The land has been managed by the Pasture Masters since the 16th century under specific charter rights.
Burton Bushes is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ancient beech and oak woodland.
The pasture is grazed by local cattle under a system called 'stints' that dates back to the medieval period.
The racecourse track is built directly onto the open common, requiring temporary fencing only on event days.
The area was once part of a much larger forested landscape in the Middle Ages.
Beverley Westwood is a 600-acre tract of common pasture land owned by the Beverley Pasture Masters, allowing public access for centuries. It is characterized by its expansive, unfenced grazing land where cattle and sheep roam freely. The area incorporates the historic Beverley and East Riding Golf Club, one of the oldest in the region. The landscape features notable natural depressions known as the Burton Bushes, a remnant of ancient woodland. It serves as the venue for the Beverley Racecourse, which has hosted events since the 17th century. The site remains a protected common, meaning local freemen maintain historical grazing rights. It is adjacent to the Grade I listed Beverley Minster, providing a direct visual link to the town's ecclesiastical history. The terrain consists of rolling hills and chalk grassland unique to the Yorkshire Wolds periphery.
The high point near the racecourse grandstand provides a panoramic view of the cattle with Beverley Minster in the background.
Keep a respectful distance from the grazing cattle as they are free-roaming and territorial.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the chalky ground can become uneven and boggy after rain.
Bring binoculars if visiting in spring for birdwatching within the Burton Bushes woodland.
Attempting to feed the cattle or sheep, as this encourages aggressive behavior.
Open year-round; access to certain areas may be restricted on race days during the summer season.
Keep dogs under close control or on a lead near grazing livestock; leave no litter to protect the pasture animals.
