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Top 10 Landmarks in the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve

A perfect reason to linger longer in the South Pennines. With iconic gritstone edges, peaceful wetlands and dramatic moorland across ten linked nature sites, the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve makes it easy to turn a day trip into a weekend.

STAY & EXPLORE

Bradford district offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, holiday lodges, and serviced apartments.

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The Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve is a vast 3,000‑hectare landscape of moorland, woodland, wetlands and canal‑side paths stretching from the upland moors around Ilkley, through the wild landscapes above Haworth and across to Bingley, before following the valley toward Shipley and up onto the hills around Baildon and beyond. It’s one of the UK’s newest nature reserves — a place to wander, spot wildlife, enjoy sweeping Pennine views and experience a wild, open landscape right on the edge of the city.

Discover ten must‑see spots that showcase the best of the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve:

1️⃣ Cow & Calf Rocks (Ilkley Moor)

Iconic gritstone formations with huge views across Wharfedale — a classic starting point for any Pennine escape.

2️⃣ White Wells (Ilkley)

A historic 18th‑century spa bath perched high on the moor, offering one of the best viewpoints in the district.

3️⃣ Twelve Apostles Stone Circle (Ilkley Moor)

A prehistoric stone circle sitting on the high plateau — atmospheric in any weather and ideal for longer moorland wanders.

4️⃣ Baildon Moor Trig Point

A classic moorland landmark with sweeping views over Airedale and the wider South Pennines.

5️⃣ Shipley Glen Rocks & Tramway

Gritstone edges, boulders and woodland paths paired with the heritage charm of Britain’s oldest working cable tramway (seasonal). A brilliant mix of nature and nostalgia.

6️⃣ St Ives Estate (Harden Nr. Bingley)

A peaceful lake surrounded by woodland trails, sculptures and wildlife — perfect for a relaxed wander or family visit.

7️⃣ Five Rise Locks (Bingley)

One of the most impressive canal engineering feats in the country. Watch boats navigate the dramatic staircase locks or enjoy a scenic towpath walk.

8️⃣ Bingley North Bog (next to the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, near Five Rise Locks)

A unique peatland habitat supporting specialist wildlife and showcasing the importance of moorland restoration.

9️⃣ Trench Meadows (SSSI)

A rare wetland just off Higher Coach Road, beside Load Pit Beck and close to Shipley Glen, this 4.7‑hectare lowland meadow is one of the Pennines’ hidden gems—rich in distinctive plants and birdlife.

🔟 Penistone Hill Country Park (Brontë Country)

Rugged moorland with views towards Haworth and the landscape associated with Wuthering Heights. A must‑visit for photographers and Brontë fans.

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⭐ Why It’s Perfect for a Stay & Explore Break

• So many landscapes in one place — moorland, woodland, wetlands, canal heritage
• Easy to build your own adventure: pick one area or combine a few
• Great cafés, pubs and places to stay nearby
• Ideal for walkers, families, photographers and nature lovers
• Plenty here for a full day — or a whole weekend

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Accessibility & Getting Around

The Bradford Pennine Gateway offers a mix of paths and landscapes, and many areas include gentler routes, clearer signage and quieter spaces that can suit different access needs. Everyone experiences the outdoors differently, so checking local route details before you set off can help you choose the places that feel right for you.

Good public transport links — including trains and buses to Ilkley, Bingley, Saltaire, Haworth and surrounding villages — make it easy to explore the Gateway without a car. Many stops are close to trailheads, parks and canal paths, so you can travel in a way that suits your pace.

Slow down, stay a little longer, and explore the Bradford Pennine Gateway National Nature Reserve at your own pace.  Always stick to the countryside code: #RespectProtectEnjoy.

Ready to explore further? Find more walking routes and inspiration across the Bradford district.