Brimham Rocks, located near Harrogate in North Yorkshire, is a wonderful destination for letting the kids release a little steam. With hundreds of rock formations just begging to be climbed and beautiful views for miles around, its one of my favourite places to visit on a clear day.
Opening Times and Prices:
Admission is free, but the car park requires a parking fee. Those with National Trust membership can park for free. The car park is open most days during the daylight hours. The Visitor Centre and Second Hand Bookshop are usually open during peak times. Click here to check out parking prices and opening times.
Parking/ Travelling:
During the Summer, Eastern DalesBus service 825 runs to Brimham Rocks. Off peak, the nearest bus stop is at Summerbridge – a 40 minute walk to Brimham Rocks. This is via the number 24 which travels between Harrogate and Pateley Bridge.
Driving is the easiest way to get here. It is a pay and display car park, free for National Trust Members. The machine accepts cash, and there is also an option to pay online. I couldn’t access this though as I had no signal, so I recommend bringing cash if you can!
Accessibility:
This is definitely not a place for prams, as the ground is uneven and there are obviously lots of rocks! However some effort has been made to make sure access to the main rocks are wheelchair friendly and mobility scooters can be hired for free, with advanced booking. There are accessible toilets at the visitor centre, but the second hand bookshop has no level access.
Things to do at Brimham Rocks
1. Explore nature’s playground by clambering over rocks and following the trails. There are several rocks to look out for in particular, such as the ‘Idol’ and the ‘Dancing Bear’. It’s also a wonderful place for wildlife spotting, with over 70 species of birds visiting. We loved the beautiful views of the heather moorland.
2. Go to the visitor centre and second hand bookshop. There is also a kiosk here selling NORTHERN BL°C ice cream, pasties, cakes and hot drinks. Find the sheltered seating inside the Dancing Bear activity centre or admire the views while sitting at one of the outdoor picnic benches.
3. Try out an event. During the school holidays, Brimham Rocks always puts something special on. There are also exciting taster days for things like climbing and abseiling. Click here to find upcoming events.
