EXPLORE
Local Attractions and Eateries
Information
Attractions & Eateries
There is plenty to see and do in and around Stillingfleet. Below is a little selection of our favourite restaurants and places to visit. It’s not an exhaustive list by any means but it will be a good start! Click the tabs to reveal the info and let us know what you think!
Local Eateries
Local Restaurants
Burro
Discover a taste of Italy at Burro in nearby Riccall – Your ultimate Italian restaurant experience set in a quirky old windmill! This is a firm favourite of ours and our guests.
Indulge in authentic Italian flavours and dishes, all served with a contemporary edge. Burro Italian restaurant is a culinary haven, bringing the very best of Italy to your plate. From classic pasta dishes to delectable pizzas, immerse yourself in a true Italian gastronomic adventure. Service is always excellent.
Prices are ££
Distance 5 miles (10 mins)
Burro Italian Restaurant website
The Drover’s Arms
Experience unparalleled hospitality anda charming countryside ambiance set in an historic building. As a quintessential English pub nestled in the heart of Skipwith, they offer a diverse menu featuring traditional pubclassics crafted from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a hearty Sunday roast or seeking vegetarian delights, their menu caters to every palate. With a cosy interior and a picturesque beer garden, The Drover’s Arms provides the perfect backdrop for casual gatherings and intimate dinners.
Dog Friendly
Prices are ££
Distance 6.8 miles (11 mins)
SangThai
Discover the exquisite flavours of Thailand at Sangthai, Escrick’s culinary gem. An authentic Thai dining experience situated in the picturesque village of Escrick. SangThai offer a menu that captures the essence of Thai cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their dishes are expertly crafted using the finest ingredients, ensuring an explosion of flavours in every bite. From the aromatic curries to the tantalizing stir-fries, our menu caters to both traditional enthusiasts and those seeking bold new tastes. The charming and inviting ambiance of Sangthai is set in a lovely church cottage building and they have a very relaxed service here.
Prices are ££
Distance 3.3 miles (6 mins)
The Rythre Arms
The Rythre Arms Steakhouse has been the ‘Steak Mecca of Yorkshire’ for over 38 years! It is a quaint pub and restaurant situated in the charming village of Ryther. Experience the perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort. As a premier gastropub, they offer a diverse menu using the finest locally sourced ingredients. From hearty pub classics to innovative culinary creations, with a carefully curated drinks selection to complement every dish you’ll have an enjoyable visit.
Prices £££
Distance 4.6 miles (9 mins)
The Blacksmith’s Arms
The Blacksmith’s Arms is your ultimate destination for an authentic Yorkshire pub experience. Situated in the charming village of Biggin, this historic pub welcomes you with open arms to enjoy a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern hospitality. Their menu is a tribute to Yorkshire’s culinary heritage, featuring locally sourced ingredients expertly crafted into mouthwatering dishes, their diverse offerings cater to every palate. Their warm and inviting hospitality is matched only by the lovely crackling fireplace.
Dog Friendly
Prices ££
Distance 6 miles (10 mins)
The Fat Abbot
The Fat Abbot Gastro Pub, is an exceptional culinary dining experience. With a commitment to using only the finest locally sourced ingredients, their menu showcases a fusion of traditional British fare and innovative gastronomy. From indulgent pub classics to artistic creations that delight the senses, each dish is a testament to our dedication to culinary excellence and they really are delicious. Their menu changes regularly with specials on most days. The portions here are very generous but on occasions the service has been less so.
Prices ££
Distance 3.3 miles (6 mins)
The Waterfront Cafe
The Waterfront Cafe at York Marina is a beautiful setting to sit and watch the world go by. Situated right on the riverbank, overlooking the River Ouse, so you can relax and enjoy the wonderful view as boats pass by up and down the river.
Their newly refurbished cafe/bar serves up everything, from great tasting ground coffees, to ice cold beer, wine and cocktails. Seasonal menus offer something for everyone from classic dishes, to contemporary trends, which are always created using freshly prepared, wholesome food that is locally sourced. We also have a great selection of tasty cakes and treats.
Our river frontage has plenty of sociable seating on the grassy riverbank, which is great for enjoying the sun with a top-notch view. For those cooler days they have an inside area with comfortable seating and a roaring log fire.
The venue has dog-friendly areas and the service is professional but friendly.
Dog Friendly
Prices ££
Distance 3.3 miles (6 mins)
The Olive Branch Bistro
A combination of Turkish and Greek cuisine. This is our go to for Mediterranean and Eastern dining! Their menu is packed with hearty dishes from comforting classics to their own innovative creations for a celebration of flavours. They are all about creating heartwarming memories in a homely environment.
