York is known and admired as a beautiful tourist destination. That’s why we were amazed when we decided to take a walk through Homestead Park located at The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP.
These stunning ground stand out from the rest and here’s why.
🌳 Curious to see photos of every corner of Homestead Park in York? You’re in luck—I took them all! 👉 Click the link to jump to the gallery section!
A Brief Origin Of Homestead Park
Homestead Park was built over 100 years ago in 1904 by Seebohm Rowntree, son of Joseph Rowntree who created Rowntree Park, to let any class of people enjoy nature.
Since then it has been cared for by York citizens who look after the park, environment, and activities there.
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@discovering.york Come to the magical gardens of Homestead Park and enjoy all the Harry Potter Sculptures! Which ones your favourite? 🤔 #harrypotter #fyp #york #harrypottertiktok #harrypotterfan #sculpture #thingstodo #yorklovers #mustvisit #placestovisit #coolplaces #freeactivities #freethingstodo #kids #familydayout ♬ Harry Potter – The Intermezzo Orchestra
Things To Do At Homestead Park
Homestead Park offers plenty of activities to enjoy. When it gets chilly, I love grabbing a warm drink at the cafe and relaxing with something from their menu.
If I’m visiting with kids, the large park area with its variety of play equipment is perfect.
There’s also a short forest walk that circles around the back of the park, providing a nice little adventure.
My favorite part of Homestead Park is strolling through the gardens enjoying the sculptures and little water pond.
My Experience at Homestead Park
Homestead is hidden away on a busy main road and from first glance looks extremely small but i was very wrong.
Visiting with my daughter she loved the surprise of the large play area where we had an absolute blast on the slides.
We then took a peaceful short walk around the forest trail which was stunning, hidden by the long grass this adventure walk was the escape we both needed. I do wish it was longer.
I found the gardens the best part of the visit with the beautiful fish pond, flower patches and the amazing movie sculptures around the grounds made it entertaining.
To wrap up our visit we stopped at the cozy cafe to warm up with a delightful hot chocolate.
The Sculptures At Homestead Park
I found the sculptures to be a special touch to the park that you don’t often see. The sculptures show scenes from different stories and events.
My favorite was the one of Dobby from the Harry Potter selection. I especially liked these as I read the story many times as a kid so seeing the sculpture brought back many memories that I could share with my young daughter.
Other Sculpture include Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Jurassic Park.
They also reminded me of the York ghost trail, which I thoroughly enjoyed, as they used chicken wire to display ghosts that were said to haunt York.
Homestead Park York Gallery
👉 Tap to view them larger and open in a new tab 🌳
Enjoy 😊
Preparing For The Walk
- Toilets are available with no charge
- Disable friendly (Not the forest walk)
- Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Dog water bowls are kept near the cafe and toilet area
- Cafe is a pop up cafe with outdoor seating only
- Picnics welcome (Not BBQ’s)
Info and Map
- 🗺️ Address: 40 Water End, York, YO30 6WP
- 📞 Contact: 07917599895
- 📱 Homestead Park Socials: Facebook, Instagram
Summer Opening Times
| 🗓️ Days | 🕘 Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9.30am to 7.45pm |
| Tuesday | 12.30pm to 7.45pm |
| Wednesday | 9.30am to 7.45pm |
| Thursday | 12.30pm to 7.45pm |
| Friday | 9.30am to 7.45pm |
| Saturday | 9.00am to 7.45pm |
| Sunday | 9.00am to 7.45pm |
Cafe Opening Times
| 🗓️ Days | 🕘 Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10am – 4pm |
| Tuesday | 12.30pm – 4pm |
| Wednesday | 10am – 4pm |
| Thursday | 12.30pm – 4pm |
| Friday – Sunday | 10am – 4pm |
Where To Park?
I personally used street parking but i felt very bad local residents and was a long walk to the entrance of the park.
To later find out theirs a small car park located on Shipton Road, YO30 5RE.
The nearest large car park is Bootham Row Car park.
Public Transport
Buses run frequently across York but make sure to plan your journey here.
You can reach Homestead Park by several bus routes, including the Rawcliffe Park and Ride. Buses can stop at Ouse Lea, opposite the entrance to our car park on Shipton Road, or at Water End, which is opposite the pedestrian access gate.
🚕 Local Taxi Numbers:
- York Cars: 01904 765765
- Streamline: 01904 765765
- Getaway Cars: 01904 707070
Conclusion
My visit to Homestead Park was delightful filled with warmth, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you enjoy a hot drink at the cafe, watching the kids play, or strolling through the gardens, I found something special at every turn. I can’t wait to return!
FAQ
Can You Have BBQ’s at Homestead Park?
No BBQ’s are not allowed at Homestead Park.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times for everyone’s safety. They are not allowed in the children’s play area, except for assistance dogs. Dog water bowls are available near the toilets and café. Please do not leave your dogs in hot cars.
Is cycling allowed in the park?
Yes, cycling is allowed throughout the park, except on the Backhouse Pond footpath. Please remember that pedestrians always have the right of way.
Can I have a memorial for my parents in the park?
Yes, you can choose a bench or tree as a memorial for your parents. For more information, please check the leaflet in the download section and contact us if you need assistance.
What wildlife can I see at Homestead Park?
Homestead Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors may spot beautiful butterflies, rabbits, birds, dragonflies, and squirrels. There is also a leaflet available that suggests some of the wildlife you may see during your visit. Additionally, the park offers various tree-trail walks.
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