Explore the scenic beauty of Baildon Moor and its surroundings on this 10-mile walk, offering a diverse range of landscapes and picturesque views. Beginning with an ascent to Gilstead Crag, the path leads through Sheriff Lane and Shipley Glen, gradually transitioning from moorland to the urban setting of Baildon. On the way back, enjoy the greenery and leafy vistas that open up over Shipley and Saltaire before following the tranquil course of the River Aire back to Bingley. This journey invites you to appreciate the natural and man-made beauty of the region. It’s a balanced exploration of Baildon Moor and its environs, promising an enriching experience that showcases the multifaceted landscapes of this Yorkshire locale.

Baildon Moor Summit Video
360° panorama view around the trig point stone

Essential info about the walk

Start: Bingley Railway Station

Difficulty: Hard – 4.5 hours – 9.8 Miles

Toilets: There are public toilets on this walk and are located on Myrtle Place (by the market square) in Bingley and on Northgate in Baildon.

Refreshments: there are many shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs in town but below are specifics businesses which we recommend if you go on this walk. Feel free to visit their site and contact them.

Myrtle park

Visit our page about this beautiful urban park in the centre of Bingley! Full of useful information and packed with walking ideas.

Baildon Walkers are Welcome

Like Bingley, Baildon is a Walkers are Welcome town. If you are looking for more walks in that area, please visit their website which has many "DIY" walks.

WaW supporters along the walk

A lovely bakery serving fresh bread and pastries as well as coffees and hot drinks to take away.

This pub is a brand new addition to Bingley town centre. It has replaced the Ferrands Arms but has kept most of its old character and still serve great beers!

A good old fashioned country pub, set on the edge of Baildon Moor on the beautiful Shipley Glen

Map, elevation profile and downloadable files

Where to start?

Bingley Arts Centre

Main Street
Bingley
West Yorkshire
BD16 2LZ

Grid Reference SE 106 390

Unfortunately, we can’t provide the route on an Ordnance Survey Map. Although we have provided digital versions of the track below, we still recommend that you acquire an O.S. Map for backup.

Elevation profile

Elevation profile of self-guided walk Baildon Moor Jaunt

Downloadable files for mapping applications or GPS devices

Find out more about these downloadable files and how to use them

Directions - Baildon Moor Jaunt

Last edited: 5th November 2023

1. Bingley Arts Centre to Gilstead Moor

Commencing at Bingley Arts Centre on Town Square, you'll begin your journey by facing away from it and heading towards Main Street. Safely cross the road at the pedestrian crossing and make your way down the charming cobbled lane adjacent to The Library Tap. As you continue, the railway station will come into view at the lane's end. Turn right onto Wellington Street, directing your steps towards the Aldi supermarket. Upon reaching the street's opposite side, approach the supermarket entrance, then follow the side of the building towards the Bingley 5 Rise Taxi. Proceed left on Dubb Lane, which seamlessly transitions into Ferrand Street. Cross the slip road using the pedestrian crossing, walk over the bridge spanning the Fred Hoyle Way bypass, followed by the bridge spanning the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, bringing you to Britannia Street. 

Wander up Britannia Street towards the convenience store, then cross Mornington Street. Take a right turn and immediately veer left onto Percy Street. Continue uphill, making a right onto Belgrave Road and in the corner formed by Belgrave Road and Stanley Street, a sign for a footpath behind a house will guide you. Ascend the cobbled path, and exercise caution as it may be slippery. At the summit, a kissing gate awaits. Stay on the cobbled path, exiting it between two houses onto Crownest Lane. Cross the road to reach the opposite pavement, then proceed right. Beyond the final terraced house, Morbottom Lane will appear on your left. Follow it, ascending the path amidst houses and gardens. Although the path narrows, you'll soon emerge onto a broader one—continue uphill.

