Best attractions and places to see around Carlton include historical sites, waterways, and rural landscapes. This region offers a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration. Visitors can discover former airfields, historic canals, and significant religious buildings. The area provides opportunities for cycling, walking, and exploring local history.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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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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Selby Canal is a very pleasant walk. From Selby to Burton Hall Bridge is around 2.5 miles each way.
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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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The Trans Pennine Trail runs along the canal between Selby and Snaith.
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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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Nice cycle path along the Selby Canal.
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For families, Birkin Tea Room is a popular stop, especially for cyclists, offering fast service and a warm welcome. The historic Howden Minster Ruins are free to enter and offer a glimpse into 14th-century architecture. Additionally, Carlton Towers, a Grade I listed Victorian Gothic building, is also noted as family-friendly and hosts various events.
Carlton is rich in history. You can explore the impressive 14th-century Howden Minster Ruins, which are looked after by English Heritage and free to enter. The former RAF Burn Airfield, operational during WWII, still has its runways intact and is now used by a gliding club, with information points explaining its past. Also, visit Carlton Towers, a historic Victorian Gothic building set in 250 acres of farmland.
Yes, the Selby Canal offers a 6-mile long cycle path, popular with pleasure boaters and cyclists, though it can be a bit bumpy in places. The RAF Burn Airfield also has a trail section of the Trans Pennine Trail passing through it. For more dedicated cycling, you can find various road cycling routes and MTB trails around Carlton.
The main natural feature highlighted is the Selby Canal, which was originally used for transporting goods and is now a scenic waterway enjoyed by pleasure boaters and those using its cycle path. The surrounding area offers rural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor exploration along waterways and former airfields.
Visitors particularly appreciate the friendly atmosphere and good service at places like Birkin Tea Room, which is a popular stop for local cycling clubs. The historical significance and free entry of sites like Howden Minster Ruins are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared 6 photos and given 72 upvotes to the attractions around Carlton, indicating a positive experience.
Yes, Birkin Tea Room is a highly recommended cafe, especially popular with cyclists, known for its fast service, reasonable prices, and warm welcome. It's a great spot for a break while exploring the area.
Yes, there are several running trails available. For example, you can find routes like the 'Drax Circular Route' or trails connecting to 'Carlton Towers'. You can explore various running trails around Carlton, with options ranging in distance and difficulty.
The terrain varies. Along the Selby Canal, the cycle path can be a bit 'bumpy-lumpy' in places, especially for road bikes with skinny tires, and can get muddy when wet. The former RAF Burn Airfield also has a rough surface in areas. Generally, the region offers a mix of paved paths and rural trails.
Beyond the main highlights, the RAF Burn Airfield offers a unique historical experience, allowing visitors to cycle or walk through a former WWII airbase where gliders now operate. It provides a different perspective on the region's past and present use of the land.
Carlton Towers, a Grade I listed Victorian Gothic building, is primarily used for weddings and events. It also offers accommodation and features a 'Walled Garden Vineyard' where visitors can enjoy wine. For specific event schedules, it's best to check their official website directly.
While specific parking details for each attraction are not provided, many rural and historical sites in the UK typically have designated parking areas or nearby street parking. For popular spots like Birkin Tea Room, which caters to cyclists, parking for vehicles is usually available nearby.
Many outdoor areas and trails, such as those along the Selby Canal and through the RAF Burn Airfield, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife or livestock, and to check specific rules for indoor attractions or private estates like Carlton Towers.


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