Find full directions for this walk in our Naburn – York River Ouse Walk Guide available to download or print here.

The path is 4.6 miles, flat and mostly traffic free, through beautiful countryside along the River Ouse. There are 3 stiles (by-passable). Cycles are prohibited from a section of the river path near the city. Refreshments are available along the walk during Summer. Visitors who don’t regularly walk distances might consider returning by bus from York Piccadilly.

Turn left out of the caravan park to Naburn Village. The route crosses the River Ouse over Naburn bridge (Sustrans Route 65) to Bishopthorpe, reaching the city at Skeldergate.

Old Naburn station is to the north of the village, just under a mile from Naburn Lock Caravan Park. There is a roadside footpath between the village and the station. Join the cycle/footpath at the right hand, far side of the railway bridge (signposted), then turn right by the Naburn Station café towards York.

After a few hundred yards, you’ll cross the River Ouse over Naburn Bridge. It’s worth a moment to stop and learn out about this impressive swing bridge, watch the boats and enjoy views over York Marina.

The path continues into countryside toward Acaster. At this junction, take the right-hand turn which immediately ‘doubles back’ to the River Ouse. On reaching the river, turn left and walk across three meadows. If the path is muddy after heavy rains, look out for the gravelled lane to your right. This becomes ‘Ferry Lane’.

Ferry Lane leads to York Marine Services’ moorings and the Riverside Rest Café at Bishopthorpe. Continue on the river path towards the York Bishops Palace ahead. The path turns left alongside the facade of St Andrews Church and into Bishopthorpe along Chantry Lane.

Turn right out of Chantry Lane, walking along Bishopthorpe Road footpath for 300yds, passing the entrance to Bishopthorpe Palace and grounds. The footpath leading back to the river path is easily missed. It is in the hedge to your right just before York Crematorium. Having re-joined the river path, follow it through open countryside, under the A64 ring-road, then around a large meander in the river.

The path ends at a stile (by-passable) and joins the York Cycle Trail (Sustrans 65). In a few moments, you’ll arrive at York’s Millenium Bridge across the River Ouse. It’s a popular picnic spot. Now, there’s just another half-mile walk along the riverside road to York city centre at Skeldergate.

You’ve arrived in York! Once you’ve passed under the historic Skeldergate Bridge, cross over to Tower Gardens, York Castle (Clifford’s Tower), Piccadilly Bus Stop and Kingstaith. Or turn left and follow the York City Walls toward Monksgate and York Railway Station.

View or Print our Guide to Naburn-York River Ouse Walk here.

or complete our Enquiry Form