Mount Snever Observatory, otherwise known as Oldstead Tower, was erected in 1838 to celebrate the accession of Queen Victoria to the throne. It is said to have housed a telescope, through which John Wormald (for whom the Observatory was built) might have done some stargazing. Don't miss the inscribed words on the side of the Tower; Wormald's adaptation of Alexander Pope's poem 'Windsor Forest'.

Charlie Eddington

May 23, 2021

Hiking

No access to the building but a nice surprise in the woods

RichD

May 20, 2024

Hiking

The permissive path from Oldstead towards the southwest is well signposted, but is very steep at 22%. Might be OK if you are fresh, but have to admit it is a real struggle after 15 miles hard hiking in 21 degree sunshine! Alternative is to use trekking poles, or approach from the woods to the east and then descend the woodland track to Oldstead, which would have been easier.

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Best Hikes to Mount Snever Observatory

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1. Byland Abbey and Mount Snever Observatory loop from Wass — North York Moors National Park

7.76km

02:14

190m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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2. Byland Abbey Ruins – Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass loop from Byland with Wass

22.9km

06:36

560m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

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3. Byland Abbey Ruins – Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass loop from Wass

5.84km

01:44

170m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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Elevation 240 m

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Saturday 24 January

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Location: Oldstead, Ryedale, North Yorkshire, Yorkshire And The Humber, England, United Kingdom

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Mount Snever Observatory

1. Byland Abbey and Mount Snever Observatory loop from Wass — North York Moors National Park

2. Byland Abbey Ruins – Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass loop from Byland with Wass

3. Byland Abbey Ruins – Abbey Bank Wood — Path to Wass loop from Wass

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