Hob Moor is one of York's most important green spaces, combining ancient common land, wildlife-rich grassland and family-friendly walking routes just a short distance from the city centre. 

Hob Moor | Nature Reserves in York

• Opening Hours: Open daily, all year round.
• Location: Hob Moor Local Nature Reserve, Hob Moor Drive, York
• Facilities: Surfaced foot and cycle path around the edge of the reserve, informal walking routes, benches, interpretation boards and multiple access points
• Suitable for: Families, walkers, cyclists, dog owners, birdwatchers and nature lovers
• Cost: Free entry
• Website: friendsofhobmoor.org.uk
• Contact: Friends of Hob Moor - hobmoorfriends@yahoo.com

Highlights

• One of York's four Local Nature Reserves and part of the historic Micklegate Stray
• Around 90 acres of ancient common land with a history dating back to at least 1374
• One of the only places within York's ring road where skylarks still nest
• Traditional summer cattle grazing helps maintain the species-rich grassland
• Historic features including medieval and Napoleonic ridge and furrow, the Plague Stone and Hob Stone
• Popular with walkers, cyclists, dog owners and wildlife enthusiasts

Hob Moor is one of York's hidden gems, offering a wonderful mix of open space, fascinating history and thriving wildlife. Situated between Acomb, Holgate and Dringhouses, this ancient common has been used for grazing since medieval times and remains an important part of the city's natural heritage. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Families can enjoy easy walks across the moor, spotting butterflies and wildflowers in summer or listening out for the distinctive song of skylarks overhead. The reserve's varied habitats support an impressive range of wildlife, while the open landscape provides plenty of space for children and dogs to burn off energy.

The Friends of Hob Moor charity works alongside City of York Council to protect and promote this special place through conservation projects, guided walks and community events. Their efforts help ensure future generations can continue to enjoy one of York's oldest open spaces. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Good to Know

• The main part of the moor is traditionally grazed by cattle between May and Hallowe'en, so dogs should be kept under close control during this period.
• There are multiple access points, including from Tadcaster Road, Hob Moor Drive, Green Lane, Holly Bank Grove, Thanet Road and North Lane.
• The surfaced perimeter path is suitable for cycling, pushchairs and sturdier mobility aids, while many of the internal routes are informal grass paths. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• There are no toilets, cafés or dedicated play facilities on site.
• Frequent buses run from York city centre, with the nearest stop at Pulleyn Drive.
• There are no nearby council car parks, although two parking spaces are available at the North Lane entrance and additional on-street parking can be found nearby. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Photo credit: https://friendsofhobmoor.org.uk/