Attractions and Places To See around Gowdall - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gowdall include a mix of historical sites, waterways, and local amenities. The region features canals like the Selby Canal, offering routes for cycling and walking. Visitors can explore former airfields with historical significance and discover family-friendly activities. Gowdall provides diverse points of interest for those exploring the area.
Best attractions and places to see around Gowdall
- The most popular attractions is Selby Canal, a cycle way that was opened in 1778 for…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Birkin Tea Room
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Selby Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
RAF Burn Airfield
Highlight • Trail
Many of the buildings have now been dismantled, but the three runways remain intact and are used by the Burn Gliding Club.
Tip by
Low Lane Swing Bridge
Highlight • River
Tip by
Selby Canal
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Gowdall.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Spectacular abbey for such a small town. Interesting info board describing the 19th Century cholera epidemic and associated graveyard, much like the one just outside the walls opposite York Station.
1
0
Royal Air Force Burn or more simply RAF Burn is a former Royal Air Force satellite station located 5 miles (8 km) south of Selby and 0.5 miles (0.8 km) east of Burn in North Yorkshire, England which opened in 1942 before closing in 1946. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/RAF_Burn
2
0
The Trans Pennine Trail passes through this former airfield. Many information points explain the history of this historic place.
2
0
Open for all visitors (including sightseeing) from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily and the Gift and Coffee Shop is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm (1.30 to 3.00pm on Sundays). Visiting may be restricted during service times. https://www.selbyabbey.org.uk/
2
1
Low Lane Swing Bridge is a minor waterways place on the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation (New Junction Canal) between Sykehouse Lift Bridge (Sykehouse village is about a mile to the east.) (3 miles and 5½ furlongs and 1 lock to the northeast) and Bramwith Junction (Junction of Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation main line with New Junction Canal) (6¾ furlongs to the southwest). https://canalplan.uk/place/emmj
1
0
A former Royal Air Force satellite station that opened in 1942, to close in 1946. Many of the buildings have now been dismantled, but the three runways remain intact and are used by the Burn Gliding Club.
2
0
Nice cycle path along the Selby Canal.
0
1
Selby Abbey has been an important place of worship for over 900 years. You can visit or attend services here. Look out for the world-famous stained-glass windows and medieval architecture. There is also a cafe and gift shop. The abbey is open to public visiting daily from 10:00 - 16:00. Entry is free but they ask for any donations as it's expensive to look after.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Gowdall?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Birkin Tea Room is a popular stop with a welcoming atmosphere. Families might also enjoy visiting Carlton Towers, a historic estate that hosts events, or observing the unique Low Lane Swing Bridge on the New Junction Canal.
What historical sites can I visit near Gowdall?
The area offers interesting historical sites. Explore Carlton Towers, a Grade I listed Victorian Gothic building set in 250 acres. You can also visit RAF Burn Airfield, a former Royal Air Force satellite station from WWII, where the runways are now used by a gliding club and the Trans Pennine Trail passes through. The Selby Canal itself has historical significance, opened in 1778 for transporting goods.
What are some good places for walks and cycling near Gowdall?
For walks and cycling, the Selby Canal offers a dedicated cycle path, though it can be a bit bumpy in places. The former RAF Burn Airfield also has trails, with the Trans Pennine Trail passing through. For more detailed routes, you can explore the Cycling around Gowdall or Running Trails around Gowdall guides.
Are there cafes or places to eat popular with outdoor enthusiasts?
Yes, Birkin Tea Room is highly popular with cyclists, known for its fast service, reasonable prices, and welcoming atmosphere. It's a great spot to refuel during a ride or walk.
What kind of natural features can I explore around Gowdall?
The region is characterized by its waterways. The Selby Canal is a prominent feature, offering scenic paths alongside the water. You can also see the Low Lane Swing Bridge on the New Junction Canal, which is part of the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Gowdall?
Visitors appreciate the mix of historical sites, tranquil waterways, and welcoming local amenities. The Selby Canal is enjoyed for its cycling opportunities, while Birkin Tea Room receives praise for its friendly service and value. The historical significance of places like RAF Burn Airfield and the grandeur of Carlton Towers are also highly valued.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the Gowdall area?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the Low Lane Swing Bridge offers an interesting glimpse into the region's canal infrastructure, where you can sometimes see the bridge open for passing watercraft. The 'Walled Garden Vineyard' at Carlton Towers also provides a unique experience for enjoying wine in a historic setting.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Gowdall?
The Selby Canal offers an easy cycle path. For more options, komoot provides several cycling guides, including routes like the 'Selby Canal – Selby Canal Towpath loop from Snaith' and 'Selby Canal – RAF Burn Airfield loop from Snaith'. You can find more details in the Cycling around Gowdall guide.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Gowdall?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the wider area. Routes such as 'Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby' and 'Carlton Towers – St Laurence Church, Snaith loop from Whitley Bridge' are available. Explore the MTB Trails around Gowdall guide for more information on difficulty and distances.
Are there running trails available near Gowdall?
Yes, there are several running trails. Examples include the 'Snaith Priory Church – Shapla Indian Restaurant loop from Snaith' and 'Wesleyan Chapel – Snaith Priory Church loop from Snaith', both offering moderate difficulty. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Running Trails around Gowdall guide.
Is there parking available for attractions and walks?
While specific parking details for every attraction are not provided, many popular walking and cycling routes, especially along canals and former airfields like RAF Burn Airfield, typically have designated parking areas nearby or in adjacent villages. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to visit Gowdall's attractions?
The best time to visit Gowdall's attractions, particularly for outdoor activities like cycling and walking along the Selby Canal or exploring RAF Burn Airfield, is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). The weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor exploration. Historical sites like Carlton Towers may have specific event schedules that vary by season.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
