• Breathtaking Views

  • Perched on Ilkley Moor, the rocks provide spectacular views over Ilkley and the Wharfedale valley. On clear days, you can see miles across the Yorkshire Dales, making it a popular spot for photographers and sightseers.

• Rock Climbing and Bouldering

  • The Cow and Calf Rocks are a well-loved destination for rock climbing and bouldering, with routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Local climbing groups often visit, and climbers enjoy the challenge and unique landscape that these ancient rocks provide.

• Walking and Hiking Trails

  • The area around the Cow and Calf Rocks is rich with walking trails, including paths leading up Ilkley Moor and beyond. You can enjoy a gentle stroll around the rocks or a longer hike across the moorland for even more stunning vistas.

  • Popular routes include the hike to the Swastika Stone, an ancient carved rock further up the moor, and the Ilkley Moor Circular Walk, which offers views and stops at points of interest.

• Local Legend and History

  • The rocks are steeped in local folklore. According to legend, a giant named Rombald created the rocks when he stepped on the Calf while fleeing his angry wife, who was throwing stones at him.

  • The Cow and Calf Rocks also hold a place in literary history, as Ilkley Moor is famously referenced in the Yorkshire folk song, "On Ilkla Moor Baht 'at."

• Nature and Wildlife

  • The area is a haven for wildlife, with birdwatchers often spotting curlews, grouse, and other moorland birds. The nearby heather-covered moorland also provides a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, especially during late summer when the moor blooms in purple heather.

• The Cow and Calf Hotel: Located right near the rocks, this historic pub offers hearty meals, snacks, and a cozy spot to relax after a day of exploring. With outdoor seating, you can enjoy a drink with a view of the iconic rocks.

• Ilkley Town: Just a short distance down the hill, Ilkley is known for its charming shops, cafes, and the famous Betty’s Café Tea Rooms. Ilkley also has a lovely riverside area and the historic Ilkley Lido, a perfect spot to visit in the summer.

General Information

• Ilkley Moor (National Trust): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ilkley-moors
  Information about the Ilkley Moor area, including Cow and Calf Rocks, walking routes, and conservation efforts.

• Visit Ilkley: https://www.visitilkley.com
  A local tourism website with details about Cow and Calf Rocks and the surrounding Ilkley area.

Attractions and Nature

• Cow and Calf Rocks Information (Yorkshire Dales National Park):https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/visit/places-to-visit/cow-and-calf-rocks
  Learn more about the geological features of Cow and Calf Rocks and the surrounding landscape, with information on hiking and things to do.

• Ilkley Moor Walks (Walking Englishman): https://www.walkingenglishman.com
  A guide to various walks around Ilkley Moor, including the Cow and Calf Rocks route.

• Ilkley Moor (UK Walking Guides): https://www.ukwalkingguides.com
  A detailed guide for walking routes on Ilkley Moor, highlighting Cow and Calf Rocks.

Local Attractions and Activities

• Ilkley Tourist Information Centre: https://www.ilkley.org
  Information on local attractions, including Cow and Calf Rocks, and other things to do in Ilkley.

• Ilkley Country Walks: https://www.ilkleycountrywalks.org.uk
  Explore walking trails in and around Ilkley, including the Cow and Calf Rocks area.

• Ilkley Golf Club: https://www.ilkleygolfclub.co.uk
  For those looking for nearby golf options, this historic golf club is located close to Ilkley Moor.

Transportation and Access

• Ilkley Train Station (National Rail): https://www.nationalrail.co.uk
  Travel information for getting to Ilkley by train, with easy access to Cow and Calf Rocks via bus or a short walk.

• First Bus West Yorkshire (Bus Services): https://www.firstbus.co.uk
  Local bus routes serving Ilkley, including those that travel to the Cow and Calf Rocks area.

• Ilkley Moor Car Park (Ilkley District Council): https://www.ilkley.gov.uk
  Information on car parking for visitors to Ilkley Moor and Cow and Calf Rocks.

Accommodation

• The Cow and Calf Hotel: https://www.cowandcalf.co.uk
  A historic hotel located right next to the Cow and Calf Rocks, offering stunning views and comfortable accommodation.

• The Dalesway Hotel: https://www.dalesway.co.uk
  A cozy hotel located near Ilkley Moor, providing easy access to Cow and Calf Rocks.

• Ilkley Moor Self-Catering Cottages: https://www.peakdistrict.cottages
  Book a self-catering cottage near Ilkley Moor for a more immersive countryside experience.

Food and Drink

• The Cow and Calf Inn: https://www.cowandcalfinn.co.uk
  A local pub offering hearty meals and drinks with views of the Cow and Calf Rocks.

• The Ilkley Brewery: https://ilkleybrewery.co.uk
  Sample local beers brewed in the Ilkley area, close to the moorland.

• Betty's Café Tea Rooms (Ilkley): https://www.bettys.co.uk
  Famous for its afternoon tea, Betty’s in Ilkley is a perfect stop after exploring Cow and Calf Rocks.

Local Resources

• Ilkley Moor Conservation (National Trust): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
  Information on conservation efforts for Ilkley Moor, including Cow and Calf Rocks.

• Ilkley Literature Festival: https://www.ilkleyliteraturefestival.org.uk
  An annual literary festival held in Ilkley, perfect for those interested in arts and culture after exploring the moor.

• Ilkley Tourist Information Centre: https://www.ilkley.gov.uk
  A valuable resource for visitors looking for additional local information, maps, and advice.