York rivers trail: the rivers and us
A new way to explore York’s rivers, the York rivers trail: the rivers and us is a walking and wheeling trail along the River Ouse in York, connecting people, place and flood resilience.
Following the river through parks, gardens and historic spaces, the trail invites you to explore how water shapes York - where it comes from, where it goes, and how what happens upstream affects life downstream.
Co-designed with communities, schools and artists, the trail brings together art, storytelling and digital experiences to reveal how York is adapting to a changing climate.
The trail can be explored in different ways - through physical visits, digital experiences and creative storytelling. The York rivers trail offers a new way to experience the city, at your own pace and from a different perspective.
About the trail
York is built on a natural floodplain, where rivers have shaped the landscape, wildlife and communities for centuries.
Trail route, map and stops
The York rivers trail follows the River Ouse through a series of green spaces and riverside locations, linking countryside and city.
Trail accessibility
People experience the city and its rivers in different ways, depending on access, mobility and individual circumstances.
Talk to the river
Along the trail, you can talk to the river using your mobile telephone to scan QR codes and start a conversation.
Connecting classrooms to the river
The York rivers trail is supported by the rivers and us toolkit, a set of curriculum linked resources for primary schools in York and North Yorkshire.
Explore, take part and learn more
The York rivers trail is designed to be explored in your own way - whether that’s a short visit, a longer walk, or returning to different places over time.
