Best attractions and places to see around Cottam, located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, offer a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage. This region is characterized by its expansive countryside, including the Yorkshire Wolds, and features significant historical landmarks. Visitors can explore ancient villages, grand country houses, and serene waterways. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its diverse natural features.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Fascinating diversion during a long trek and I agree with Michael Tilley, walking along the Yorkshire Wolds Way, skirting around Deep Dale and then descending in to Wharram Percy is a cracking walk. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history/ Re. the above comment: the Yorkshire Wolds Way Partnership does think about the walkers. Hence their accessibility action plan and associated information available on several websites.
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Fascinating diversion during a long trek. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history/
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Fascinating diversion during a long trek. Plenty of information boards to read to learn about the site. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wharram-percy-deserted-medieval-village/history/
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Lovely stop by the side of the river - often swans swimming by & egrets in the trees.
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The largest and one of the best-known of Britain's 3,000 deserted medieval villages.
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Chalk streams are pristine waterways brimming with biodiversity and distinctive ecology. They flow through chalk bedrock, resulting in exceptionally clear waters and a rich array of aquatic flora and fauna. They provide habitat for a diverse range of species, including trout, grayling, and freshwater invertebrates. However, chalk streams face mounting threats from pollution, abstraction, and habitat degradation, and we need a concerted conservation effort to safeguard these invaluable natural treasures.
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Picturesque and tranquil only issue I have is walking from thixendale not a single bench or even a log to sit on, not even in the church yard, the world's way needs to think about the walkers.
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I think the site is best approached from the south along the side of Deep Dale. Check out the patterns of the housing on the hill facing the church. The information boards are very useful.
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The region is rich in history. You can visit Wharram Percy β Deserted Medieval Village, one of Britain's best-preserved deserted medieval villages, where you can see the outlines of lost houses and St Martinβs Church. Another significant historical site is Sledmere House, a regal Grade I listed Georgian country house with beautiful gardens and parkland.
Absolutely. The East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside offers expansive natural landscapes with open farmland, nature reserves, and ancient woodlands. You can also explore the tranquil River Hull at Skerne Road, known for its clear chalk stream waters and diverse aquatic life, or the historic Driffield Canal, an 11-mile waterway perfect for leisurely strolls.
The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Countryside Dirt Path β View of the Yorkshire Wolds loop' or the 'Garton Bottom β Cottam Old Ruined Church loop'. For cyclists, there are routes like the 'Driffield Navigation Canal β Driffield Canal loop'. Explore more options on the hiking guide or the cycling guide for Cottam.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Sledmere House offers gardens and a farm park, making it a great day out. The East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside, River Hull at Skerne Road, and Driffield Canal all provide pleasant, accessible environments for walks and exploration with children.
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth of sites like Wharram Percy, noting the fascinating insights into medieval life. The beauty of the natural landscapes, especially the peacefulness of the East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside and the scenic waterways like the Driffield Canal, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the well-maintained gardens and facilities at Sledmere House.
Yes, Sledmere House features a cafe and farm shop that are open most days, offering delicious homemade cakes and other refreshments. For other attractions, you'll find various pubs and cafes in nearby villages within the East Riding of Yorkshire.
The East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside itself offers many scenic viewpoints across its open farmland and rolling hills. At Wharram Percy, approaching from the south along Deep Dale provides a great perspective of the village's layout. The Driffield Canal also has picturesque spots with seating to enjoy the waterway.
The East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside is best explored through its network of quiet country lanes, which are perfect for cycling, and numerous walking trails. These allow you to discover its historic buildings, nature reserves, and open farmland at your own pace.
Parking is generally available at major attractions. For instance, Sledmere House has dedicated parking facilities. For more remote sites like Wharram Percy, parking might be in designated areas a short walk from the site.
In natural areas like the East Riding of Yorkshire Countryside and along the River Hull, you can spot various bird species, including swans and egrets. The chalk streams of the River Hull are particularly rich in aquatic flora and fauna, including trout and freshwater invertebrates.
Yes, the Driffield Canal is part of an 11-mile waterway that offers pleasant walking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Driffield Navigation Canal β Driffield Canal loop from Garton on the Wolds' which is a moderate hike, or the 'Driffield Navigation Canal β River Hull at Skerne Road loop from Driffield' for an easy cycling tour. More details are available in the hiking guide and cycling guide.
Wharram Percy is renowned as one of Britain's most famous and best-preserved deserted medieval villages. It was continuously inhabited for six centuries before being abandoned after 1500. Today, visitors can explore the visible outlines of lost houses and the crumbling remains of St Martinβs Church, offering a unique glimpse into medieval rural life.


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