Prices ££
Distance 7.4 miles (16 mins)
York City Restaurants
Nola
New Orleans Louisiana cuisine
For Dining, Drinks & Jazz – love Jazz!
Housed in the old congregational chapel on Lendal, NOLA is a Restaurant & Bar styled in a 1920s Art Deco Theme.
The upstairs bar and waiting area is decorated in period mirrors and marble. Downstairs is the main restaurant, which has large leather upholstered chairs and easy banquette seating and dark wood panelling. Downstairs is where the live jazz is performed three times a week.
Prices are ££
Nola, Lendal
Rustique
French Bistro
Experience exquisite French dining in an upbeat Bistro atmosphere
Established in 2004, Rustique specialises in rustic French cooking in a busy, vibrant upbeat Bistro atmosphere.
Offering a large and varied selection of traditionally cooked, locally sourced meat and fish dishes, we pride ourselves on giving our customers a first class, French-inspired dining experience.
Their delicious set menu is extensive and great value!
Prices are ££
Rustique, Castlegate
Pairings
Pairings Wine Bar
Pairings is a relaxed table service bar with an appreciation for fine wines, beer, whisky, gin and cocktails. Offering small plates and sharing boards, featuring the absolute best in locally sourced charcuterie, cheese, fish and desserts.
Award-winning independent wine-led restaurant run by sisters passionate about pairing wine and food.
Prices are ££
Pairings, Castlegate
Kalpakavadi
South Indian Cuisine
Kalpakavadi means land of coconut derived from Kerala. Kerala is every food lover’s paradise. Kerala is the land of exotic spices, so be surprised by the spicy curries and flavourful dishes of this state.
Kerala cuisine is a blend of both vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes but spiciness and taste assuring that it lingers long in both your mouth and mind.
Along with the spicy curries and biriyanis there are desserts like payasam, halwa of different varieties.
Prices are ££
Kalpakavadi, Fossgate
Ambiente
Ambiente, Spanish Tapas
Ambiente have been delighting regulars & newcomers alike with the city’s favourite tapas since 2014.
Whether you’re coming in for a relaxing lunch or with a group of friends on a Friday night, expect a vibrant and welcoming dining experience.
Food is cooked fresh and at the point of order – you won’t find microwaves in our kitchen! Their menu features all of the city’s favourite mouthwatering tapas dishes – think caramelised chorizo and potato, patatas bravas (vgo), calamares and croquettas. Also catering to the full list of dietary requirements and have an abundance of vegetarian and vegan options available!
Prices ££
Ambiente, Fossgate & Goodramgate
Little Italy
Italian Retauraunt and Deli
Prices ££
Little Italy, Goodramgate
Take Outs and Dog Friendly list
Take Out
Happy Haddock, Deighton (7 mins) 07762 561730
Riccall Pizza and Grill, Riccall (8 mins) – will deliver 01757 249966
Burro, Riccall (9 mins) 01757 249146
Castle Inn, Cawood (6 mins) 07585 008355
SangThai, Escrick (6 mins) 01904 728462
Dog Friendly
There are a few local restaurants and cafes who are dog friendly.
Cafes:
Naburn Lock, Naburn
Waterfront Cafe, York Marina, Naburn
Olivia’s Tearoom, Hollicarrs (garden)
Restaurants:
Waterfront Cafe, York Marina, Naburn
Castle Inn, Cawood
Drovers Arms, Skipwith
Blacksmith’s Arms, Biggin
Out and about
North York Moors and Goathland
Famous for its fictitious setting as Aidensfield in the ITV series Heartbeat, Goathland is situated between Pickering and Whitby and is on the North York Moors Railway.
At one end you will find the trains and Heartbeat memorabilia and the other end the Mallyan Spout Waterfall with a country house hotel of the same name where you can find refreshments.
There is a walk between Goathland and Grosmont on the old railway track at which, if timed right, you can catch a train back. Grosmont hosts the engine sheds for the NYMR and there is always a mighty steam engine to be seen being overhauled.
Distance to Goathland approx 47 miles (1 hr 8 mins)
Walks and Cycling
There are dozens of public footpaths meandering through the tranquil countryside around Stillingfleet and its surrounding villages. Check out this Definitive Map here to plan your routes.
The Solar System Way cycle trail is a few minutes away and is part of the Trans Pennine Trail, stretching all the way from York to Selby. It’s also an easy walk on solid pathways, which are reasonably flat.
