Best attractions and places to see around Long Drax include a variety of historical sites, natural reserves, and waterways. This region in the Vale of York offers a mix of landscapes, from former airfields to canals. Visitors can explore more than 20 distinct places of interest. The area provides opportunities to discover local history and natural habitats.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
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
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Long Drax.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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
Selby Canal is a very pleasant walk. From Selby to Burton Hall Bridge is around 2.5 miles each way.
2
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
The Trans Pennine Trail runs along the canal between Selby and Snaith.
3
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
The region offers several historical sites. You can explore the beautifully decorated 14th-century Howden Minster Ruins, which are free to enter. Another significant site is the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common, where remnants of a former heavy bomber operational conversion unit from WWII are still visible. Additionally, RAF Burn Airfield, a former Royal Air Force satellite station, has remaining runways now used by a gliding club, with information points detailing its history.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Both the Howden Minster Ruins and the RAF Riccall Bomber Memorial at Skipwith Common are considered family-friendly. The Selby Canal also offers a cycle path that can be enjoyed by families, though some sections might be bumpy.
For wildlife spotting, head to Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve. This small reserve features diverse wetland habitats where you can discover a wealth of wildlife, including birds like marsh harriers and water rails. Note that a gate onto the reserve is closed from April to July to protect breeding birds.
The Long Drax area is great for outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, such as the 'Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Barmby Barrage loop' or 'Newhay Lakes loop'. For cycling, routes like 'Cawood Bridge – Selby Garden Centre Café loop' are popular. There are also running trails, including the 'Kennel Plantation loop'. You can find more details and routes in the easy hikes, cycling, and running trails guides for Long Drax.
Yes, there are several easy walks available. You can find routes like the 'Swans at Barkby Thorpe – Wetland Area loop from Hemingbrough' or the 'Barmby Barrage – River Ouse loop from Long Drax'. These are generally flat and suitable for beginners. For more options, refer to the easy hikes around Long Drax guide.
The best time to visit Long Drax attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. For walking and cycling, spring and summer offer pleasant weather. However, if visiting Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve, be aware that footpaths can be very muddy during winter, and a gate is closed from April to July to protect breeding birds.
Yes, the Selby Canal features a dedicated cycle path along its 6-mile length. While it's a pleasant ride, be aware that some sections can be a bit bumpy and muddy, especially after rain, so a road bike with skinny tyres might find it challenging in places.
While specific pubs aren't detailed for every attraction, the town of Howden, home to the Howden Minster Ruins, is known for having a great cafe scene, making it a good stop for refreshments.
At Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve, the 600m of footpaths are mainly grass and can be very muddy during winter. The terrain also features lots of tree roots and uneven surfaces, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
When visiting RAF Burn Airfield, be mindful that the former runways are now used by the Burn Gliding Club, so watch out for gliders. The surface can be rough in places, as it's an old airfield. The Trans Pennine Trail passes through, with information points explaining its history.
Yes, for example, Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve offers a circular route of approximately 600m through its woodland and wetland habitats. Many of the easy hikes listed in the easy hikes around Long Drax guide are also circular loops.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. The historical significance of sites like Howden Minster Ruins and the RAF memorials is highly valued. The peaceful cycling along Selby Canal and the opportunity for wildlife observation at Saltmarshe Delph Nature Reserve are also frequently highlighted.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: