Climbing & Bouldering in the Yorkshire Dales

The limestone scars and grindstone crags provide a challenge to climbers of all abilities.

The Yorkshire Dales has some very diverse climbing available. With so many of the Yorkshire fells toped with gritstone outcrops and crags there is never any danger of over crowding. Renowned as having some of the best limestone climbing in the country, with the likes of Kilnsey Crag and its challenging overhang, Malham Cove, and Gordale Scar. Most of these offer a number of routes and can give a full and enjoyable day.

The gritstone crags of Yorkshire are very similar to those found in the Peak District, though generally less crowded.

Although climbs can be found to meet all abilities, much of the most impressive climbing is classified as Red (advanced) - suitable for experienced rock climbers.  There is trad climbing which provides some mid-grade classics as well as some fearsome test pieces. The sport climbing begins at grade 5+ and keeps on-going upwards to 8 and beyond...

These routes aren't for the faint hearted, stamina is needed in abundance as many of the routes are up steep, overhanging, and bulging walls.


The highlight of climbing in the dales tend towards the 'big three' of Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Kilnsey Crag some of the most impressive in Britain. They provide some of the best hard sport climbing to be found any where in Europe. 

• Malham is one of the best limestone crags in the country with great mid-grade trad routes to top grade sport climbing - the setting is in a magnificent natural amphitheatre which faces south and dries quickly

• Gordale Scar an impressive gorge with towering cliffs, and a tumbling waterfall at its heart. Classic trad climbs such as 'face route' as well as harder sport climbs up some sustained overhanging walls

• Kilnsey the overhanging profile of this crag has to be seen to be believed. Routes start at 6c upwards, and are the best to be found anywhere at their grade.

There are now over 600 bolt protected routes in the Yorkshire Dales with over 200 being at grades below F7a.  However, the bulk of the climbing remains traditional in style, from Twisleton type favourites to long scary adventures at Gordale and Blue Scar.

The crag of Giggleswick South (near Settle) and Robin Proctor Scar (near Clapham) provide easier mid-grade sport climbing in the region. Gigglewsick is especially popular because it is quick drying and catches the sun though parking is very limited.


You should note that peregrines regularly nest at Malham Cove and other limestone crags around- bird restrictions may be in place restricting climbing on some sections of cliffs. We advise you review the situation before visiting  from information the BMC crag data base 
Cycling is a lovely way to explore the area either as part of a visit or a touring holiday.  You get to see more and feel more in touch with the countryside around you, and you can be fully justified in stopping for a slab of cake or a pint of locally brewed beer.  What’s more you will be helping to protect this wonderful area by moving around in a sustainable way.

Any effort in climbing hills is always rewarded with fantastic views of the Dales landscape, and if you need to walk that’s no problem.  Just take your time and enjoy the wonderful surroundings