National Trust - Brimham Rocks

A National Trust site full of unusually formed rocks - great fun for kids.

Picture Mount Everest; as crazy as it sounds, over 400 million years ago, a large mountain range just like the Himalayas stood not far from where Brimham Rocks now stands. Over time, powerful erosive forces slowly wore them away creating a river delta the size of Yorkshire. These sands were later compacted beginning the long process of shaping the rocks into their current forms.

The rocks

Fast forward millions of years; the rocks, newly exposed became prey to ice and sand-blasting winds, carving away at them, leaving behind the range of other-worldly shapes you see today. From the Smartie Tube, Castle Rock, to the Druid’s Writing Desk and the Idol, the rocks now fascinate and inspire thousands of people every year. Borrow an information pack from our welcome cabin or join one of our geology walks. If you’re interested in climbing the rocks, why not book onto one of our frequent Outdoor Days, run throughout the year by Harrogate Climbing Centre.

The moorland

Brimham Moor is an important heather moorland habitat. It is classified as a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) due to its globally significant plant life. Managing the moorland is a full-time job for our team of rangers to conserve the three varieties of heather found here. Looking forward we are seeking to introduce cattle to parts of the moorland to assist in controlling the birch which threatens this rare habitat and the wildlife that lives here.

The people

People have been drawn to Brimham Rocks for well over 200 years by the bizarre rocks. In the mid-18th century it was declared that the rocks had been made by druids. Myths and legends such as this made Brimham a popular destination for Victorians, particularly with the arrival of the railways. Refreshments were available from Brimham House which had been built by Lord Grantley in 1792 for the ‘accommodation of strangers’. Various other buildings came and went through the 20th century until the National Trust took over in 1970. The monthly Brimham through the ages walks can give you further insight into the site’s history.

Parking charges

Car park open dawn to dusk every day (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

Pay & display (coins only). Car park £6.50 for 4 hours, £10 per day. Minibuses £12 (booking essential), motorhomes £12, coaches (booking essential) £15-20, motor cycles £3. National Trust members free.

Although we do charge for parking the good news is that we don’t charge for admission so you only pay per vehicle so that helps to keep your costs down. We are a charity so the money raised from parking help us to look after Brimham Rocks for future generations to enjoy.

Opening Times

Please note our opening times change throughout the year and those listed on this page refer to the countryside. Until further notice, the shop, visitor centre and refreshment kiosk are closed.

Facilities

• On-Site Parking
• Pets Accepted
• Child Friendly
• Outdoor
• Annual Pass