Brimham Rocks are a collection of weird and wonderful rock formations scattered across about 50 acres of moorland near Pateley Bridge in North Yorkshire. Cared for by the National Trust, this is a place to wander between giant stones, spot familiar shapes and enjoy views across Nidderdale. The rocks can be explored throughout the year, though car park and visitor facilities have their own opening hours.

How Brimham Rocks were formed

These unusual formations are made largely from millstone grit sandstone. Around 320 million years ago, powerful rivers carried sand and pebbles from mountains to the north and laid them down in a vast delta. The grains, including hard quartz and softer feldspar, became the rock we see today.

Over a very long time, movement of the land, ice, wind and rain wore away the softer layers. During and since the last ice age, weathering helped carve the fantastic shapes that make Brimham Rocks so distinctive.

Spot the named rock shapes

Part of the fun is deciding what each formation resembles. Look out for names such as the Sphinx, the Eagle, the Turtle, the Camel and the Dancing Bear. Idol Rock is especially striking: a great curved stone seems to balance improbably on a much narrower base. Weathering wore down the softer layers, leaving the upper rock balanced on its narrow base.

Walking among the rocks

You can reach some of the best-known formations in around ten minutes on foot from the car park. Give yourself longer if you want to follow the paths across the wider moorland. There are accessible routes to the main rocks, while other ground is uneven and can be slippery when wet. Keep a close eye on children near steep drops and follow the National Trust’s current guidance for dogs and wildlife.

Brimham Rocks on screen

The rocks have a place in popular culture too. The children’s television shows Knightmare and Roger and the Rottentrolls filmed here, and the formations appeared in the video for the Bee Gees’ song You Win Again.

Plan your visit to Brimham Rocks

The National Trust operates a visitor centre, second-hand bookshop and refreshment kiosk, where you can learn more about the landscape. Admission to the site is free, but parking charges apply for many visitors. Opening times for the car park and facilities vary, so check the National Trust’s latest visitor information before travelling.