Fancy taking your kids to a magical natural labyrinth that is like something straight out of a fantasy world? Carved out over 400 million years ago, Brimham Rocks in the Yorkshire Dales Nidderdale region of the Yorkshire Dales, which is an Area of Outstanding Beauty. The natural rock formations are an amazing collection of crazy rock formations that are perfect to climb and explore like a nature-made playground.
With beautiful views of Nidderdale, it’s the perfect family outing. You can enjoy the beautiful views in the Yorkshire Dales whilst your children let their imaginations run wild as they explore all the nooks and crannies of Brimham Rocks.
What is the story behind Brimham Rocks?
The rocks – formed over millions of years – have taken unique forms that are other-worldly. The hardmilstone grit resisted the glacial erosion and was left exposed as softer tocks were cut away by moving ice creating these fantastic stone formations. You can look out for different shapes such as the Smartie Tube, Castle Rock, the Druid’s Writing Desk and the Idol.
Others to look out for are the Sphinx, the Watchdog, the Camel, the Turtle and the Dancing Bear. These formations inspire and leave people in awe.
The hard millstone grit of Brimham resisted this glacial erosion and was left exposed as the softer rocks of the Nidderdale Valley were cut away by the moving ice, before it finally melted about 10,000 years ago.
How long does it take to walk the Brimham Rocks?
The shorter route around the rocks from the National Trust car park is quite easy – and takes around 1 h 19 mins to complete the 2.5 mile walk, which is pretty flat also. Or, you can head around the 9-mile walk which should take around 4 to 5 fours taking you through a varied woodland path, graveled tracks and fields. This route takes you from the famous Pateley Bridge village, up to the National Trust sight and is quite a steep walk.
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The natural rock formations have inspired visitors for hundreds of years – drawing in people from all over the world. Whether you’d like to take in the views or bring out your inner child and climb them – it’s the perfect day out.
You can learn about the myths and legends that surround the rocks, like the claim from the mid-18th century that they had been made by druids. Make up your own mind on what is true or not. Or create your own little story.
As well as the famous rock formations that bring thousands of people to the area each year, there are miles of footpaths and moorland to explore. The area has been classified as an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest)due to its varying plant life, such as the three varieties of heather found there.
Check out the map of the walk here. There are toilet facilities and food and beverage opportunities on-site. If you’d like more information, visit their website here.
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