Walk stats
- Distance2 km · 1.3 mi
- Elevation+32 m
- Duration30 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Route typeCircular
- TerrainLevel tarmac and gravel paths, one gentle rise
- Best seasonYear-round, best in late spring and autumn
- DogsDogs welcome on leads
About this walk
This gentle two-kilometre loop threads through the University of York's parkland campus, taking in some of its landmark bridges and outdoor sculptures. Starting near Siward's Howe, the route follows level paths past mature trees and lakeside planting, with only a modest 32 metres of ascent to break up the walking.
From Siward's Howe the trail leads down to Wentworth Bridge, then curves round to Vanbrugh Bridge, both offering open water views across the campus lake. Along the way you pass the sculptures Moondancer and Antiphon, quiet punctuation marks among the trees. It is an easy half-hour circuit, well suited to a lunchtime stretch or a slower amble with a coffee.
Nearby points of interest include Lamel Hill Battery, Scullion's Lake and Spring Wood, all within easy reach if you want to extend the walk. Central Hall Bridge and the plaque to Sir Andrew Derbyshire, architect of the original campus, are also worth seeking out before you head back to the start.
Route map
Route line drawn from OpenStreetMap footpath data. Numbered markers are waypoints on the route; amber star markers are points of interest a short detour away.
Waypoints along the route
5 waypoints along the way
- 1
Siward's Howe
- 2
Wentworth Bridge
- 3
Vanbrugh Bridge
- 4
Moondancer
- 5
Antiphon
Worth a short detour
Points of interest just off the route, look for the amber markers on the map.
Sir Andrew Derbyshire
~288 m off the route
Lamel Hill Battery
~449 m off the route
Scullion's Lake
~271 m off the route
Spring Wood
~214 m off the route
Central Hall Bridge
~253 m off the route
Route & waypoint data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).