Best attractions and places to see around Kelfield include its rural setting on the northern bank of the River Ouse in North Yorkshire. The village offers a tranquil experience with historical landmarks and access to scenic trails. Kelfield's location provides opportunities to explore both local points of interest and nearby larger urban centers. The area is characterized by its traditional English village life and agricultural landscape.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
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You could read Eric Gee's 1983 "Bishopthorpe Palace: An Architectural History", but Eric never had the tinterweb in 1983. We do >>> https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1166705?section=official-list-entry, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bishopthorpe_Palace
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Nice traffic free alternative. Nice also to escape thebheat
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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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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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Nice views from the bridge with quirky fisherman installation sat on top.
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Bishopthorpe Palace is situated along the beautiful River Ouse south of the city centre of York. It's the official home of the Archbishop of York, and has been for all previous Archbishop's of York since 1241. Whilst the inside of the palace is only open for pre-arranged tours with quite a long waiting list, you can still admire the palace and its beautiful gatehouse from the footpath outside.
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The track is now resurfaced and smooth
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Kelfield itself features the Kelfield Moated Site and Fishpond, a Scheduled Monument dating back to the late 13th century, offering a glimpse into medieval manor life. Nearby, you can visit the impressive Bishopthorpe Palace Gatehouse, the official residence of the Archbishop of York since 1241. The Grade II listed Cawood Bridge, a swing bridge over the River Ouse, also presents a significant historical engineering marvel.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The The Sun – York Solar System Greenway (York End) is a unique 6.4-mile cycleway featuring scale models of planets, making learning fun. The Bridge with Fisherman Sculpture over the River Ouse offers a fun photo opportunity. Additionally, the Trans Pennine Trail: Selby to York Cycle Path is known for being safe and away from busy roads, perfect for family bike rides.
Kelfield is excellent for cycling. You can enjoy the The Sun – York Solar System Greenway (York End), a unique themed cycle path. The Trans Pennine Trail: Selby to York Cycle Path offers a safe route through the countryside. For more cycling options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Kelfield or MTB Trails around Kelfield, which include routes like the 'Solar System Cycleway – Millennium Bridge York loop'.
Kelfield is situated on the northern bank of the River Ouse, which is a significant natural feature in the landscape. The surrounding local farmland provides scenic views for walks and appreciating the English countryside. You can also find natural beauty along the Selby Canal, which offers a pleasant path for cycling or walking.
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails in the vicinity. You can find routes like the 'Bishop Wood Car Park – Chased by a Monstrous Killer loop from Biggin' or 'Danes Hills, Skipwith Common – Log Pile by the Path loop from Riccall'. For a comprehensive list of walking paths, refer to the Easy hikes around Kelfield guide.
Kelfield has a strong community spirit. The Grey Horse Pub serves as a traditional social hub, and the Kelfield Village Institute on Riccall Lane hosts various activities for residents. For sports enthusiasts, the Kelfield Cricket Club has its ground and a refurbished pavilion on Riccall Lane.
Visitors particularly appreciate the safety and scenic beauty of the cycle paths, such as the Trans Pennine Trail: Selby to York Cycle Path, which is well away from busy roads. The unique educational aspect of the The Sun – York Solar System Greenway (York End) with its planet models is also highly praised. Many enjoy the recent resurfacing work on paths, making for a smoother experience, and the photo opportunities at spots like the Bridge with Fisherman Sculpture over the River Ouse.
Beyond the historical moated site, Kelfield features several Grade II listed farmhouses, such as Corner Farmhouse and Village Farmhouse. These buildings showcase traditional local architecture with distinctive brickwork, pantile roofs, and historical details, reflecting the village's rural heritage. The Cawood Bridge, a Grade II listed iron swing bridge, is also an architectural highlight.
While Kelfield is on the River Ouse, for organized water-based activities, you might look slightly further afield. The White Cross Ski Club in nearby Cawood (approx. 1.2 miles) offers access to water sports. The River Ouse itself provides opportunities for appreciating the waterway, and the Selby Canal is popular with pleasure boaters.
Kelfield's proximity to larger centers means you have many options. The historic city of York (8-13 miles away) offers attractions like York Minster, The Shambles, Clifford's Tower, and the National Railway Museum. The town of Selby (approx. 5 miles away) is home to the magnificent Selby Abbey, known for its impressive architecture and history.
Yes, several nature reserves are within a reasonable distance, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the natural environment. These include Bolton Percy Station Nature Reserve, Barlow Common, and Askham Bog.
The Bridge with Fisherman Sculpture over the River Ouse is specifically noted as a good opportunity for a photo. The rural setting of Kelfield, surrounded by farmland and along the River Ouse, also provides many picturesque spots for capturing the tranquil English countryside.


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