Attractions and Places To See around Barton-Le-Street - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Barton-Le-Street offer a blend of historical significance and natural beauty within the Ryedale valley. This North Yorkshire village is noted for its historic St. Michael's Church and its location on the southern slope of the fertile Ryedale valley. The area provides access to a range of historical sites, architectural landmarks, and natural features, including the nearby Barton Heights and Coneysthorpe Banks Wood. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural sites and natural landscapes in…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
New River Bridge, Castle Howard Estate
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Kirkham Priory Ruins
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Temple of the Four Winds
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Castle Howard Obelisk
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Howsham Mill and Weir
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The mill fell into …
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Howsham Mill, attributed to John Carr of York, is a well-preserved example of an 18th-century watermill. The mill uses both a restored waterwheel and Archimedes screw to generate electricity, providing a sustainable energy solution for the local area, and the site is part of a larger effort to promote environmental awareness and education, showcasing how renewable energy can be implemented in a historical setting.
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The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.
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If you are following the footpaths to the east of the main Castle Howard grounds, you won't be able to get close to this folly (railings prevent access as it is within the Castle Howard grounds), but you will still have great views of it.
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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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Grassy track over the New River, nice views of the estate and various follies from the bridge. Per historicengland.org: "c1740. By Daniel Garrett for Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. Sandstone ashlar. Banded rustication to cutwaters dividing 3 stepped segmental arches each with rusticated voussoirs and a mask keystone to central arch. Niches in tooled architraves with pulvinated friezes and consoles supporting pediments flank the main arch. Brackets support cornice surmounted by low parapet with central balustrade and coping. Ramped approaches have balustrading, rusticated piers to centre, and square-section end piers."
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A nice 4.6 mile stroll with a gentle incline
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The current Howsham Mill is on the site of an earlier mill built in 1755 that milled flour for the Howsham Estate for almost 200 years. The mill fell into ruins in the mid 1900s before being picked up by the Renewable Heritage Trust and restored to all its glory in 2006. Today, the mill is an events space, environmental education centre and produces energy in the form of hydroelectricity.
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The Temple of the Four Winds was designed by Vanbrugh, although he didn't get to finish it before he died (1726). It was first used as a place to get refreshments and to read. There are gorgeous views of the hills from here as well!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Barton-le-Street?
Barton-le-Street is home to the historically significant St. Michael's Church, renowned for its stunning Norman architecture and intricate carvings. The village also features its traditional two greens and the 17th-century Manor House with its stone dovecote.
Are there any grand estates or castles to visit near Barton-le-Street?
Yes, the magnificent Castle Howard is a short distance away. This stately home, built in 1699, is considered one of Europe's great palaces, featuring dramatic Baroque architecture, extensive gardens, and the Temple of the Four Winds, which offers superb views.
What natural features can I enjoy around Barton-le-Street?
The village is nestled on the southern slope of the fertile Ryedale valley. You can explore Barton Heights, crowned by Coneysthorpe Banks Wood, which offers natural beauty and entrenchments on its northern border.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Absolutely. Castle Howard is very family-friendly, with its extensive gardens and the Skelf Island Adventure Playground. The Temple of the Four Winds is also noted as family-friendly, offering space to explore.
Where can I find ancient ruins or historical sites near Barton-le-Street?
You can visit the impressive Kirkham Priory Ruins, an Augustinian priory founded in 1120, maintained by English Heritage. Additionally, the stunning medieval ruins of Byland Abbey are accessible from the region.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes around Barton-le-Street, with routes like 'Freer's Banks and Waite Wood – Fryton Moor loop' or 'Thurtle Wood Forest Trail loop'. For more details, check the Easy hikes around Barton-Le-Street guide.
Are there cycling routes available around Barton-le-Street?
Yes, there are several cycling options. You can enjoy touring bicycle routes such as 'Castle Howard – Castle Howard Obelisk loop' or 'Great Lake (Castle Howard) – Castle Howard loop'. For road cycling, routes like 'Barugh Bridge – View of Slingsby Castle loop' are popular. Explore more in the Cycling around Barton-Le-Street guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Barton-Le-Street guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Barton-le-Street?
Visitors appreciate the striking architecture of structures like the New River Bridge, Castle Howard Estate, and the historical depth of sites like Kirkham Priory Ruins. The scenic views from places like the Temple of the Four Winds are also highly praised.
Are there any other historic churches or religious sites worth visiting nearby?
Beyond St. Michael's Church in Barton-le-Street, the region is rich in ecclesiastical history. You can find other historic churches such as Appleton-le-Street All Saints Church, Slingsby All Saints Church, and Amotherby St Helen's Church within a few miles.
Is there a place to enjoy tranquil walks and gardens?
Yes, the serene Malton Castle Gardens, located in nearby Malton, offer tranquil walks and scenic views within historic surroundings, providing a peaceful escape.
Can I see any interesting historical engineering or water features?
You can visit Howsham Mill and Weir. This site features an 18th-century mill, now restored, which functions as an events space, environmental education center, and produces hydroelectricity. It's an interesting blend of history and renewable energy.
What are some easy walking routes for beginners near Barton-le-Street?
For easy walks, consider routes like the 'Fryton Mosaic – View of Slingsby Castle loop from Slingsby' or the 'All Saints Church, Hovingham – Mowbray's Bakery loop from Slingsby'. These are generally shorter and less challenging. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Barton-Le-Street guide.
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