfect for history lovers and collectors seeking unique finds.
Fairer World
10.0 km
Discover unique fair trade treasures and support global artisans at York’s dedicated ethical gift shop on historic Gillygate.
Monk Bar Model Shop
10.0 km
York’s historic model shop offering a vast selection of trains, kits, and collectibles with expert staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Village Shop
10.0 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.
Cleggs
10.1 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted homewares, and stylish accessories in the heart of York’s historic Goodramgate at Cleggs.
Snowhome
10.1 km
Discover Snowhome, York’s premier independent lifestyle store blending exquisite stationery, niche perfumes, and sustainable home accessories since 2001.
National Trust Gift Shop
10.1 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
10.2 km
Step into York’s Viking past at The Knutti Store, where authentic craftsmanship meets legendary tales in a charming trading post setting.
York Minster Shop
10.2 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and specialist books celebrating York Minster's medieval heritage.
SOCTOPUS
10.3 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Shared Earth
10.3 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Cat Gallery
10.3 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Rookscroft
10.3 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
10.3 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
10.1 km
Traditional British pub charm in York’s historic heart, serving seasonal classics and local ales with a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Eagle & Child
10.3 km
Historic 17th-century timber-framed pub in York offering craft ales, good food, and a charming beer garden in a quaint, lively setting.
Ye Olde Starre Inne
10.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub on York’s Stonegate, serving hearty British classics in a charming medieval setting.
Evil Eye
10.3 km
Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
10.4 km
A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
Vudu Lounge
10.4 km
York’s eclectic after-hours lounge blending quality cocktails with a lively, quirky nightlife vibe until the early morning.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
10.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Victor J's
10.4 km
Eclectic art-inspired bar and restaurant in York’s heart, offering cozy seating, creative vibes, and lively weekend nights.
Pivní York
10.4 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.
The Punch Bowl
10.4 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
10.4 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Hop York
10.5 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
10.5 km
York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Golden Fleece York
10.5 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
10.5 km
A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
10.5 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
10.6 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Flares - York
10.7 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Kuda
10.7 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Club Salvation
10.8 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
10.8 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
10.9 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
10.9 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
43.2 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
43.8 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.
Big Fellas Nightclub
43.9 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
44.0 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
44.0 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
44.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
44.2 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
- Nature Escape
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Nature Reserve
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
