Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
Yorkshire And The Humber
North Yorkshire
Ryedale

Foston

Attractions and Places To See around Foston - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Foston feature historical sites, architectural landmarks, and scenic viewpoints. The area contains man-made monuments and structures, providing insights into local heritage. Locations range from stately homes to ancient ruins and impressive bridges. This region offers opportunities to explore cultural and historical points of interest.

Best attractions and places to see around Foston

  • The most popular attractions is Temple of the Four Winds, a historical site that was designed by Vanbrugh. It was…

Last updated: July 3, 2026

New River Bridge, Castle Howard Estate

Highlight • Bridge

New River Bridge is part of the Castle Howard Estate. It's quite striking how the grassy track runs over it. The Mausoleum is right next to it, as is The …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Kirkham Priory Ruins

Highlight • Historical Site

The incredible ruins of Kirkham Priory are located in the village of Kirkham right next to River Derwent. This was an Augustinian priory, founded in 1120 by the Lord of …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Temple of the Four Winds

Highlight • Historical Site

You can visit the Temple as part of a tour of Castle Howard, but there are also walks in the grounds nearby. There’s a lovely circular walk from Welburn, a …

Tip by

Save

Castle Howard Obelisk

Highlight • Monument

The Obelisk, raised in 1714-15, carries two sets of inscriptions. The first, in Latin, commemorates the victories of the 1st Duke of Marlborough. The second, on the west side is …

Tip by

Save

This impressive old railway viaduct that spans over the River Derwent is built from beautiful red brick and consists of 15 arches.

Once a vital link for the railway connecting …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Foston.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Foston

Hiking around Foston

Running Trails around Foston

MTB Trails around Foston

Road Cycling Routes around Foston

Cycling around Foston

Tips from the Community

RichD
October 30, 2025, Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct

The oldest surviving cast-iron railway bridge of its kind in Britain, dating back to 1847. - The last train crossed the viaduct on 27 November 1965, after which the line was closed and the structure fell into disuse. By 1991, its condition had deteriorated so badly that East Yorkshire Borough Council planned to demolish it, estimating costs at £60,000. Thanks to local protests and rail heritage campaigners, the demolition was halted. The viaduct was restored and now forms part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, preserving its legacy for public enjoyment.

0

0

The remains of this Augustinian priory include a gatehouse adorned with the De Roos family heraldry. You can also learn about the priory's role in World War II, including Winston Churchill's secret visit and its use in training and testing for D-Day.

0

0

If you are following the footpaths to the east of the main Castle Howard grounds, you won't be able to get close to this folly (railings prevent access as it is within the Castle Howard grounds), but you will still have great views of it.

0

0

Unmissable and unfortunately not well served by public footpaths or bridleways, however, the main road has sufficiently wide verges to walk safely along. If you are heading north past the Obelisk Ponds, then there is a fantastic track on the east side of the road which is flanked by lime trees forming a wonderful avenue to walk along (see photos).

0

0

Grassy track over the New River, nice views of the estate and various follies from the bridge. Per historicengland.org: "c1740. By Daniel Garrett for Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. Sandstone ashlar. Banded rustication to cutwaters dividing 3 stepped segmental arches each with rusticated voussoirs and a mask keystone to central arch. Niches in tooled architraves with pulvinated friezes and consoles supporting pediments flank the main arch. Brackets support cornice surmounted by low parapet with central balustrade and coping. Ramped approaches have balustrading, rusticated piers to centre, and square-section end piers."

0

0

A nice 4.6 mile stroll with a gentle incline

0

0

This impressive old railway viaduct that spans over the River Derwent is built from beautiful red brick and consists of 15 arches. Once a vital link for the railway connecting York and Market Weighton, this structure stands as the largest remaining remnant of that historic railway line. Today, it has transformed into a tranquil and traffic-free crossing, offering a picturesque vantage point to admire the waterway below.

1

0

The Temple of the Four Winds was designed by Vanbrugh, although he didn't get to finish it before he died (1726). It was first used as a place to get refreshments and to read. There are gorgeous views of the hills from here as well!

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore around Foston?

Foston, North Yorkshire, is rich in historical sites. You can visit the impressive ruins of Kirkham Priory Ruins, an Augustinian priory founded in 1120. Another significant site is Castle Howard, a magnificent 18th-century stately home with extensive grounds. Don't miss the Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct, an impressive red brick structure that is a remnant of a historic railway line.

Are there any family-friendly attractions near Foston?

Yes, several attractions around Foston are suitable for families. Castle Howard offers extensive gardens and parkland for exploration, and its grounds include the Temple of the Four Winds. The Kirkham Priory Ruins are also considered family-friendly. For more active fun, nearby options include Piglets Adventure Farm Park and The Web Adventure Park.

