Simon's Seat
A dramatic rocky outcrop in the Yorkshire Dales offering breathtaking panoramic views and challenging, rewarding hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Simon's Seat
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic rocky outcrop in the Yorkshire Dales offering breathtaking panoramic views and challenging, rewarding hikes.
"The views are absolutely stunning and well worth it."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Paths can be rocky, boggy, and steep. Good hiking boots are essential for a comfortable and safe trek.
🦟 Beware of Midges
In summer, especially near heather, midges can be a nuisance. Pack repellent!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Simon's Seat Summit
The highest point
Massive rock formations offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales. A true natural wonder.
Valley of Desolation
Route from Bolton Abbey
A dramatic, rugged landscape with waterfalls and sweeping vistas, perfect for photography and a sense of wildness.
River Wharfe Views
Along the river paths
Enjoy the serene beauty of the River Wharfe as it winds through picturesque valleys, offering a gentler contrast to the moors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for All Weathers
Choose Your Starting Point Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Paths can be rocky, boggy, and steep. Good hiking boots are essential for a comfortable and safe trek.
🦟 Beware of Midges
In summer, especially near heather, midges can be a nuisance. Pack repellent!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially on a clear day. Bring your camera!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the route, so be self-sufficient for your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Paths can be rocky, boggy, and steep. Good hiking boots are essential for a comfortable and safe trek.
🦟 Beware of Midges
In summer, especially near heather, midges can be a nuisance. Pack repellent!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially on a clear day. Bring your camera!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the route, so be self-sufficient for your hike.
🚗 Parking Tips
Barden Bridge parking is limited and fills fast. Arrive early or consider alternative starting points.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely stunning panoramic views from Simon's Seat, making the challenging hike well worth the effort. The dramatic landscapes, especially the Valley of Desolation and the heather-covered moors, are highlights. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather and potential midges in summer.
"I walked up from Howgill campsite and, although it was only 1.5miles away, the vertical incline was close to 1000ft. So, it’s a fair bit of exercise. Once you get past the tree line don’t be surprised if you start being dive bombed by flies as the nesting birds in the heather do attract a lot beasties.
The views, however, are absolutely stunning and well worth it.
As it is exposed up top, be sure to pack for all weathers as it can change very quickly and there is no cover once you are up there.
I will definitely look to find another walking route to get up there as it is an amazing walk."
Nick Lamming
"Fantastic area for hiking. Especially on a sunny day where you’ll get great panoramic views at the top."
Yew
"Parked at Barden Bridge (free parking for about 10 cars), places go quite quickly
Picked up the Prow along the River Wharfe to Howgills, then up through the forest (steep) to the top of the moors, some of the path is rocky n some easy paths to the top
To reach the top and the trig requires a little bit of scrambling
Returned the same way back 6.5 miles
Definitely worth visiting especially if the weather is good, my visit was a bit claggy"
Mathew Bourne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Simon's Seat is accessible via several walking routes. Popular starting points include Bolton Abbey, Barden Bridge, and Burnsall. You can reach these by car, with parking available at each location, though it can be limited. Public transport options are less direct, often requiring a bus to Skipton or Ilkley followed by a local bus or taxi to a trailhead.
Barden Bridge offers free parking for about 10 cars, but it's very popular and fills quickly. Bolton Abbey also has parking facilities, though it may involve a fee. Some hikers suggest starting from Howgill campsite for a more direct, albeit steep, approach.
While possible, it's challenging. You'd typically take a train to Skipton or Ilkley, then a bus towards the Dales. From there, you might need a taxi or a longer walk to reach a suitable trailhead like Bolton Abbey.
No, Simon's Seat is a hiking destination. You can drive to various trailheads like Bolton Abbey or Barden Bridge and then walk to the summit.
The nearest towns are Skipton and Ilkley. Both offer good access to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and are good bases for planning your trip to Simon's Seat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Simon's Seat itself is part of the open moorland and does not require an entrance ticket. However, if you start your walk from Bolton Abbey Estate, there may be parking fees or entry charges for the estate itself.
