Fields and Fell Beck trail from Brimham Rocks
This gentle and easy walk through meadows, pastures and woodland leads you to Fell Beck before meandering back towards the Brimham Rocks visitor centre. Along the route, you'll be able to take in sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and stop to marvel at rock formations such as Idol Rock and the Dancing Bear.
Total steps: 3
Total steps: 3
Start point
Brimham Rocks car park, grid ref: SE 2085 6458
Step 1
From the Brimham Rocks car park, go down the road you came in on but, before reaching the public road, turn right down the track marked 'Private Road to Druids Cave farm'. Stay on this track for about 1 mile (1.5km; about 20 minutes) then, shortly before it ends as a private drive, look out for a footpath gate to the left.
Step 2
Go through the gate and continue down the footpath and on through the gate at the far end. Turn right, and shortly after you'll reach a stone stile. Continue on the winding way through the woods. Where a signpost points back to Smelthouses, bear left down the path to Fell Beck. There's a bridge on your left and a stile to your right. Cross the stile and head up the track through fields, staying near the left-hand boundaries of each, until after the fourth gate when you should follow the right-hand boundary wall to reach a step stile over the wall ahead of you. Go over the step stile then bear diagonally left across the field through a gate to a track. Turn right on the track and in 80 yards (75 metres) take the footpath to the right across the field and through a gate. Turn left and you'll see the gate leading onto a track about 55 yards (50 metres) further on.
Step 3
Continue straight on the track for about 440 yards (400 metres) to where there's a National Trust boundary sign. On your right is a path heading back and upwards through the trees – follow this path up through a gulley and when you reach a fork bear right. Follow this path, looking out for panoramic views on your right. Stop to marvel at Idol Rock, then after 80–90 paces look back to your right to see the Druids Writing Desk. Continue on the path and look out for the Dancing Bear near to the back of the visitor centre. From the visitor centre you can meander gently back down through the rocks to the car park.
End point
Brimham Rocks car park, grid ref: SE 2085 6458
Trail map
More near here
Circular walk at Brimham Rocks
This short walk will show you the highlights of Brimham from the dramatic rock formations, to the heather moorland.
Moorland and meadows walk at Brimham Rocks
Explore the diverse landscapes around Brimham Rocks, home to a wide range of pondlife, plus wild cotton and waist-high bracken.
Monks' walk from Brimham Rocks to Fountains Abbey
Walk in the monks' footsteps from Brimham Rocks to Fountains Abbey, following an ancient trail with views from Riva Hill to Brimham Rocks.
Brimham Rocks boundary walk
Enjoy a circular walk around the boundary of Brimham Rocks and discover panoramic views of the Yorkshire countryside.
Get in touch
Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 4DW
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Walking in Yorkshire
Discover some of the best walks in Yorkshire, from rugged Pennine beauty spots, views over the coast, to parkland and meadows perfect for a family stroll. Most are dog friendly and many can be enjoyed as part of your day out to the nearest National Trust property.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Eating and drinking at Brimham Rocks
Looking for some refreshment during your visit to Brimham Rocks? You can find a selection of food and drinks at the refreshment kiosk open Wednesday to Sunday 10am - 3pm (3.30pm on weekends). Every bite of a sausage roll or crunch of an ice-cream cone helps to protect this special place.
Exploring Brimham Rocks
From rocks to moorland, Brimham Rocks offers a host of different of features for visitors. Take a look at the highlights of what you might see on your next visit.
Outdoor activities at Brimham Rocks
There are plenty of ways to explore Brimham Rocks, from walking and cycling, to orienteering and geocaching. Discover the outdoor activities on offer.