Copmanthorpe: Historic Village Centre and Walking Routes

Copmanthorpe combines a historic village centre with a Heritage Trail and nearby walking routes. This gives you village history and walking as distinct focuses when planning your trip. The Copmanthorpe Conservation Area was designated in 1978 and includes Main Street, St Giles Church and Low Green; together, these form the village’s historic centre.

Historic Village Centre and Architectural History

St Giles is a Norman church and probably the oldest surviving building in Copmanthorpe. One specific architectural detail is the narrow, round-headed slit window in the south wall, which dates from the 12th century. The village’s history can therefore be explored both through the church’s historical context and through a particular architectural feature.

A Templar preceptory was founded on the edge of the village in the early 13th century; its exact location is uncertain. The preceptory was a small farm with a hall, a kitchen and a chapel. The medieval open fields of High Westfield and Low Westfield are also named historical features. They have remained relatively unchanged.

Heritage Trail and Walking Routes

Copmanthorpe has a Heritage Trail covering sites of historical interest or significance in the village. Free maps are available from Copmanthorpe Post Office and the library. Check collection arrangements before visiting, as local information may change.

Walks in Copmanthorpe range from 3 to 11 miles; they all start and finish at the Royal Oak on Main Street. Individual routes or sections may have changed. Check the route and the current status of the starting point before setting out.

The long-distance Ebor Way runs west along Colton Lane, passes through Copmanthorpe and continues east towards Bishopthorpe. A public footpath also connects Moor Lane with Colton. Check local conditions before walking.

Landscape and Practical Information

Open lowland surrounds Copmanthorpe. Fields bordered by native hedges and trees, along with scattered farms, shape the landscape. The open rural edge of the village offers views across the surrounding area. Alongside the village’s historic sites, the landscape and walking routes are separate themes to consider when planning your trip.

Bus route 13 runs from York city centre to Copmanthorpe and stops near the Royal Oak. As local route information may not reflect current services, check the timetable before travelling. To visit St Giles at other times, access can be arranged after contacting the vicar; please arrange such a visit in advance.

The Horticultural Show Committee organises an annual competition for gardeners in Copmanthorpe. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Strensall, Huntington, Holme-on-Spalding-Moor, Hessay, Rufforth, Knapton, Acaster Malbis

For the main travel guide: York.