Stanza Stone Poetry Trail
📍 Ilkley LS29 9RF, UK
About Stanza Stone Poetry Trail
Explore the enchanting Stanza Stone Poetry Trail, a unique artistic and natural attraction nestled in the picturesque landscape of Ilkley. This trail invites visitors to discover thought-provoking poetry carved into magnificent gritstone rocks, blending creativity with the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales.
The trail offers a memorable experience, guiding walkers through beautiful spots, including the iconic Cow and Calf rocks. Visitors frequently praise the trail for its inspiring concept and serene surroundings, contributing to its excellent Google rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. While the original poetry postbox is currently missing, visitors continue to leave their own verses, creating an evolving tribute to nature and expression.
Visiting Information
The Stanza Stone Poetry Trail is an outdoor attraction. Please note that the entrance is not wheelchair accessible. As a natural trail, there are no specific payment requirements or official opening hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the walk at their leisure.
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📍 Ilkley LS29 9RF, UK
from 29 reviews
Google Reviews
Reviews from Google Maps.
Showing 5 of 29 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 6 February 2026.
Beautiful sheltered spot but the postbox for poems has sadly gone
Really disappointed that the poetry postbox has disappeared. People have still left their own poems in the gap, held down by stones. Hopefully it will get replaced. It's also the start/ end of the Stanza Stone trail and has quite a few stone benches to sit on. Lots of stunning scenery around.
Absolutely love the cow and calf. Finding the little post box brought me great joy. Then unfortunately after placing the letter in for my late boss, I discovered the letterbox had gone. Some disrespectful people about. This visit cheered me up though as someone has placed a plastic box there. I love reading the letters people have left.
Peaceful spot for a sit down, really nice view and hidden away. Poem box worked well, was stiff, but quite amusing when you get it going and get one poem out each turn! Some plastic bags inside which were snagged, got them out and then it turned ok, Some really good poems in there! Glad we visited.
Lovely place to take a rest after the long ascent as of right now I couldn't get the poem box to turn but deposited a poem none the less. Lots of sheep and grouse so make sure you have your dog on a leash. Truly an awe-inspiring view and if anything will get you in the poetry mood it's this walk.