What natural features or viewpoints can I find in the Foston area?

The Foston area offers several natural points of interest and scenic viewpoints. The Temple of the Four Winds at Castle Howard provides gorgeous views of the surrounding hills. You can also enjoy peaceful walks and natural beauty at Terrington Bank. The Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct offers picturesque views of the River Derwent below.

What outdoor activities can I do near Foston's attractions?

The area around Foston is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'All Saints Church and St Martin's Church loop' or the 'Kirkham Priory – Kirkham Priory Ruins loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are MTB trails and road cycling routes available. Explore these options and more on the hiking guide for Foston, the MTB trails guide, or the road cycling routes guide.

Are there any notable bridges or architectural marvels to see?

Yes, the Foston area features impressive architectural structures. The New River Bridge, part of the Castle Howard Estate, is a striking feature with a grassy track running over it. The Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct, with its 15 red brick arches spanning the River Derwent, is another significant historical bridge and a testament to 19th-century engineering.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Foston?

Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth and scenic beauty of the Foston area. Many enjoy the opportunity to explore ancient ruins like Kirkham Priory and the grandeur of Castle Howard. The picturesque views from spots like the Temple of the Four Winds and the tranquil walks along the River Derwent are also highly praised.

Are there any specific tips for visiting Castle Howard?

When visiting Castle Howard, consider exploring the entire estate, including the Temple of the Four Winds and the New River Bridge. There are lovely circular walks from nearby villages like Welburn that pass by these features. The estate also has tea rooms and cafes for refreshments. Check their official website for current opening times and ticket information.

Can I find cafes or refreshments near the attractions?

Yes, refreshments are available at some attractions. Castle Howard has a cafe in its courtyard and a small take-away coffee shop. At Kirkham Priory Ruins, there's a small shop within the entrance that offers drinks and snacks.

What is the best time to visit Foston for outdoor attractions?

The best time to visit Foston for outdoor attractions is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and the days are longer, making it ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying walks. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth discovering in the Foston area?

Beyond the main attractions, the Foston area holds several hidden gems. Terrington Bank offers a peaceful setting for walks away from the crowds. The area around Foston, North Yorkshire, is known for various outdoor activities and numerous hidden spots to explore. For a unique experience, consider visiting Yorkshire Lavender in Terrington for a serene attraction.

Are there any attractions related to the River Derwent?

Yes, the River Derwent plays a significant role in the landscape and history of the Foston area. The Kirkham Priory Ruins are located right next to the River Derwent, offering a picturesque setting. Additionally, the Stamford Bridge Railway Viaduct impressively spans over the River Derwent, providing scenic views of the waterway.

Most popular routes around Foston

Hiking around Foston

Most popular attractions around Foston

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

North York Moors National ParkHawnbyHelmsleyBransdaleStapeByland With WassRievaulxSproxtonCold KirbyCroptonOldsteadNewtonOld Byland And ScawtonWreltonLocktonAllerstonMiddletonPickeringEbberston And YedinghamNunningtonAislabyAmpleforthHartoftLevishamStonegraveFarndale WestCawtonBeadlamRosedale East SidePockleyMarishesGilling EastHaromeOswaldkirkNawtonFarndale EastKirkbymoorsideHovinghamThornton-Le-DaleLastinghamFadmoorWelburnGillamoorWiltonWombletonSinningtonAppleton-Le-MoorsCoultonBirdsallHeslertonScampstonRosedale West SideSpauntonWillerbySand HuttonGrimstoneWharramSettringtonMaltonScackletonHowardian Hills AONBWarthillUpper HelmsleyNorton-On-DerwentAcklamHuttons AmboLangtonThixendaleLeaveningScrayinghamTerringtonHabtonBurythorpeFrytonHutton-Le-HoleHowshamSheriff HuttonWestowBroughtonGate HelmsleyMartonKirby MispertonSaltonSlingsbyBarugh (Great And Little)Kirby GrindalytheEdstoneSwintonAmotherbyAppleton-Le-Street With EasthorpeBarton-Le-StreetHenderskelfeNormanbyConeysthorpeBarton-Le-WillowsFlaxtonHartonThornton-Le-ClayCrambeButtercrambe With BossallLillings AmboWhitwell-On-The-HillWelburnBulmerRillingtonBrawbyScagglethorpeSouth HolmeWintringhamThorpe BassettClaxtonGantonSherburnLuttonsFoxholesWeaverthorpe

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Barton-Le-Willows

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy