Brimham Rocks are a collection of weird and wonderful balancing rock formations on Brimham Moor in North Yorkshire, England. The rocks stand at a height of nearly 30 feet in an area owned by the National Trust. That is part of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The area was recognized as being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1958. The natural spectacle was created by a river 100million years BEFORE the first dinosaurs walked the earth. The different rock formations are caused by Millstone Grit Being eroded by water, glaciation, and strong wind.
Many formations are unbelievably formed amazing shapes. There are extensive views of the rocks jutting above woodland from North West as well as 360° views of the nearby countryside and beyond. Many of the rock outcroppings reach over 30 meters into the sky, and the protected Brimham Rock area covers more than 400 acres.
Brimham Rocks landscape is an untouched heathland north of Summer-bridge that has been drained for agricultural improvements and large-scale forestation. The strangely shaped rock formations tower over heather moorland, offering panoramic views across Nidderdale and to the Vale of York.
The area covers approximately 1.66km² weathered to create dramatic shapes. And this site where the landform is higher, drier, and cloaked in species such as heather and bilberry. Let your imagination run wild as you explore the labyrinth of paths through this unique landscape.
Many formations required some imagination to call. So, different formations have been named from various angles. Like Sphinx, Pivot Rock, The Watchdog, Cannon Rock, The Camel, Idol Rock, The Turtle, and Dancing Bear. The site has been filmed in various movies.
In June 2018 an act of vandalism caused a rock to fall from the top of one of the crags and damage the crag’s face. On lower lying land, the ground is wetter and several springs form small streams that meander through the wetland scrub.
Across the Brimham Rocks natural clumps of birch, and woodland has been allowed to regenerate remaining naturalistic and wild. Thousands of tourists flock to the spectacular landmark every year to see the weird and wonderful shapes sculpted by wind and ice over millions of years.
In the summer season, the heather flowers turn the moorland purple, attracting bees and butterflies. This intriguing landscape is like no other you will have seen. The area is an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) managed by the National Trust and open to the public all year round.
It is easily accessed by a network of public footpaths including the Nidderdale Way. There are many choices of activities available, from regular guided walks and climbing days to family trails to make your own adventures. The site is open typically from 8 a.m. until dusk.
Hence entry is free but car parking is charged for visitors who are not members of the National Trust. Brimham Rocks make a great day out for families, climbers, walkers, and those wanting to enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh air and magnificent views.
Also Read: Wave Rock, A Strange Rock Formation in Australia
