SD7782 : The World's most rickety stile.

Blea Moor

535m Elevation
112m Prominence
England Country
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SD7782 : The World's most rickety stile.

Steve Partridge Photo source

Overview

Blea Moor

Nestled in the idyllic Yorkshire Dales, Blea Moor offers a delightful adventure for those seeking an escape into the great outdoors. Standing at a respectable 520 meters, this Marilyn is often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Whernside and Ingleborough. But don’t let that fool you; Blea Moor has plenty to offer!

Geology

Blea Moor's limestone foundation contributes to its rugged terrain, peppered with rocky outcrops and intriguing karst formations. As you climb, take note of the fascinating geological features that define this landscape.

Access

Getting to Blea Moor is relatively straightforward. The nearest parking can be found along the Hawes Road, where you can squeeze your car into a few available spots. If you’re relying on public transport, be prepared for a bit of a trek from the nearest bus stop in Hawes, especially if the bus schedule looks like Swiss cheese.

The Route

The most common route ascends directly from the Hawes Road, taking about 2 hours to cover a respectable 4.5 kilometres. The path is well-marked, so you won’t need to don your treasure map skills unless you’re feeling adventurous.

Summit Features

Upon reaching the top, you'll be greeted by a trig point that commands the perfect photo opportunity, ensuring your friends know you’re not just on the couch eating biscuits. The rocky summit provides a fantastic perch to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Views

Blea Moor is rightly praised for its views; on a clear day, you’ll be treated to sights of the Yorkshire Dales stretching endlessly ahead. The best times to climb are in the spring and early autumn when wildflowers bloom and the scenery is simply breathtaking.

Hazards

While the path is generally navigable, keep a sharp eye out for boggy patches that can be a bit slippery. Remember, the Yorkshire Dales might be picturesque, but they can also be a bit cheeky!

Facilities

If your adventure leaves you peckish, head back to Hawes where several lovely cafes serve up tasty treats and hot beverages to refresh your weary legs.

In summary, Blea Moor is an underappreciated gem in the Yorkshire Dales. So grab your walking boots, pack a sandwich, and make your way to this delightful summit.

Happy hiking!

Explore routes near Blea Moor

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Pen-y-ghent from Horton in Ribblesdale

10.1 km ~3h 50m Hard

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Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – Gentle Pace

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Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – Sub-12 Hour

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Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – Gentle Pace

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Blea Moor from the Hawes Road

A straightforward ascent from the Hawes Road that follows a well-defined path leading up to the summit, with stunning views along the way.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Dodd Dewey

Elevation

535m

1,755 ft

Prominence

112m

Coordinates

54.2385, -2.3503

SD772825

OS Map

98

Explorer: OL2W

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point that stands proudly as a beacon for the lost souls of hikers who can’t find their way back. The area is strewn with a few craggy stones that add character.

Terrain & Geology

Predominantly grassy with rocky outcrops and some boggy patches particularly after rainfall.

Blea Moor is primarily composed of limestone, which gives rise to its characteristic rocky outcrops and unique karst landscapes. The karst formations make for intriguing hiking conditions, featuring sinkholes and subtle hollows.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, including the nearby peaks of Whernside and Ingleborough.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Blea' derives from the Old Norse word for 'blue', which could refer to the colour of the moorland heather or the sky seen from the summit.

Historical Significance

Blea Moor has historical significance as part of the ancient trade routes used for sheep farming, a backbone of the local economy.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the roadside near the Hawes Road, with space for around 5-6 cars. Ensure not to block access for farmers.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service operates from Hawes, roughly 6 km from Blea Moor. Note that services may be limited, especially on weekends.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on Blea Moor, but Hawes has several cafes, pubs, and toilets for pre- or post-walk refreshment.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Boggy patches can be treacherous, especially after rain, and the rocky outcrops may be slippery. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear to avoid unexpected splashes.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Blea Moor?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Blea Moor through the maps

Are there other walkers around Blea Moor?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Blea Moor search or of course create your own walk for Blea Moor

Can I organise a walk to Blea Moor?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Blea Moor.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Blea Moor?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Blea Moor here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Blea Moor location map

Grid reference: SD772825

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Whernside

Whernside

737m

 Ingleborough

Ingleborough

723m

 Pen-y-ghent

Pen-y-ghent

694m

The Calf

677m

Nine Standards Rigg

662m
See 5 more nearby hills