Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor]
Good walks are even better shared.
SE1145 : Footpath repairs
John Illingworth Photo source
Explore routes near Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor]
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Silsden to Kildwick Canal Walk
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Saltaire to Bingley Five Rise Locks
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Skipton to Gargrave Canal Walk
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Golden Acre Park Arboretum and Lake
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Ilkley Moor Circular Walk
This popular route starts at the Cow and Calf Rocks, a famous local landmark, and leads up to Ilkley Crags. The trail takes walkers across the open moorland of Rombalds Moor, offering sweeping views of the Wharfe Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass the Twelve Apostles stone circle, a fascinating prehistoric feature, before looping back to the starting point.
The Dales Way Link to Ilkley Moor
This route starts in Ilkley town centre, following the Dales Way Link up to the moor. It passes through woodland and ascends gently onto the open moorland. The route leads to White Wells, a historic spa building with fantastic views, before continuing to the Cow and Calf Rocks and returning to Ilkley via a different path.
Rombalds Stride Challenge Route
For those looking for a longer challenge, this route follows the path of the annual Rombalds Stride event. Starting in Guiseley, it traverses the entire expanse of Rombalds Moor, passing the Trig Point at the summit and the Twelve Apostles. The route ends in Ilkley. This is a demanding but rewarding hike for experienced walkers.
Addingham to Ilkley Moor Circular
This scenic circular walk starts in the village of Addingham and ascends onto the western edge of Ilkley Moor. It provides stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales and the Wharfe Valley. The route passes the Swastika Stone, an ancient carving, before looping back through fields and woods to Addingham.
Keighley Gate to Ilkley Moor Ridge Walk
This linear route begins at Keighley Gate and follows the ridge of Rombalds Moor. It takes in the high points of the moor, including the Trig Point and Twelve Apostles, before descending to the Cow and Calf Rocks. This route is ideal for those who want to focus on the ridge and enjoy panoramic views.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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SE1145 : Footpath repairs
John Illingworth
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SE1145 : Trig Point Benchmark
DAVID JOHN SHERLOCK
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SE1145 : Causeway on Ilkley Moor
Stephen Craven
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SE1145 : View from Ilkley Moor to Menwith Hill
Stephen Craven
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SE1145 : Trig pillar, Rombald's Moor
David Brown
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SE1145 : Rombalds Moor trig point 402m/1,306'
John H Darch
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SE1145 : Trig pillar and cairn on Ilkley Moor
Stephen Craven
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SE1145 : Rombalds Moor Trigpoint
Andrew Whale
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SE1145 : Rombalds Moor trig point
John Slater
SE1145 : Rombalds Moor trig point
Christine Johnstone
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
402m
1,321 ft
Prominence
246m
Coordinates
53.9031, -1.8269
SE114452
OS Map
104
Explorer: 297
At the Summit
The summit boasts a large granite trig point along with stunning views of the surrounding valley, making it a perfect photo-op.
Terrain & Geology
Primarily composed of gritstone, Rombalds Moor features classic moorland geology, with remnants of glacial activity evident in its rugged terrain.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the distant peaks of the Yorkshire Dales as well as the spires of Ilkley below.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Rombalds Moor's name is believed to originate from Rombald, a legendary giant associated with local folklore, suggesting its significance in local mythology.
Historical Significance
This area has historical importance with prehistoric rock carvings and evidence of ancient settlements, making it rich in cultural heritage.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
Ilkley Car Park, which offers ample parking space and is within walking distance to the paths leading up to Rombalds Moor.
Public Transport
Ilkley railway station provides regular services from Leeds, making it easy to access the area without a car.
Nearby Facilities
In Ilkley, there are several cafes, pubs, and public toilets available for hikers before or after their trek.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Uneven and potentially slippery ground, particularly in wet conditions. Boggy areas may also pose a challenge.
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 Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Rombalds Moor [Ilkley 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 Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor] search or of course create your own walk for Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor]
Can I organise a walk to Rombalds Moor [Ilkley 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 Rombalds Moor [Ilkley 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 Rombalds Moor [Ilkley 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 Rombalds Moor [Ilkley 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
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: SE114452
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