Simon's Seat
Good walks are even better shared.
Explore routes near Simon's Seat
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Malham Landscape Trail: Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove
View route
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Circular
View route
Pen-y-ghent from Horton in Ribbonsdale
View route
Ingleborough from Clapham
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Barden Bridge Route
Starting from Barden Bridge, this popular route meanders through lush woodlands and ascending grassy slopes, perfect for a memorable hiking experience.
Howgill Lane Route
A more leisurely path that provides a gentle ascent to the summit, often used for family walks and enjoying a picnic at the top.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
485m
1,591 ft
Prominence
102m
Coordinates
54.0342, -1.8810
SE078598
OS Map
104
Explorer: OL2S 297 298
At the Summit
The summit boasts a rocky outcrop with a distinctive viewpoint, providing a stunning spot for a boil-up of a cup of tea. No trig point, but the views are the real deal!
Terrain & Geology
Simon's Seat is primarily composed of limestone, shaped by glacial activity, providing a rugged terrain with exposed rocky outcrops. The surrounding area features interesting karst landscapes with limestone pavements.
Views & Scenery
Panoramic views of the Wharfedale valley, with iconic peaks such as Buckden Pike and the nearby hills of the Yorkshire Dales on display.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Simon's' may be derived from a historical or personal name, while 'Seat' often refers to a position or vantage point, indicating an elevated place to sit and admire the views.
Historical Significance
Simon's Seat has been a popular spot for local walkers for generations, becoming a pillar of the local hiking community.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
The nearest parking is available at Barden Bridge, where there is a small car park suitable for hikers.
Public Transport
Buses run to the town of Skipton, which is close to Barden Bridge. Check local schedules for the best routes.
Nearby Facilities
No facilities at the summit, but Grassington offers cafes, shops, and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Occasional loose rocks, particularly in wet weather. Paths can be slippery, so proper footwear is essential.
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 Simon's Seat?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Simon's Seat through the maps
Are there other walkers around Simon's Seat?
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 Simon's Seat search or of course create your own walk for Simon's Seat
Can I organise a walk to Simon's Seat?
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 Simon's Seat.
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 Simon's Seat?
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 Simon's Seat 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
Comments
Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: SE078598
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Nearby Hills
Rombalds Moor [Ilkley Moor]
402m
Buckden Pike
702m
Pen-y-ghent
694m
Pendle Hill
557m
Ingleborough
723m
No comments yet. Be the first.