We are the Midlife Hikers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Andrew P.
This walk takes in parts of the University of York campus and the surrounding farmland, before heading for a Sunday lunch in the pub. The walk is fairly level, mostly on good paths and tracks, and is ideal for new hikers, as well as more experienced Ramblers.
We start by the University Sports Grounds (meet near the shipping containers), head across Walmgate Stray, then climb up to the water tower – the highest point on this walk at a whopping 35 metres above sea level. After passing through the Science Park, we head onto the Heslington East Campus, passing through Diamond Wood and up onto Kimberlow Hill, which gives sweeping views over the campus, and the Vale of York. Looping around the Sports Village, we follow a footpath and bridge over the A64 to head through open farmland with expansive views. A mix of quiet country lanes and footpaths brings us back over the A64 and into Heslington village, before we finish our walk.
🍽️ After the walk there is the option to have Sunday lunch at The Deramore Arms in Heslington. If you would like to join us for the pub lunch, then you need to book your place in advance (by 4 September at the latest) by emailing the walk leader, Andrew – 📧 pndrew_arior@yahoo.co.uk – please use the subject line "MLH - Heslington". A £5 deposit will be required to secure your lunch reservation, payment details will be sent when replying to your booking email.
🅿️ Free parking in Car Park South (6.1) which is the first right as you turn onto Newton Way – look for the shipping containers in the middle of the car park (please note that one postcode covers the whole of the university campus and so will not take you to the right car park)
🚲 Cycle racks are available
🚌 U1/U2 bus from York Station by 09:00, and the meeting point is a few minutes' walk from the Library/Campus Central bus stop on University Road
🐶 Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a lead at all times
🍺 After the walk, you are welcome to join us for a drink in the Deramore Arms even if you aren't staying for lunch
Midlife Hikers is a Ramblers group for people in their 40s and 50s, and our walks are led by volunteers. Non-members are welcome to try us out for free for up to 3 walks but then we ask you to join the Ramblers
Campus South car park (6.1), Newton Way, Heslington, York
