Attractions and Places To See around Gateforth - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gateforth include a mix of natural reserves, historical sites, and outdoor trails. The region offers diverse landscapes, from wetlands to historic waterways, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities. Gateforth is situated in an area with a rich industrial past, now transformed into spaces for wildlife and recreation. Visitors can explore these sites, which cater to different interests, including those seeking family friendly outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Gateforth
- The most popular attractions is Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, a wetland nature reserve that is a former coal mining site transformed into a haven for wildlife. It is managed by the RSPB and is an important breeding and nesting site for water birds.
- Another must-see spot is Selby Canal, a 6-mile long historic canal and cycle path. Opened in 1778, it was used for transporting goods during the Industrial Revolution and now serves as a route for cyclists and pleasure boaters.
- Visitors also love Birkin Tea Room, a popular cafe known for its fast service and reasonable prices. It is a frequent stop for local cycling clubs and offers a warm welcome.
- Gateforth is known for its nature reserves, historical sites, and outdoor trails. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from wetlands to historic waterways and former airfields.
- The attractions around Gateforth are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 80 upvotes and 25 photos shared.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve
Highlight • Rest Area
Located between Leeds, Castleford and York, the area is managed by the RSPB.
rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fairburn-ings
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Ferrybridge Old Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
The Old Bridge you see here was rebuilt as a result of a competition advertised in a local paper, the Leeds Mercury, in 1797. The winner was John Carr, a well respected architect from York. A surveyor named Bernard Hartley was engaged to build the design which was completed in 1804. By April 1803 the cost of the work was around £24,864, with £142 being spent on 'ale' for the workmen in one year alone!
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Birkin Tea Room
Highlight • Cafe
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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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Tips from the Community
Lovely walk birds nesting at moment toilets and cafe sturdy paths disability scooter welcome small cafe and wild water swimming
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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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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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Selby Abbey has been an important place of worship for over 900 years. You can visit or attend services here. Look out for the world-famous stained-glass windows and medieval architecture. There is also a cafe and gift shop. 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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Fairburn Ings nature reserve is managed by the RSPB. It used to be a coal mine but has been transformed over the last 60 years to a haven for wildlife. It's an important breeding and nesting site for water birds. The star species that you may see are Bittern, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow and Spoonbill. The visitor centre has information, toilets and a cafe. It's open 10:00 - 17:00 in the summer and 10:00 - 16:00 in the winter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural attractions can I explore around Gateforth?
The region offers diverse natural landscapes, including wetlands and historic waterways. A prime example is Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, a former coal mining site transformed into a haven for wildlife, particularly water birds. You can also enjoy the scenic Selby Canal, which offers pleasant routes along its historic waterway.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Gateforth?
Yes, Gateforth has a rich industrial past reflected in several sites. You can visit the historic Selby Canal, opened in 1778 for transporting goods during the Industrial Revolution. Another notable site is Ferrybridge Old Bridge, a traffic-free, historic bridge rebuilt in 1804. Additionally, RAF Burn Airfield, a former Royal Air Force satellite station from 1942-1946, offers a glimpse into wartime history.
What family-friendly activities are available around Gateforth?
Several attractions cater to families. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve is a great spot for wildlife watching and gentle walks on sturdy paths. The historic Ferrybridge Old Bridge provides a safe, traffic-free route for walks. For a break, Birkin Tea Room is a popular and welcoming cafe for all ages.
Are there accessible walks or attractions for wheelchair users near Gateforth?
Yes, Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve is wheelchair accessible, featuring sturdy paths and welcoming disability scooters. Its visitor centre also provides facilities and information.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve?
Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve is an important breeding and nesting site for water birds. You may spot star species such as Bittern, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, Tree Sparrow, and Spoonbill, among many others.
Where can I find easy hiking trails around Gateforth?
You can find several easy hiking trails in the area. For example, there's the 'Bluebell Meadow – Woodland Clearing loop from Selby' (3.1 km) or the 'Picnic Table – RAF Burn Airfield loop from Brayton' (5.4 km). Explore more options on the Easy hikes around Gateforth guide.
Are there cycling routes available near Gateforth's attractions?
Yes, the Selby Canal offers a 6-mile long cycle path, popular with cyclists. You can also find various road cycling routes, such as the 'Birkin Tea Room loop from Brayton' (28.3 km). For more options, check the Road Cycling Routes around Gateforth guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Gateforth?
Visitors frequently praise the transformation of former industrial sites into natural havens, like Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve, for its wildlife and walking opportunities. The friendly atmosphere and good value at places like Birkin Tea Room are also highly appreciated, especially by local cycling clubs.
Are there mountain biking trails in the Gateforth area?
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available. An example is the 'Cawood Bridge – Cawood Castle Gatehouse loop from Selby' (32.4 km), which is rated as easy. You can discover more trails on the MTB Trails around Gateforth guide.
Can I find cafes or pubs near the walking routes?
Yes, Birkin Tea Room is a popular cafe known for its fast service and reasonable prices, often frequented by cyclists and walkers. It's a great spot to refuel during your outdoor activities.
What is the significance of the Selby Canal?
The Selby Canal is a 6-mile long historic waterway opened in 1778. It played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution for transporting goods, particularly to nearby York. Today, it serves as a scenic route for cyclists and pleasure boaters, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
What is the best way to cross the River Aire near Ferrybridge?
For cyclists and walkers, the Ferrybridge Old Bridge provides a quieter, traffic-free route across the River Aire, avoiding the busier bypass dual carriageway. It's a historic and pleasant alternative.
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