Attractions and Places To See around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby, a civil parish in North Yorkshire, encompass a range of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area is characterized by its rural setting, offering insights into traditional English village life and scenic landscapes. It provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, with various points of interest to explore. Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby contains five scheduled ancient monuments, all of which are round barrows.
Best attractions and places to see around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby
- The most popular attraction is Byland Abbey Ruins, a historical site that was once a 12th-century Cistercian abbey. These extensive ruins are maintained by English Heritage and are free to enter during daylight hours.
- Another must-see spot is Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass, a forest offering scenic views. Visitors can experience a descent into the village of Wass, with woodlands of Wass Moor and Pry Rigg Plantation visible to the east.
- Visitors also love Castle Howard, a magnificent stately home built in 1699. This Baroque building has been home to the Howard family for over 300 years and features extensive gardens and parkland.
- Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby is known for its historical sites, natural features, and outdoor activity opportunities. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to grand estates and tranquil woodlands.
- The attractions around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby are appreciated by the komoot community, with 147 upvotes and 59 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Byland Abbey Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
The Abbey is maintained by English Heritage and completely free to enter as long as it's daylight.
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Castle Howard Obelisk
Highlight • Monument
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City of Troy Maze
Highlight • Historical Site
There is a plaque with further information here as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.
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Mount Snever Observatory
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass
Highlight (Segment) • Forest
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Tips from the Community
Byland Abbey is a ruined 12th-century monastery located in the North York Moors National Park in North Yorkshire, England, managed today by English Heritage. Once a powerhouse of the Cistercian order, it stands as one of the finest examples of early Gothic architecture in the country and famously inspired the design of the iconic Rose Window at York Minster.
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The climb up is steep and very muddy, good footwear required.
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One of only a few such mazes left in the country and the only one in Yorkshire.
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Abbey Bank Wood is the wood that time forgot. If you are descending into Wass from the Snever Observatory, but are not following the public footpath per the OS map, and instead following the numerous tracks to the south of Blind Side Gill, then be aware that these are not standard plantation tracks, they are woodland rabbit tracks that look as though they have been undisturbed for quite a long time. No sounds of any human activity anywhere, lots of Muntjac deer and birdsong, very peaceful and feels a million miles away from civilisation, when you are actually only a mile or so from Wass.
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The permissive path from Oldstead towards the southwest is well signposted, but is very steep at 22%. Might be OK if you are fresh, but have to admit it is a real struggle after 15 miles hard hiking in 21 degree sunshine! Alternative is to use trekking poles, or approach from the woods to the east and then descend the woodland track to Oldstead, which would have been easier.
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Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).
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Worth stopping on your ride here - this is a gem! "City of Troy" here is the only surviving instance (in North Yorkshire) of an ancient game. A similar name is given to these kinds of maze games in Scandinavia (Trojeborg = Troy Town), which shows early association between these parts of the world. There is a plaque with further information here as well as a bench to rest on to enjoy this place. The views are also quite lovely, particularly down the Bonnygate Lane road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the extensive ruins of Byland Abbey Ruins, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey that influenced church architecture throughout the north. Another significant site is Castle Howard, a magnificent Baroque stately home built in 1699. Additionally, explore Mount Snever Observatory, erected in 1838, and the unique City of Troy Maze, an ancient game with lovely views. Brandsby-cum-Stearsby also features several Grade II* listed buildings like Brandsby Hall, All Saints' Church, and The Old Rectory, along with five scheduled ancient round barrows.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Castle Howard offers extensive gardens and parkland to explore, and Byland Abbey Ruins provide a hands-on history lesson and a beautiful picnic spot. The City of Troy Maze is a unique ancient game that can be an interesting stop for all ages. For a countryside experience, Peel Park Camping in Brandsby offers opportunities to interact with farm animals.
What natural features and scenic spots can I find around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
The area boasts beautiful natural landscapes. Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass offers scenic views, especially on the descent into Wass village, with woodlands like Wass Moor and Pry Rigg Plantation visible. The rural setting provides insights into traditional English village life and is surrounded by picturesque scenery, ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
What outdoor activities are available near Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For specific trails, explore the MTB Trails around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby, Easy hikes around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby, and Running Trails around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby guides for detailed routes and difficulty levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for a leisurely walk?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. You can find routes like the Higher Fish Pond and Lower Fish Pond loop from Yearsley Woods Car Park, or the Yearsley Moor – Lower Fish Pond loop from Yearsley. These are generally easy and offer a pleasant way to experience the local scenery. For more options, check the Easy hikes around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and natural beauty. The free entry and extensive ruins of Byland Abbey Ruins are often highlighted as a breathtaking experience and a great picnic spot. The magnificent architecture and gardens of Castle Howard also receive high praise. Many enjoy the peaceful, scenic views and the feeling of being away from civilization in places like Abbey Bank Wood, often spotting wildlife.
Is there a fee to enter Byland Abbey Ruins?
No, Byland Abbey Ruins are maintained by English Heritage and are completely free to enter during daylight hours. There is also an Abbey tearoom open from March to November for refreshments.
Can I visit Castle Howard, and what are its opening hours?
Castle Howard is a magnificent stately home with extensive gardens and parkland. The gardens are typically open from 10 am to 5 pm. The house itself is usually open from March until November. For the most current information on opening times and ticket prices, it's best to check their official website.
Where can I find a unique viewpoint in the area?
For a unique viewpoint, consider visiting Mount Snever Observatory, also known as Oldstead Tower. Erected in 1838, it offers historical interest and views, though the path leading to it can be quite steep. Another spot with lovely views, particularly down Bonnygate Lane road, is the City of Troy Maze.
Are there any ancient monuments or barrows in Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
Yes, Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby is home to five scheduled ancient monuments, all of which are round barrows. These historical burial mounds are located in various spots, including south of Barhouse Farm, northeast of Hagg Farm, east of Warren House, south of Warren House, and west of Quarry House, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
What is the significance of the City of Troy Maze?
The City of Troy Maze is the only surviving instance in North Yorkshire of an ancient game. Similar maze games, known as Trojeborg or Troy Town, are found in Scandinavia, indicating early cultural associations. There's a plaque at the site providing further information, and it's a great spot to rest and enjoy the views.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby?
Absolutely. The area offers various mountain biking trails for different skill levels. You can find routes like the Coneysthorpe loop in the Howardian Hills or the Gallow Hill Descent. For a comprehensive list of trails, including distances and difficulty grades, refer to the MTB Trails around Brandsby-Cum-Stearsby guide.
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