Attractions and Places To See around Drax - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Drax, a village in North Yorkshire, include a blend of industrial heritage, natural beauty, and historical sites. The area is primarily known for the Drax Power Station, a significant landmark in the UK's energy sector. Beyond this, visitors can explore serene nature reserves, historical ruins, and waterways. The surrounding region offers diverse points of interest for those looking to explore the North Yorkshire landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Drax
- The most popular attractions is Selby Canal, a cycle way that was opened in 1778 to transport goods. This 6-mile-long canal is now popular for pleasure boating and offers a path for cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Howden Minster Ruins, a religious building and historical site. Visitors can explore the impressive arch of the Minster's ruined chancel and St Peter's Church, which is looked after by English Heritage.
- Visitors also love Carlton Towers, a Grade I listed Victorian Gothic building. This historic house stands in 250 acres of farmland and is used for events, offering accommodation and a 'Walled Garden Vineyard'.
- Drax is known for its industrial landmarks, historical sites, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions, from former airfields to nature reserves and stately homes, providing diverse options to see and explore.
- The attractions around Drax are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Selby Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
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.
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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.
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Howden Minster Ruins
Highlight • Religious Site
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Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
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Carlton Towers
Highlight • Castle
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Tips from the Community
This is a woodland and wetland reserve with 600m of mainly grass footpaths which create a circular route and can be very muddy during winter. There are lots of tree roots and uneven surfaces across the reserve. Footpaths tend to be narrow. There is one gate onto the reserve at the footpath entrance which is closed from April to July to protect breeding birds.
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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.
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Located, somewhat hidden, on the Trans Pennine Trail
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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
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The Trans Pennine Trail passes through this former airfield. Many information points explain the history of this historic place.
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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/
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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.
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Saltmarshe Delph is a small nature reserve with a diverse mix of wetland habitats. For a small site There's a wealth of wildlife to be discovered, including birds such as marsh harriers and water rails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural attractions to explore near Drax?
You can immerse yourself in nature at the Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve, known for its diverse wetland habitats and opportunities for birdwatching, including marsh harriers and water rails. Another excellent option is the Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve, which offers peaceful walks and diverse wildlife spotting, including deer and kingfishers.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks worth visiting around Drax?
Yes, the area boasts several historical sites. Explore the impressive arch of the ruined chancel at Howden Minster Ruins, a significant religious building. You can also visit RAF Burn Airfield, a former World War II satellite station, where the runways are still used by a gliding club. Additionally, Carlton Towers, a Grade I listed Victorian Gothic building, offers a glimpse into historic grandeur.
Can I take a tour of Drax Power Station?
Yes, Drax Power Station, a major landmark in the UK's energy sector, offers free tours. These tours provide insights into its history, electricity generation processes, and its transition to sustainable biomass. You can learn more about its massive cooling towers and biomass domes, which are impressive in scale. For tour bookings and details, it's best to check their official website directly.
What outdoor activities are available near Drax, such as hiking or cycling?
The region around Drax offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the historic Selby Canal, which was originally opened in 1778 for transporting goods. For hiking, explore easy trails like the 'Little Black Dog Brewery loop from Carlton' or 'Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Wetland Area loop from Hemingbrough'. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Hiking around Drax guide, and cycling routes in the MTB Trails around Drax guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Drax area?
Absolutely. The Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve is ideal for families, offering easy walking routes, wildlife spotting, classroom facilities, and picnic areas. Howden Minster Ruins is also considered family-friendly, allowing exploration of its historical architecture. Additionally, the Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve provides a gentle circular route suitable for families, though it can be muddy in winter.
What is the best time to visit the Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve?
The Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve is a great place to visit year-round. However, for optimal wildlife spotting and pleasant walking conditions, spring and summer are particularly rewarding. The reserve is home to over 100 species of wildlife, including rare varieties, making it a vibrant destination during warmer months.
Are there any dog-friendly walking trails near Drax?
Many of the natural areas around Drax are suitable for dog walking. The Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve offers marked walking routes that are generally dog-friendly. Similarly, the towpath along the Selby Canal is a popular choice for walks with dogs, though some sections can be muddy after rain.
Where can I find local dining options in Drax?
For local dining, The Huntsman pub and restaurant in Drax village offers a delightful experience with convenient parking. It's a good option for a meal after exploring the area's attractions.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' near Drax?
Beyond the major landmarks, consider visiting Wressle Castle, a historic ruin approximately 4.8 miles from Drax. It offers a unique historical experience with informative boards in scenic surroundings. The Yorkshire Waterways Museum in Goole also provides interesting insights into the region's waterways history.
Is there public transport available to reach attractions around Drax?
While Drax is a small village, public transport options might be limited. It's generally recommended to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to nearby towns like Selby or Goole, from which you might find connections closer to specific attractions. However, for maximum flexibility, traveling by car is often the most convenient way to explore the diverse sites around Drax.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the nature reserves near Drax?
At the Drax Skylark Centre and Nature Reserve, you might spot diverse wildlife such as deer, foxes, and kingfishers. The reserve is known for hosting over 100 species, including some rare and endangered varieties. At Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve, you can observe various wetland birds, including marsh harriers and water rails.
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