From City to Countryside: Two Days in the Selby Area

As you leave York, ease yourself into the journey with a stop at Goddards, a charming Arts and Crafts-style house set within beautifully kept gardens. Created in the 1920s, the house offers a glimpse into early 20th-century living, while the gardens provide a calm, green escape just beyond the city’s edge. Take a gentle stroll along framed paths, pause by the herbaceous borders and, if time allows, enjoy views back towards York Minster.

Continue south to the picturesque village of Stillingfleet, home to one of North Yorkshire’s most peaceful gardens. Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens feel intimate and personal, with a variety of ‘garden rooms’ to explore, each with its own character and planting style. Wander beneath archways, discover thoughtful planting combinations and soak up the sense of calm. Before you leave, browse the well-stocked plant nursery, most of which are grown on site, a wonderful opportunity to take a little piece of North Yorkshire home with you. Afterwards, reward yourself with a visit to the much-loved tearoom, where homemade cakes and warming drinks make the perfect afternoon treat.

Spend the night at the Abbots Hotel, a characterful Georgian building just a short walk from Selby Abbey. Comfortable and convenient, it provides a traditional stay with easy access to Selby’s historic centre. After a good night’s rest, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore the town the following morning.

Begin your day and explore Selby’s town centre, where history is woven into everyday life. Follow part of the Selby Horseshoe Walk, an easy route that introduces you to the town’s riverside setting, historic streets and landmarks. Along the way, you’ll uncover stories from Selby’s past, from its maritime connections to its long-standing role as a market town. Take time to browse local shops, pause for coffee and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of a place shaped by centuries of change.

No visit to Selby is complete without stepping inside its magnificent abbey. Founded over 900 years ago, Selby Abbey remains a place of awe and quiet reflection. Admire the soaring stonework, intricate stained glass and the sense of calm that fills the space. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the abbey leaves a lasting impression and offers a strong connection to Selby’s monastic heritage.

In the afternoon, head out of Selby to follow the Towton Battlefield Trail, set within peaceful, open countryside. This self‑guided route explores the site of the Battle of Towton in 1461, the largest battle ever fought on English soil. Interpretation panels along the way bring the story to life, helping you understand how the landscape shaped events. Today, the quiet fields and wide views create a reflective atmosphere, offering a thoughtful and atmospheric way to end your Selby itinerary.