Along the way you can see the ‘Cycle the Solar System’ artwork, commissioned by Sustrans. Three scientists from the University of York constructed a 10.4km to scale model of the solar system between Bishopthorpe and Riccall. There are models of planets with their proportional distances from the sun and one another.
If you are walking with your dog(s), please do be respectful of the surrounding farmland. For your safety and theirs, always follow The Countryside Code and stick to the designated footpaths (clearing up any of your doggy mess along the way).
Outdoor pursuits
Boat Hire at York Marina
Boat hire on the River Ouse has a lot to offer for anyone who wants to take the day out and get away from it all. It’s never been easier to get on the water with no previous experience required and no hassle involved. York Marina provide you with life jackets, insurance, and fuel – all included in their prices to make life simple.
They have a small fleet of boats available for self-drive hire throughout the year and offer hire periods from half a day up to a full day depending on your requirements.
Explore the beautiful River Ouse from Naburn Lock to Linton Lock, taking in such sights as the Splendor of Bishopthorpe Palace and the picturesque historic centre of York.
Distance 3.3 miles (6 mins)
Naburn Grange Riding Centre
Naburn Grange is a small family run BHS Approved Training Centre. It has been established on this site since 1980. It is located in quiet picturesque countryside by the river.
The centre caters for small groups and individuals, adults and children, from beginners to advanced, providing a personalised service, from qualified, friendly staff.
The quality horses and ponies are well schooled and good mannered, with many being home bred.
There is good hacking available off road and through woodland. For lessons there is an indoor school, outdoor arena (60m x 40m), showjumping course and cross country, including banks and ditches.
Distance 2.3 miles (4 mins)
Wild Swimming at Pool Bridge Farm
Pool Bridge Farm offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy Wild (open water) Swimming in one of it’s three stunning swimming lakes set within magnificent Yorkshire countryside.
Open daily from 7:30am until 9:00pm, or dusk, whichever is the earlier.
Each of the three swimming lakes has its own unique character and appeal. The Monet Lake is the adult-only, tranquil lake. The M Lake is the family lake. The Horseshoe Lake is great for exercising for both adults and children. No special equipment is necessary, just your swimming togs and a towel! Remember to bring your own towels if you are swimming! Tickets are also available for those not swimming and just wishing to use the lakesides.
For those plucking up the courage to take their first wild swimming plunge, or for those just wishing to indulge between dips in the lakes, our traditional, wood-fired lakeside sauna can be booked for individual or group hourly slots.
Paddle-boarding is also allowed on one of the lakes.
There is a on-site café selling delicious homemade cakes, wood-fired pizza, Sunday lunches and much more. Open from 9am to 4pm Thursday to Sunday as well as bank holidays.
For those wishing to spend a little more time in the peaceful surroundings, Pool Bridge Farm offers a spacious campsite just a 25 minute cycle ride or an hour stroll through beautiful meadowland from York City centre. The perfect place to unwind.
Please note that dogs are welcome both in and outside the immediate cafe area, however dogs are not allowed by the lakes.
Distance 6.7 miles (12 mnutes)
Swallow Hall Golf Course
In 1991 Swallow Hall opened The Academy Course, a par 28, 9 hole golf course in 1991. This is ideal for those who are learning to play, have recently taken up golf as a hobby, or are a budding young professional. It’s also perfect for those who don’t have the time for a round of 18 or to play on days when the weather doesn’t look promising. Due to the success of The Academy Course, in 1992 a further 9 holes were added, followed by another 9 in 2006, which led to the opening of The Swallow’s, an 18 hole par 64 course. The addition of the extra holes now gives golfers the opportunity to play a round of either 9, 12, 18 or 27 holes.
They also have a practise hole which can be hire for £5 per hour.
Should you wish to improve your swing our PGA qualified professional, Jamie Ashworth, offers golf tuition at a small cost to all ages and abilities. He can be contacted on 07790 010932.
Swallow Hall is a pay as you play course therefore you are able to play when it’s convenient for you without having to book a tee time.
Distance 7.7 miles (13 mins)
Fishing
There are two fishing lakes closeby:
Glade Farm and Raker Lakes
Glade Farm
The coarse fishing pond is over an acre in size with 17 purpose built spacious pegs, set in secluded picturesque setting.
