Beamsley Beacon
Ascend Beamsley Beacon for breathtaking 360° views of the Yorkshire Dales, a rewarding hike with iconic trig point.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lambs and blooming bluebells
Beamsley Beacon
Best Time
Lambs and blooming bluebells
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Beamsley Beacon for breathtaking 360° views of the Yorkshire Dales, a rewarding hike with iconic trig point.
"The views from the top are breathtaking, not so good however on a day like this one though!!!"
Wear sturdy boots! :athletic_shoe:
The paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Conditions can change quickly on the moors. Pack layers and be prepared for wind and rain, even in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit of Beamsley Beacon
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lower Wharfedale, Ilkley Moor, and beyond. A true reward for your climb.
Trig Point
Summit
The iconic trig pillar marks the highest point, perfect for a sense of accomplishment and a classic photo op.
Wildlife Spotting
Surrounding Moors
Keep an eye out for lambs in spring and diverse birdlife. The natural beauty is a significant draw for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Essential Gear for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy boots! :athletic_shoe:
The paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Conditions can change quickly on the moors. Pack layers and be prepared for wind and rain, even in summer.
Bring a flask of tea :tea:
A hot drink at the summit is a popular treat after a hike, as noted by many walkers.
Dog-friendly trails :dog:
Many visitors bring their dogs, but be mindful of livestock and keep them on a lead when necessary. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy boots! :athletic_shoe:
The paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Conditions can change quickly on the moors. Pack layers and be prepared for wind and rain, even in summer.
Bring a flask of tea :tea:
A hot drink at the summit is a popular treat after a hike, as noted by many walkers.
Dog-friendly trails :dog:
Many visitors bring their dogs, but be mindful of livestock and keep them on a lead when necessary.
Sunrise magic :sunrise:
An early start for sunrise offers a unique and peaceful experience with stunning light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Beamsley Beacon for its breathtaking panoramic views and the rewarding nature of the walk. It's highlighted as an accessible yet impressive hike, perfect for day trips and enjoying the Yorkshire Dales' natural beauty. Some find the paths can be muddy, and weather can be unpredictable, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beamsley Beacon is accessible by car, with parking available in lay-bys near Langbar or from Addingham village. Public transport options are limited, but buses run to nearby Ilkley and Addingham, from where you can start your walk. +1
Popular starting points include lay-bys along the B6160 near Langbar for a direct ascent, or from Addingham village for a slightly longer route. Ilkley Moor also offers access to the area.
Yes, there are several lay-bys along the B6160 road that offer convenient parking for walkers. These are often the most direct access points.
While direct public transport to the summit is scarce, you can take a bus to nearby towns like Ilkley or Addingham and then begin your walk. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules.
Yes, various routes exist, from short ascents to longer circular walks incorporating surrounding areas like Ilkley Moor or Burnsall. Many are well-defined paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beamsley Beacon is a natural landmark and part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
Beamsley Beacon is open to the public at all times. Access is unrestricted, allowing for visits at any hour, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Absolutely! Beamsley Beacon is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a rewarding hike and stunning views within a few hours.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are expected to respect the natural environment, follow the Countryside Code, and be mindful of livestock.
Yes, visiting Beamsley Beacon itself is completely free. Any costs would be related to your transportation to the area.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
A direct ascent from a nearby lay-by can take around 30-60 minutes, depending on your fitness level. Longer circular routes will take considerably more time.
The walk is generally considered moderate. The ascent can be steep in places, but the paths are usually well-defined. Shorter routes are easier than longer, more challenging ones.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales, including Ilkley Moor, Lower Wharfedale, and on clear days, even Pendle Hill.
There are no facilities such as toilets or cafes directly at the summit. It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies with you.
Yes, Beamsley Beacon is excellent for photography, especially during sunrise, sunset, or when the moorland is in bloom. The expansive views offer numerous photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities at Beamsley Beacon itself. However, nearby villages like Addingham and Ilkley offer a range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
Yes, a picnic is a great idea! Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food and drinks to savor while taking in the views from the summit.
Skipton, a nearby town, has a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs to more contemporary eateries, catering to different tastes and budgets. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Clear days provide the best visibility for panoramic shots.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the Yorkshire Dales, close-ups of the trig point, wildlife, and atmospheric shots of the moorland, especially with changing weather.
The summit with its trig point is a prime spot. The ridge leading to the Old Pike also offers excellent vantage points. The surrounding moorland provides varied backdrops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current rules and guidelines for flying drones in national parks and ensure you have any necessary permissions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on the beacon. Encourage children to look out for wildlife, such as sheep and birds, which can add an extra layer of engagement to the walk. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy. A picnic at the top is a classic family activity that makes the outing even more special.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Adventurers
+1For those looking for an even more unique experience, an early morning sunrise hike offers a truly magical and peaceful start to the day, often with very few other people around.
It's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans, carry a fully charged phone, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, even on familiar routes. The sense of accomplishment and the stunning vistas make it a highly fulfilling solo excursion. 🐶 Dog Owners
+1 It's important to be mindful of livestock, such as sheep, that graze on the moors, and to keep dogs under close control or on a lead in areas where they might disturb animals. Be aware that the terrain can be muddy, especially after rain, so ensure your dog is comfortable with such conditions. Bringing water for your dog, as well as for yourself, is essential. The expansive views make it a great place for dogs to enjoy a good run and for owners to capture some memorable photos of their pets against a stunning backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Beamsley Beacon Walk Experience
+1Upon reaching the summit, the reward is immediate: panoramic views that stretch across the picturesque Lower Wharfedale, the expansive Ilkley Moor, and on exceptionally clear days, even as far as Pendle Hill. The iconic trig point at the summit serves as a natural focal point and a popular spot for photos. Many hikers enjoy taking a break here, perhaps with a flask of hot tea, to soak in the scenery and the sense of accomplishment.
+1For those seeking a longer adventure, Beamsley Beacon can be incorporated into more extensive circular walks, often linking up with routes across Ilkley Moor or exploring the surrounding countryside. These longer treks can offer a more immersive experience of the Yorkshire Dales, but require more planning and stamina. Regardless of the route chosen, the Beamsley Beacon walk promises a memorable outdoor experience with breathtaking natural beauty.
+1Best Times and Conditions for Visiting
This season often offers milder temperatures, making for a pleasant hike. However, it's crucial to be prepared for unpredictable showers. Late afternoon often provides the most photogenic light, with the 'golden hour' casting a warm glow over the moors and valleys. This time can also see fewer crowds than midday, offering a more tranquil experience. Autumn brings its own beauty, with the heather and bracken turning vibrant shades of purple and gold, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
+1Winter visits can be dramatic, with potential for frost or snow, but also carry the highest risk of harsh weather. Checking the weather forecast meticulously before setting out is paramount for safety and enjoyment. Sturdy footwear and appropriate layers are essential year-round due to the exposed nature of the terrain.
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