The Knavesmire is a large piece of open land to the south-west of the city, a mile or so from Micklegate Bar. It's one of the historic areas of public-access, undeveloped land called strays. It's criss-crossed by paths and cycle paths. (The latter, part of the Sustrans network and leading to the Milky Way route to Selby, a scale ride between the planets.) To the south is an area of woodland.

Though it is also used for recreation and open-air events, the Knavesmire is mainly known as the home of York's horse-racing.

But there is also a historic side to the Knavesmire. On the fringe of the fields, at the side on Knavesmire Road, a main approach road into the city, is a gruesome reminder of times past.

A small paved area and plaque marks the site of York's main tyburn, or gallows. These stood here from the 14th century on. Felons to be executed were brought from York Castle in a cart to this spot, including the famous highwayman Dick Turpin.