Your accessible visit to Brimham Rocks

Accessible resin bonded paths at Brimham Rocks — There are accessible paths winding through the main rocks. | © Annapurna Mellor

Brimham Rocks with its spectacular rock formations and panoramic views across Nidderdale has attracted visitors from far and wide for centuries. The landscape that we care for presents challenges in creating access for all, but we have taken steps to ensure that as many people as possible are able to experience Brimham Rocks.

Accessible routes and paths

Brimham Rocks by its nature can present challenges in creating access for all. Parts of the site have steep gradients and mixed terrain but much of the site is still accessible to all visitors - Some of the most iconic rock formations can be viewed just a ten minutes’ walk from the car park.

There are several routes leaving the car park. The most accessible one follows the main vehicle track between the car park and the visitor facilities. A smooth, stable footpath branches from this main track and winds through the main rocks.

Take a look at our full access statement here

Take a look at our access map here

Free Personal Mobility Scooters (PMV) hire

We have two Tramper style mobility scooters available to hire free of charge. Whether you’re a comfortable and experienced user or you’ve never used a PMV or wheelchair before, our friendly Welcome Team will be on hand to help. The mobility scooter route follows the smooth, stable footpath that winds through the main rocks. They can also access the moorland but please note that the ground is very uneven and we do not recommend attempting this in wet weather.

Despite there being availability most days, we recommend advance booking to avoid disappointment. Call us on 01423 780688 to book your date, all we need is a booking name, approximate arrival time and some contact information.

Visitors using mobility scooters at Brimham Rocks — Visitors using mobility scooters | © Trevor Ray Hart

Facilities and toilets

Toilets are found behind the kiosk.

There's one accessible toilet up a small ramp next to the ladies toilet. This toilet has a fixed hand rail to the left and a pull down hand rail to the right, artificial lighting, automatic hand driers and a changing table.

Quieter moments

Popular with geologists, naturalists, climbers, walkers, and families, some days can be busier at times. We want Brimham Rocks to be a place where visitors can come and spend some quiet time connecting with nature as well as exploring, climbing and playing. If you’re searching for a quieter visit to connect with nature, history or yourself, here are some top tips:

Visit during the week
School holidays and bank holidays are always busier days. If you’re looking for a quiet visit on these days, visit early in the day or later in the afternoon. We tend to be much quieter after 3pm.
Take the lesser trodden paths. Follow the quieter paths through the moorland, experience a flood of purple heather in the summer and a haven of calm in the winter.
Noise cancelling headphones can be borrowed from the Welcome Hut in the car park to help visitors with autism, sensory processing disorder, or anyone who thinks they'd benefit from them during a visit.