Stocked with carp, perch, tench, chubb, rudd, roach and an old population of eels, we have something for most keen fishermen and women
Distance 3.8 miles (7 mins)
Raker Lakes
Set in 28 acres of landscaped countryside, Raker Lakes has 4 coarse lakes and a specimen lake, catering for match, pleasure and specimen anglers.
Distance 7.5 miles (13 mins)
Dark Skies
There is very little light pollution in and around the village of Stillingfleet.
This makes it a perfect place for gazing at the wonders of the night sky.
On a clear night the sky is alight with stars and their constellations. It’s a joy to see.
The Coastal Towns
Whitby
Whitby, a quaint old fishng village, is famous for its Abbey, Captain Cook and even Count Dracula!
Distance 54 miles (1 hr 10 mins)
Robin Hood’s Bay
Robin Hood’s Bay can be foind a little way south of Whitby along the coast road. You will find a very steep road which is pedestrianised through the sleepy former fishing village. Robin Hood’s Bay is famous for its smuggling.
The quaint houses nestled in the cliff are a sight to behold and the steep walk down (and back up!) is well worth it.
There are plenty of pubs and cafes along the route and it is on the Cleveland way if you wish to walk a few miles along the cliffs.
Distance 57 miles (1 hr 15 mins)
Scarborough
Scarborough has majestic historic hotels and a castle. There are fish and chips a-plenty and a lovely walk along the beach.
Distance 48 miles (1 hour)
Filey
Just a little further south again, you will find Filey. For the twitchers amongst you, a visit to see the puffins at Bempton Cliffs and the kittiwakes at Flamborough Head are great excursions.
Distance 48 miles (! hour)
Little Skipwith Carriage Rides
Enjoy a beautiful horse-drawn woodland carriage ride around a private country estate in between Selby and York. Your carriage awaits you on the outskirts of the park in Skipwith Village, where you will be greeted by their friendly staff, horses or ponys. Climb aboard your carriage and prepare to take in the views. Make yourself comfortable as they take you on a tour of the woodland tracks and country lanes within the estate. Lucky visitors may spot a glimpse of deer or buzzards while meandering through the trees. They offer everyone a hot drink at the halfway point and cold drinks in the warmer months.
This experience is suitable for all ages. They also have a private tea room in the village if you would like to try their tasty treats, afternoon Cream Teas, or traditional Ploughmans lunches. Their carriages are under cover so you won’t get wet should it rain, and in the colder months they even provide fluffy blankets.
Check out a few piccies below;
Places to Visit
Castle Howard
This magnificent house and gardens is a steeped in history and is famous for its film Brideshead Revisited. With 1,000 acres to explore outside the house, Castle Howard is a haven of peace and tranquility with extensive woodland walks, temples, lakes and fountains.
Although building work began in 1699, the construction of Castle Howard took over 100 years to complete, spanning the lifetimes of three Earls.
The monumental landscape offers breathtaking views at every turn, taking in the countryside of the Howardian Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Castle Howard also boasts a farm shop from where we source our meat and a garden centre.
Distance 22.4 miles (32 mins)
The National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum in York displays an enormous collection of trains. Rolling stock includes Stephenson’s Rocket, Mallard and The Flying Scotsman . It is the largest museum of its type in Britain. It is a great free family day out with activities and adventures for all.
Distance 8.4 miles (20 mins)
Elvington Air Museum and Race Track
Air Museum
The huge range of exhibits and collections span the history of flight, from the earlier pioneers of aviation, through both World Wars and on through the Cold War era.
Today they have over 60 historic aircraft and vehicles. Then, as time passes, they acquire newer exhibits to commemorate later conflicts or acheivements, with their Post World War Two comllection being one of the most comprehensive in the UK. Fron the 1853 Cayley Governable PArachute, through to the current GR4 Panavia Tornado, the museum represents the vast history of aviation in Britain.
Track Days
Elvington racetrack is one of the largest airfield venues in use. The airfield benefits from having plenty of run-off areas, which are perfect for novices. Their range of SuperCars available to drive is second to none!
Yorkshire Lavender Farm
A family run business, established in 1994, Yorkshire Lavender has hundreds of different lavender and herb varieties to admire around the lavender farm and to buy in their specialist plant nursery. In summer, the lavender with its stunning array of different colours, from white through a complete range of blues, lilacs to magnificent deep purples, along with the range of distinct and heady scents, is a wonderful experience.
Lavender oil has been used for centuries for its healing and antiseptic properties which they make into their our own Yorkshire Lavender products for you to purchae on site.