At the path's zenith, a pathway and bridleway sign will direct you left. Traverse the path, which runs alongside a wooden fence (watch for mud). Upon reaching the top, veer right, taking care of any low-hanging branches. The scenery transitions from wooded to moorland, marking your arrival at Gilstead Moor. Ascend the path further, turning left at the path junction, and then veer right at the top where another path intersection awaits. Keep ascending, and before long, you'll feel on top of the world. On clear, pleasant days, the views are truly remarkable. Take a well-deserved break, capture some photographs, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Bingley Arts Centre

Bingley Arts Centre is located on Town Square

Path near Crownest in Bingley

This cobbled path is in the Crownest area of Bingley

Walker Enjoying the View above Bingley - Photo Credit: Marcus Rattray

Enjoying the View from Gilstead Moor - Photo Credit: Marcus Rattray

Sunset over Bingley from Gilstead Crags

A fantastic sunset from Gilstead Crags with Bingley in the foreground

A glimpse of Baildon Moor from Gilstead

Baildon Moor in the background from the junction of Gilstead Lane and Primrose Lane

2. Gilstead Moor to Primrose Lane

Once you're prepared to continue your journey, follow the path leading toward a prominent communication tower in the distance. The panoramic views of Bingley continue to captivate, and before long, you'll spot a substantial rock formation looming overhead – this is Gilstead Crags. Positioned behind it stands the communication tower. Keep to the path, veering left as it guides you toward an extensive open meadow. As you continue along the path, it gently descends, running parallel to a wooden fence that borders a housing estate.

Upon reaching the path junction at the path's base, take a left turn, passing in front of a Yorkshire Water building (an old pumping station). You'll soon transition from Gilstead Moor into a residential neighbourhood, specifically Rombalds Drive. Continue uphill until you arrive at the intersection with Pendle Road, then make a right turn. Follow the descent along Pendle Road, eventually arriving at Gilstead Lane. Turn left onto Gilstead Lane, staying on the left-hand side pavement. As you proceed, your destination becomes St. Wilfrid's Church in the distance. After passing the church, you'll encounter an intersection with Primrose Lane. Beyond the playground, in the distance, your first glimpse of Baildon Moor should appear. Carefully cross the street and enter Primrose Lane.

3. Primrose Lane to Sheriff Lane via Milner Field Estate

Continuing your journey down Primrose Lane, keep an eye out for a Blue Plaque affixed to one of the houses on the right-hand side. This plaque marks the birthplace of Sir Fred Hoyle in 1915, a renowned astronomer credited with coining the term 'Big Bang.' As you proceed past the house, the street unfolds, leading you toward a bend adorned with a regal black iron gate.

With caution, cross the road and step through the door on the right-hand side of the gate. Here, you'll notice North Lodge on your right, but please be mindful that this is private property. You're now entering the former Milner Field Estate, once owned by the Salt family during the 19th century. Titus Salt Junior, the son of the illustrious industrialist who founded Saltaire, constructed the Milner Field Manor. Today, all that remains are some ruins, tucked away amidst the trees to the right of North Lodge.

Begin your descent along Higher Coach Road, a notably wide pathway that once served as the primary access route to the manor. Nature has since reclaimed this entire area, and it's worth noting that the path has suffered some wear and tear, with certain sections lacking proper drainage. However, this rustic charm adds to the overall allure of the journey.

As you approach the first bend, instead of continuing along the downward path, make a left turn, leading you toward another path that ascends over the hill. This particular path, running parallel to the estate called Sparable Lane, was historically flanked by towering walls, effectively restricting access to the estate grounds for the 'common' people. Upon reaching the end of this path, you'll seamlessly merge onto Sheriff Lane.

Sir Fred Hoyle Blue Plaque in Gilstead

This Blue Plaque can be found on the cottage where Sir Fred Hoyle was born in Gilstead

North Lodge at Milnerfield

Gate and entrance to the Milnerfield estate from North Lodge

Lode Pit Lane

Lode Pit Lane with Sheriff Farm in the background

Loadpit Beck Bridge

Loadpit Beck Bridge between Saltaire Road and Shipley Glen

Glen Road with Baildon Moor in background

Glen Road runs along Shipley Glen at the bottom of Baildon Moor

Baildon Moor Summit

View from Baildon Moor Summit from the Trigpoint stone

4. Sheriff Lane to Baildon Moor summit

Turn left onto Sheriff Lane, being vigilant of occasional cars that may cross your path. As you make your way forward, you'll notice the sprawling expanse of Baildon Moor on your right, stretching across the fields. Continue past Gilstead Lane on your left, and once you spot Sheriff Farm to your right, you'll soon arrive at an intersection. Here, take a right turn onto Lode Pit Lane. The initial stretch of this lane may be somewhat muddy, but as you approach a sharp left bend, you'll transition onto a smoothly tarmac road, flanked by a row of houses to your right. Keep on this road, and after a while, it will begin to descend, eventually leading you to another intersection. Take a right onto Saltaire Road, following the meandering path of a small river known as Loadpit Beck on your left. Before long, you'll cross the river via a stone bridge.

