Discover the Beauty of the Hudson Way Rail Trail

Our shortcut to Beverley

Discovering the Hudson Way Rail Trail: A Walk Through East Yorkshire’s Past

For those who enjoy peaceful countryside walks with a dash of history, the Hudson Way Rail Trail is one of East Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets. Stretching for just over 10 miles between Beverley and Market Weighton, this disused railway line has been transformed into a scenic trail that combines natural beauty with remnants of the region’s railway heritage.

Following the Tracks of the Past

The Hudson Way follows the former York to Beverley railway line, which opened in the 1860s and operated for just over a century. The line was part of the ambitious vision of George Hudson, the so-called “Railway King” of Victorian England. Although his legacy was eventually tarnished by scandal, the line served local communities until the Beeching cuts led to its closure in 1965.

Today, the trail takes walkers and cyclists along the very route where steam engines once ran, offering glimpses of the past through crumbling station platforms, signal boxes, and the skeletal remains of Kiplingcotes Station. There’s something uniquely nostalgic about walking a line that once connected bustling towns and rural villages.

A Gentle, Rewarding Trail

The Hudson Way is ideal for all abilities. The terrain is largely flat and well-maintained, with a mixture of compacted gravel and some tarmac sections. It’s suitable for walkers, cyclists, families with children, and even horse riders in certain areas. The trail can be completed in one go or enjoyed in smaller sections, depending on time and energy.

Popular starting points include Market Weighton and Beverley, both of which offer parking and facilities. The midpoint near Goodmanham is perfect for a break, with a local pub and café offering refreshments before the return leg.

Nature Along the Way

This isn’t just a walk through history—it’s also a walk through nature. The trail meanders through peaceful countryside, fields, hedgerows, and wooded sections that are home to a rich variety of birds, butterflies, and wildflowers.

Two nature reserves sit along the route: Rifle Butts Quarry and Kiplingcotes Chalk Pit, both managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. These protected spaces are havens for orchids, butterflies, and other native species, offering a wonderful bonus for nature lovers.

Tips for the Trail

• Footwear: The path is mostly dry and firm, but sturdy shoes are a good idea after rain.
• Cycling: Suitable for hybrid or mountain bikes. Road bikes may find some gravel sections tricky.
• Accessibility: Most of the trail is suitable for pushchairs, though a few crossings involve steps or uneven ground.
• Food & Drink: Bring a picnic or stop at Goodmanham Arms or The Fiddle Drill Café.
• Transport: Buses connect Market Weighton and Beverley to nearby towns including Hull and York.

A Trail for All Seasons

Whether you’re seeking a quiet weekend stroll, a family day out, or a longer bike ride, the Hudson Way delivers. In spring and summer, the hedgerows buzz with life. In autumn, the woodlands turn golden. Even in winter, the open views and haunting remnants of the railway make for a striking walk.

More than just a trail, the Hudson Way is a journey through East Yorkshire’s natural and industrial heritage—a place where history, wildlife, and peaceful countryside come together.