Distance 25 miles (35 mins)
Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens
StillingfleetLodge Garden is a quintessentially English garden, managed to be as wildlife friendly as possible. It is their family garden, lovingly planted-up over 40 years and now comprises a series of small gardens surrounding their family home. The gardens open out into an avenue that leads to a wild flower meadow.
The planting emphasises a cottage garden style and every part is maintained organically. They purposefully leave seed heads as food for birds and limit cutting back to provide habitat for insects.
For visitors who prefer more formal gardens they have incorporated an elegant rill garden with minimalistic planting. The perennial wild flower meadow is a haven for native plants and wildlife and we encourage visitors to sit and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere around the naturally planted pond.
In-keeping with their ethos of sustainability, they now have an organic vegetable plot, which is very much their kitchen garden. Together with the orchard and their rare breeds of poultry the garden provides them with food throughout the year.
Meet Donald, the resident cat!
The gardens also boast a beautiful pond and a series of small waterfalls. Visitors can sit by the pond and enjoy the peaceful sounds of running water and the beautiful reflections of the trees and sky. The garden also has a small stream that runs through it, adding to the calming atmosphere of the space. The water features also attract a variety of wildlife, including frogs, toads, and dragonflies.
Visitors can learn about their eco practices and how they can incorporate them into their own gardens. The gardens also offer a variety of workshops and courses on gardening and wildlife conservation, making it a great destination for people of all ages who are interested in gardening and the environment. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens.
Open April through September at limited times
Stillingfleet Lodge Gardens website
Distance 0.2 miles (1 min on foot)
City of York
Historic York
Discover a rich tapestry of entertainment in York and beyond. York has an incredible wealth of things to see and do, with the ancient walled centre offering more attractions per square mile than any other destination in the UK.
As one of Europe’s largest pedestrian zones, you’re never more than a short walk from one of York’s awe inspiring sights or attractions.
York City Walls
Built by the Romans and used to quarantine the city against the Black Death in the middle-ages, have been defending York for two thousand years. Visitors can walk around the walls hopping on and off to see the variours sites in York.
York Minster
The largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, The Shambles previously a street of butchers shops and many more historic buildings and streets.
Clifford’s Tower
Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror – a motte-and-bailey castle on the present site of Clifford’s Tower in York – to strengthen his military presence in the north. The tower is now the most prominant remaining part of the castle, which was rebuilt in stone in the 13th century. Today, views from the Tower over York show why it played such a key role in the control of northern England.
Distance 7 miles (15-20 mins)
See Visit York for things to do in and around York.
Murton Park
Murton Park Living Museum
The perfect fusion of history, education and fun for every age
Home to The Yorkshire Museum of Farming, Murton Park is a must-experience, one-stop Living Museum for those who love to create memories that can span the eons of time. Perfect for all generations and crafted to especially engage the young.
Murton park is not only a remarkable open-air museum experience like no other, it is much more and also plays home, and host, to some of the best known and most accomplished historical re-enactment Societies in the North of England. Look out for the special events held throughout the year (see What’s On section of website) when groups like the cowboy Trail Blazers Western Re-enactment society, Jorvikingi Viking Re-enactment society or Jorfor’s Hall Early Medieval Re-enactment and Living History Group, take up residence at Murton Park.
With our own Museum, Railway, Animals, Playground and Living History Sites – we have something for everyone.
Distance 9.6 miles (18 mins)
York Racecourse
York Racecourse has been a member of the community since 1731.
Throughout the year they host an active programme of events from music to charity and family days.
York University
The University of York is a collegiate research university in York, England. Established in 1963, the university has expanded to more than thirty departments and centres, covering a wide range of subjects. South-east of the city of York, the university campus is about 500 acres in size.
The York University provides outstanding teaching and research in a beautiful and historic city. York University is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive UK universities.
Distance 7 miles (14 mins)
Selby Abbey
Inspiring architecture; sacred space and a vibrant worshipping community make Selby Abbey the place it is today. Men, women and children have worshipped here and served the wider community for over 900 years.
Selby is a small Yorkshire town, 12 miles South of York with one of the most superb Abbey churches to be found anywhere in England. The Abbey is not just a building it is a living and vibrant part of the local community yet provides space that allow the visitor and the worshipper alike to find peace, tranquillity and the very presence of God.
Throughout its long and turbulent history, the Abbey has undergone many changes and therefore never stands still. We look forward to welcoming you to this wonderful building and hope you will enjoy it for its history, its architecture and its space but above all for an encounter with God. For more of the Abbey’s history, look here
Visiting: We are 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.
Distance 7 miles (15 mins)