The path will then ascend once more, eventually branching into three directions. Opt for the right-hand side path, which runs alongside the river below. Along this route, you'll pass by a few substantial rocks before arriving at an expansive, open, and cleared area. This is Shipley Glen, a geological formation shaped at the conclusion of the Ice Age when glaciers melted, likely marking the top of a vast waterfall in ancient times.

Directly ahead lies Glen Road, and in the backdrop, you'll spot Baildon Moor (or Baildon Hill), your upcoming destination. Before venturing across the road, we recommend turning right, your gaze fixed on a dry stone wall situated on the opposite side. As you draw nearer, a pathway sign pointing the way to Baildon Moor will come into view. Exercise caution as you carefully cross the road; on the other side, the pathway should be well-defined amidst bracken and heather. Crossing earlier could make traversing through the vegetation quite challenging.

The initial segment of the pathway remains relatively flat, but before long, the ascent commences. Take occasional breaks as you ascend and, don't forget to glance behind you, as the panoramic view on a sunny day is truly remarkable! During your ascent, you'll approach the edge of Dobrudden Caravan Park, where the path follows alongside a dry stone wall. Beyond the wall, you'll reach a path intersection, complete with a welcoming bench should you need to rest. Feel free to take a break or continue up the path towards the summit. Initially, you'll cross a track, and then the final stretch of the ascent awaits before you reach the summit! Upon reaching the summit of Baildon Moor, you'll discover a triangulation pillar (also known as a trig point), two benches, and a toposcope (or orientation table). The vistas from this vantage point are breathtaking, particularly towards Leeds, which you can clearly distinguish on the horizon. So enjoy the moment, have a good break up there and when you are ready to go again, keep walking on the path passing a small pond on your left. Soon you will see Baildon down the hill.

5. Baildon Moor summit to Baildon town

Continuing your descent down the hill, the landscape gradually shifts from the rural moorland to a more urban environment. On your left, the sprawling Baildon Golf Course stretches across Bingley Road, accompanied by a series of reservoirs. To your right, the fringes of urbanization from Baildon town begin to emerge. Keep walking until you reach Hawksworth Road, with the Baildon Moor Golf Club House on your right. Exercise caution when crossing the road here, and proceed straight ahead into the field. Look for a path across the field, veering slightly to the left. Follow this path while keeping your focus on the last house in the row to your right. The path will gradually veer right until you arrive at Moorside, a tarmac road. Although typically quiet, be mindful of local traffic along Moorside. As you continue along this road, it will start a sharp descent. Upon reaching the first left bend, instead of staying on the road, be on the lookout for a path on the right, just off the road. Soon, you'll come to a path intersection with a large gate in front and a small gate to the right. Choose the narrow right path through the small gate, being cautious of the steps leading to it. After a short walk, you'll arrive at a common green area with Baildon RUFC (Rugby) and Baildon CC (Cricket) grounds on your left, separated by a stone wall. Traverse the common towards the playground at its far end. Make a right turn onto Jenny Lane and proceed to its conclusion, where you'll reach Northgate. Carefully cross the road at the intersection. You'll notice the local public toilets nearby, which you're welcome to visit if needed.

Note: Baildon Public Toilets are available for use free of charge. In a scenario akin to several other public toilets in the district, they were on the verge of closure. However, in 2017, Baildon Town Council stepped in to oversee their operation and maintenance, with the invaluable assistance of local volunteers. Thanks to these efforts, the toilets have remained open ever since. You'll find some delightful murals inside, making them well worth a visit!

