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Howden is a market town in the East Riding of Yorkshire. It lies in the Vale of York to the north of the M62, on the A614 road about 16 miles south-east of York and 3 miles north of Goole, which lies across the River Ouse.

Howden is a welcoming town with a rich history and a friendly community. Steeped in centuries of stories, its historic streets are home to a wonderful mix of independent shops, places to eat, fascinating sights and things to do. Whether you’re visiting as a family, with friends or as a couple, there’s plenty to discover. You may like to visit:

Howden Minster: A Grade I listed historic landmark featuring an imposing 135 ft tower.

Howden Marsh: A peaceful nature area with a boardwalk, perfect for observing local wildlife like ducks, fish, and tadpoles.

The Ashes: A central outdoor space and playing field that offers a place for families and all generations to enjoy the outdoors.

Market Place: A traditional area ideal for local shopping.

The Shire Hall: A central community hub for the town.

Discover more things to see and do here.

Howden has a fantastic selection of independent family-run eateries, bakeries, butchers and bars.

You might like to settle down for brunch at Kitchen, a bakery and delicatessen that is frequented by locals. Or perhaps stop off at Ginger’s traditional ice cream parlour for refreshments on a hot summer’s day. For craft beer enthusiasts, The Hop Cavern is a great place to socialise whilst enjoying a selection of refrigerated beers and ciders on draught.

To view all available food and drink options in Howden, click here.

For short and long-stay parking, Hailgate Car Park is located on Charles Briggs Avenue (DN14 7ST), just 170 yards from the town centre. It is open 24 hours a day, with charges applying from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, including bank holidays; parking is free on Sundays.

This car park provides 32 short-stay spaces, 36 long-stay spaces, and dedicated disabled parking. There are no height restrictions, and the ticket machines accept both cash and card payments.

Bishop Manor House Car Park on Hailgate (DN14 7SZ) is situated 150 yards from the centre and offers long-stay parking 24 hours a day. It follows the same charging schedule as Hailgate Car Park, with fees applicable 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and free parking on Sundays.

It features 78 standard spaces and 2 disabled spaces, has no height restrictions, and accepts cash or card payments via the ticket machines.

There is also limited on-street parking available in the town centre, for parking up to 1 hour.

There are a range of accommodation options in and near Howden, including self-catering farm cottages, a Grade II listed hotel, dog-friendly holiday lets and a caravan park.

To view the full range, click here.

With direct links to the A63 and the M62, Howden is well-connected with great access to major towns and cities including Leeds, York, Doncaster and Hull.

Howden has its own railway station, which is a 25 minute walk from the town, the Goole + Howden Hopper runs from Howden to Goole station (Monday-Saturday). Howden railway station offers regular services to York, Selby and Hull, reaching destinations further afield such as London King’s Cross and Manchester Piccadilly.

If travelling by bus, you can catch the East Yorkshire Buses 55 service from Hull to Goole or the 942 service running between Howden and Wyke College.

Howden benefits from a flat landscape, making it ideal for cyclists. You can view Howden cycle routes here.

Howden is only 40 minutes away from the historic city of York, famed for its city walls and cobbled streets. You could take a trip to the Minster, have a hand at chocolate making, or discover your inner viking at the Jorvik museum! Don’t miss out on a trip to the National Railway Museum, featuring real locomotives and free entry for all.

To the East, Howden is 35 minutes from the city of Hull, the former ‘City of Culture’. Explore the award-winning aquarium The Deep, housing over 5000 species! Or for a more relaxed visit, take a leisurely stroll around East Park, which features a boating lake and an Animal Education Centre.

Howden is also well connected to other major cities such as Leeds and Doncaster via rail services.

Howden is welcoming and accessible for all. For visitors arriving by car, you will find dedicated disabled spaces available at Hailgate and Bishop’s Manor House car parks.

For visitors arriving by train, Howden Railway Station offers step-free access from the car park and ramped platform access via the level crossing. From Howden station, you can catch the Goole + Howden Hopper bus into the town centre. The low-floor buses provide step-free boarding for passengers with restricted mobility.

A Changing Place accessible facility and baby-changing facilities are available on Charles Briggs Avenue (open daily from 5am to 7pm).

Additionally, upcoming accessibility improvements at The Ashes Playing Field will introduce an inclusive wheelchair-accessible swing, an upgraded entrance, durable all-weather pathways, and accessible seating. You can find out more about these upgrades here.

You and your furry friend are welcome at several spots in town. Howden Marsh is a popular haven for dog walkers, as is the Howden Mile at The Ashes, where locals stretch their legs by completing two loops of the park’s perimeter. Perfect to keep tails wagging!

Several local businesses welcome dogs, including the Badger & Bean café, Badger’s Deli in the Market Place, and Blue Sky Cards & Gifts. For the ultimate treat, take your pup to Dixie’s Dog Spa & Shop, stocking a selection of treats, toys, fashion harnesses, matching accessories and more.

Howden has a thriving community, with regular events to attend. To see what’s coming up, view our events calendar.

Should you need a doctor’s surgery while visiting, Howden Medical Centre is located on Pinfold Street. For dentistry, family-run B & R Dental Care can be found at 2 Marsh End.

For more services or information, click here.

Howden is fortunate to have three schools within the town: Howden Church of England Infants School, Howden Junior School and Howden School (Secondary).

Once the submerged landscape of “Lake Humber,” Howden rose from the silt to become a historic market town, with roots stretching back to its first recorded mention in 700 AD.

Shaped by Norman influence, a thriving 13th-century market, and legendary 18th-century horse fairs, the town has long been a centre of commerce and community. It was connected to the wider region in 1929 by Boothferry Bridge. Today, Howden stands as a vibrant, storied hub in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

To find out more about the town’s history, click here.

Whether you have a question, a comment, or a special request, our team at Visit Howden is here to assist you. Send us an email at contact@visithowden.co.uk or click here to fill out our contact form.