As it's an outdoor natural landmark, Simon's Seat is accessible at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The walk to Simon's Seat is free. Parking fees may apply at popular trailheads like Bolton Abbey.
While not as common as for major attractions, local walking groups or outdoor activity providers may offer guided hikes to Simon's Seat. It's worth checking local listings.
No, there is no dedicated visitor center at Simon's Seat. The nearest visitor facilities are typically found at Bolton Abbey.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Many hikers enjoy the circular route from Bolton Abbey via the Valley of Desolation, which is around 18km. Another popular option is starting from Barden Bridge, offering a steep but rewarding climb.
A typical hike to Simon's Seat and back can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen route, pace, and how long you spend at the summit.
The hike involves significant elevation gain and can be steep, especially from certain starting points. Some sections may be rocky or boggy, and reaching the very top might require a bit of scrambling. It's considered a moderate to challenging hike.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, including rolling hills, valleys, and the River Wharfe. On a clear day, the vistas are truly spectacular.
No, there are no facilities at the summit of Simon's Seat. You'll need to use facilities at your starting point, such as Bolton Abbey, before you begin your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit itself offers incredible panoramic shots. The Valley of Desolation provides dramatic landscapes with waterfalls, and the River Wharfe offers serene riverside photography. 
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow over the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of waterfalls. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within the Yorkshire Dales National Park or near nesting birds. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
The weather can change rapidly, leading to challenging lighting conditions. The terrain can also be uneven, requiring careful footing while composing shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be aware that some sections are steep and can be boggy, so sturdy, waterproof footwear for everyone is essential. Consider the length of the hike and your children's stamina. Shorter, less strenuous routes might be more suitable for younger children. Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is crucial, as there are no facilities along the trails.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers
However, it's always wise to inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and estimated return time. Be prepared for all weather conditions, as the exposed nature of the summit means conditions can change rapidly. Carrying a fully charged phone, a basic first-aid kit, and sufficient food and water is essential.
🐶 Dog Owners
The open moorland and varied terrain provide ample space for dogs to explore. However, it's important to keep your dog under close control, especially during nesting season (spring/summer) to protect ground-nesting birds. You may also encounter livestock on some routes, so ensure your dog is well-behaved around other animals. Be mindful of the steep and rocky sections, which might be challenging for some dogs. Always carry enough water for your dog, as there are no water sources along the trails. Poop bags are essential, and it's crucial to leave no trace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Routes and Difficulty
Another well-loved option starts from Barden Bridge, which is shorter but involves a significant and steep incline, making it a good workout. The difficulty of the hike can range from moderate to challenging. Expect rocky paths, boggy patches, and steep ascents. Reaching the very top of Simon's Seat might involve a bit of scrambling. It's crucial to wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for varied terrain.
Some hikers also enjoy routes starting from Burnsall, offering a different perspective of the Dales.
Regardless of the chosen path, the reward is the incredible scenery and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. +1Wildlife and Nature
This is also when nesting birds are prevalent, which can lead to the presence of midges. While a nuisance for some, they are a sign of a healthy ecosystem. Visitors are advised to bring insect repellent during the summer months. The Valley of Desolation lives up to its name with its wild and untamed beauty, featuring waterfalls that cascade down the rocky slopes.
The area is home to various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot other local wildlife. The diverse terrain, from riverbanks to open moorland, supports a range of flora and fauna, making it a fascinating area for nature enthusiasts. Remember that this is a natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to stick to marked paths where possible to minimize their impact and to respect the wildlife and their habitats.
Photography Opportunities
The Valley of Desolation presents a more dramatic photographic subject, with its rugged terrain and cascading waterfalls.
Capturing the movement of water can be achieved with longer exposure times, so a tripod is a valuable piece of equipment. The changing weather conditions can also create dramatic skies, adding to the photographic appeal. Beyond the summit and valleys, the River Wharfe offers serene and picturesque scenes, perfect for capturing the tranquility of the countryside.
Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just enjoy snapping pictures with your phone, Simon's Seat provides ample opportunities to capture memorable images. +1
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