Continue your walk by heading down Northgate towards the roundabout and the heart of the town. As you explore, you'll discover numerous spots where you can stop for refreshments if you wish. Many of these establishments should proudly display the recognizable 'Walkers are Welcome' badge in their window fronts. After passing the bus stops, make your way across The Grove and shortly thereafter, make a right turn onto Westgate.

Note: Opposite Westgate, you'll come across a rather peculiar column known locally as the 'Potted Meat Stick'. Originally erected as a water fountain in 1862, it earned its nickname from the pink hue adorning the column.

Pond at the top of Baildon Moor

This pond at the top of Baildon Hill is a small heaven for the wildlife

Views at the top of Baildon Moor

The urban landscape is sprawling as you walk down Baildon Hill

Baildon Potted Meat Stick

The Potted Meat Stick at the centre of Baildon town with Westgate

View of Baildon from Bank Walk

Bank Walk bears some great views of Baildon and the rest of the valley

Baildon Bank

View of Baildon Bank, a former quarry

Shipley Glen Tramway

Top entrance at Shipley Glen Tramway on Prod Lane

6. Baildon town centre to Shipley Glen

Westgate boasts numerous establishments proudly adorned with the 'Walkers are Welcome' logo, so don't hesitate to pay them a visit if you're in need of a break. As you approach the top of Westgate, make a left turn onto Bank Walk, avoiding Delph Hill on your left. When you reach the next intersection at Bank Crest, veer right to remain on Bank Walk. At the conclusion of this charming lane, you'll encounter a footpath on your right, running along the back of the terraced houses' gardens. This vantage point offers some splendid views of Baildon and the entire valley. Follow the footpath until you arrive at Salisbury Avenue. On your left, you should spot a sign indicating a footpath that descends toward a flight of steps. Exercise caution while descending, as the steps are uneven.

At the first zig-zag, instead of continuing downward, turn right, leaving the steps behind and venturing onto a narrow path. You'll soon encounter a broader pathway that gently ascends, marking your entry into Baildon Bank, a former quarry with spectacular views. As you continue along this path, the renowned Salt Mills will gradually emerge before you. Although the path may be a bit rugged in places, it leads you through a sequence of wooded areas, followed by cleared-out spaces and moorland, creating a captivating and diverse walk.

The path will ultimately reach a wider track. Take a left turn, embarking on an ascent through a wooded area. At the summit of the hill, the path parallels a series of houses for some time. Continue until you reach a path junction, where you should make a right turn. Soon, you'll find yourself positioned above The Shipley Glen Tramway. Established on 18th May 1895, it provided access to a long-gone fairground and it now holds the title of Britain's oldest working cable-hauled tramway. It has been run by volunteers as a charity since 2002.

After the tramway, continue your journey on Prod Lane up until you reach Shipley Glen again. There, you should find the Old Glen House.

Note: The Old Glen House is a traditional pub and a great place to stop for refreshments. It is one of Baildon Walkers are Welcome supporters. Perfect location for a break on this long walk.

6. Shipley Glen to Bingley Arts Centre

Go at the rear of the Old Glen House pub on Shipley Glen and follow the footpath behind the pub, which will lead you through Trench Wood. At a path junction, keep left and head downhill until you reach Higher Coach Road. Here, you'll find an information board about the area, and just across the road, there's a bus stop. Cross the road and follow the path through the open field within the housing estate. In the distance, you'll spot a metal tubular bridge. Cross the River Aire via the footbridge, and once on the other side, continue straight up the path until you reach the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, with Hirst Lock in front of you. Turn right onto the canal towpath, heading toward the swing bridge just behind Hirst Lock. Cross the swing bridge and, immediately afterward, turn right into the car park.

Proceed to the kissing gate at the end of the car park and enter Hirst Wood. Ascend the hill and follow the footpath within Hirst Wood for about 750 yards. When you reach the river, turn left and pass under a three-arch railway bridge. Continue with the river on your right until you reach the rear of Bankfield, where you'll walk between two tall walls, away from the river. When you see the river again, the path will pass under the Bingley Relief road flyover, and shortly afterward, you'll encounter a wooden bridge over Cottingley Beck. Continue on this route until you reach the Bradford & Bingley Rugby Club fields. Stay on the footpath running along the River Aire, but be cautious as it can become slippery and muddy after heavy rainfall.

