Spectacular views from the top of Ilkley Moor in West Yorkshire are worth the effort.
If you’re a beginning hiker like myself, this walk is good practice. You can opt to do any of the walks on the Friends of Ilkley Moor website but you can also do your own thing and moderate the walk slightly. Whatever you do, make sure to download a copy of the map and instructions to take with you. Phone service will be sketchy so even a paper copy can come in handy. Myself and a friend completed a moderated version of the cow and calf hike. The route should take about an hour or so but our moderated version took just over 2 hours.
Why you’ll enjoy this hike:
For the cow and calf hike, you start at the visitor car park and walk immediately uphill towards the old quarry. It’s worth stopping and taking a look inside as the rocks are quite impressive. The cow and calf route will take you in sort of a skewed figure 8 around the moor. The instructions from their website linked below are helpful along with the map so that you don’t get lost. One benefit of this hike is that for the most part the paths are either paved or well trodden. The views from the top are amazing and you can see quite far over the town of Ilkley and the hills beyond. But what really stands out about this hike is the stones you’ll pass.
Ilkley Moor points of interest:
This is where we deviated from the route and took a further wander down to The Twelve Apostles Stone Circle. Think of it as a miniature version of Stonehenge. We also headed to the highest point of the moor marked by a pillar with a dial carving on top and then back down the moor to rejoin the cow and calf route. We went along the Stanza Stone Poetry Trail where you’ll find what looks like half a hut with stone benches and a little poetry letterbox. If you have a pen and paper you can submit your own and take one. We continued down this trail until the path crosses the initial walk up and then we went around the back of the quarry past the Stanza Stone Beck. All these points are pinned on Google Maps if you’re interested in checking them out before you go.
When to go:
We did this hike at the end of January when the weather was sunny and not rainy. Bear in mind that with it being moorland you’ll find decent size puddles along the route. Prepare to get your shoes a tiny bit wet but be aware there are some large patches you can’t easily avoid. Its also very windy at the top of the moor, remember to bring your gloves and hat! Layers and a waterproof are key in case you need to add or remove items.
What to pack:
Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers suitable for the weather conditions, including a lightweight, breathable top, a waterproof jacket, and possibly a hat and gloves if it's chilly.
Backpack: Bring a small backpack to carry your essentials and keep your hands free during the hike.
Water: Carry an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Snacks: Pack lightweight, energy-boosting snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, or fruit.
Navigation Tools: Bring a map of the trail or use a GPS device or smartphone app to navigate if necessary.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's UV rays, especially during sunny weather.
First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Whistle: Bring a whistle for signalling in case of emergencies.
Phone: Carry a fully charged mobile phone for communication and emergency purposes. If you're going alone, ensure you have a signal or let someone know where you're going.
Camera or use your phone: Capture the scenic views and memorable moments along the trail.
Trash Bag: Pack a small trash bag to carry out any litter and leave no trace behind.
Personal Identification: Carry a form of personal identification in case of emergencies.
Optional: Trekking Poles: Depending on your preference, consider bringing trekking poles for added stability and support.
Final thoughts:
I would definitely do this hike again one day in warmer weather and take a different route to the one I did before. Personally, I am prone to very tight muscles in my lower legs which makes walking uphill challenging. If you’re like me then I recommend a good leg warm up before going. The views were wonderful and made the effort worth it.
Useful Link:
Friends of Ilkley Moor
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