During this segment of the walk, you'll pass an unusual stone-built bridge that carries water supply pipes across the river, part of the Yorkshire Water Nidd Aqueduct. The path continues alongside the River Aire until you eventually reach Cottingley Bridge. Here, you'll find a narrow opening marked as a footpath within the parapet of the bridge. Ascend the steep steps, cross Bradford Road carefully, and proceed straight along Beckfoot Lane.

Note: Stop for a coffee and a bite at the Bridge Bakery & Barista located on your left on Beckfoot Lane!

Beckfoot Lane lacks a dedicated pavement, so exercise extra caution as you share the road with oncoming traffic. You'll walk alongside Shipley Golf Course for a while, and when you reach the tennis club, a path will soon appear on your right, nestled between allotments and a football pitch. At the conclusion of this path, you'll cross the River Aire once more, entering Myrtle Park. Head towards the playground and Skateboard park, passing the bowling green on your left. Take a moment to appreciate the sight of Bingley Town Hall in the distance and the scenic gardens. Exit Myrtle Park through the main gates.

After you pass the swimming pool on your left and the Lidl Supermarket on your right, make your way toward Myrtle Place and Myrtle Grove, heading in the direction of the town center outside Bingley Arts Centre, where your walk initially commenced.

Note: At the end of your walk, why not stop at one of the many establishments available in the town centre. We recommend going to the Market Square Tavern.

Path in Trench Wood

This path in Trench Wood runs from Shipley Glen to Higher Coach Road

Walkers in Hirst Wood

Hirst Wood is a beautiful area to walk through

Bankfield Path near Cottingley

A lovely path running at the back of the Bankfield estate

Crocus Flowers in Myrtle Park Bingley

Comes Spring time and Myrtle Park in Bingley gets covered with lovely crocuses flowers

Top of Myrtle Park in Bingley

View of the top of Myrtle Park in Bingley on a lovely morning

Ilkley Moor Walk

Try our other walk going to this other famous iconic moor in our area - singing "On Ilkla Moor Baht 'at" is optional.

Hard Walks in Bingley

Looking for something a bit more challenging? Maybe a training walk for your next Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge? Take a look at our range of hard walks!

More info about Baildon Moor

Which Ordnance Survey Maps for the Baildon Moor Jaunt Walk?

The Explorer Ordnance Survey (O.S.) map for Bingley is Explorer 288 Bradford & Huddersfield - East Calderdale. Bingley and Baildon are located in the top left corner on one side. This map will include Baildon Moor and Shipley Glen.
Ordnance Survey - 288 Map

"Bradford & Huddersfield - East Calderdale" 288 Map - Cover and Back

The Friends of Baildon Moor

The Friends of Baildon Moor is a voluntary organisation dedicated to the conservation of Baildon Moor, a much loved and popular open common bordering Rombalds and Ilkley Moor in Yorkshire. The challenge it faces is supporting a multitude of often competing outdoor activities without damaging this precious community space.

How big is Baildon Moor?

Baildon Moor and Shipley Glen is a great place for walkers as most of it is classified as Open Access, meaning there is no restriction to walk within the designated area. That's 739 acres (299 hectares) of moorland (Baildon Moor), including an area of woodland with a stream (Shipley Glen). It's highest point is the summit of Baildon Hill and its trig point which stands at 282m.

Can you park on Baildon Moor and Shipley Glen?

If you can't do this walk and would still like to visit the area, yes you can park there. There are different designated car parks in the area:

  • Upper and Lower Eaves on Hawksworth Road
  • Pennythorn Hill on Bingley Road
  • Three areas on Shipley Glen
  • Several lay-bys on Glen and Bingley roads.

It is illegal to park elsewhere. This damages the moorland and is a nuisance to other users.

Are dogs allowed for a walk on Baildon Moor?

Yes, you can! However, during the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1st March to 31st July) it is highly recommended that you keep your dog on a short lead (defined as less than 2m). Also dog fouling will not be tolerated (bag it and then bin it) and will result in a fixed penalty fine of £80.

More Information

Please note: Bingley is a dog friendly place and many establishments will gladly accept your four legged friend

Have you done this walk yourself? Don't hesitate to give us some feedback by leaving a comment below!

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