As a Lancashire lad born and raised, I always feel a small spark inside when Yorkshire people proudly call their land “God’s own county”.
But after recently standing on top of Simon’s Seat and taking in those breathtaking views, I have to admit… it’s becoming harder and harder to argue with them.
From the summit of Simon’s Seat, you get one of the most incredible viewpoints over the stunning Yorkshire Dales countryside, and the peak is famous for its striking millstone grit rock formations that rise dramatically from the top. 🌄
With plenty of trails leading up to the peak, on our last visit we discovered a quieter route that not many people know about… and honestly, I just had to share it with you.
And the best part? There’s a free parking spot nearby. Now that’s what we call a proper win. 🚗
Plus, if you’re still full of energy after reaching Simon’s Seat, you can keep the adventure going with extra trails around the area, including the path that leads to the incredible Valley of Desolation waterfall. A true must-visit spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. 🌿
What is Simon’s Seat?
Even though Simon’s Seat stands at just 485 metres above sea level, it still remains one of the most popular peaks in the Yorkshire Dales for hiking lovers.
Anyone who takes on the short but steep climb to the top is rewarded with stunning panoramic views that make every step worth it.
Simon’s Seat sits in the beautiful Wharfedale Valley and is located on the private grounds of the Bolton Abbey Estate. 🌄
The famous dry stone walls scattered across the Dales create a beautiful pattern across the rolling moorlands, almost like pieces of a giant puzzle spread over the hills.
Even though there are no official public footpaths on the fell itself, walkers can still hike up the slope because the land is classified as access land, which allows entry for recreation and outdoor exercise. 🌿
Why is it called Simon’s Seat?
The name “Simons Seat” was first recorded in the year 1771, and since then several theories have appeared about how this unusual name came to be.
One idea suggests the rocky peak was simply named after the owner of the estate, much like the nearby hills known as Lords Seat and Earls Seat.
Another story shared in 1838 by the traveler Frederick Montagu tells of a shepherd who discovered an abandoned infant on the summit and later named the child Simon.
Meanwhile, the nineteenth century historian Henry Speight believed the peak may once have been a place for ancient druid gatherings, and that it was named after the well known biblical figure Simon Magus, who was often called Simon the Sorcerer. 🌄
Where do you park to walk Simon’s Seat?
Even though Simon’s Seat sits within the Bolton Abbey estate, we honestly would not recommend parking at the main Bolton Abbey car park, as the parking fees in recent years have become quite expensive.
Instead of starting your walk from there, there are several alternative routes that lead to Simon’s Seat, and one of our favorite starting points is from Barden Bridge.
The route from Barden Bridge is peaceful, less crowded, and incredibly scenic, and the best part is that it offers free parking. Just keep in mind that spaces are limited, so arriving early is definitely the smart move. 🚗🌿
You will often spot a Yorkshire Dales ice cream van parked nearby too, which honestly feels like the perfect little reward waiting for you after finishing the climb. 🍦
Simon’s Seat walk
Distance: 6 miles
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting point: Barden Bridge, 6AT, Dales Way, Skipton
Simons Seat Walk Step by Step Guide
From the car park, walk past Barden Bridge without crossing it, then head through the gate directly ahead marked “Bolton Abbey”. From there, follow the riverside path for a short distance until you reach Barden Aqueduct. 🌿
When you spot the footpath sign for “Coney Warren access point,” turn left and climb the steep hill. Keep going straight, and at the top, hop over the stiles to cross the field and reach the country road ahead. 🌾
Cross the road, climb over the ladder stile right in front of you, and follow the footpath uphill towards Lower Fell Plantation. 🌿
Follow the signs for Simon’s Seat, and the trail will veer to the right here, soon becoming quite overgrown and a bit untidy. 🌱
To stay on the right path, keep close to the trees on your left and follow the dry stone wall all the way past the plantation, until the trail eventually bends right and leads up to Simon’s Seat. 🌿
Climb up to the summit and soak in the breathtaking Yorkshire panoramas stretching out all around you! 🌄
After reaching Simon’s Seat
If you’re just visiting Simon’s Seat and don’t want to explore further, you can simply retrace your steps back along the same path.
Alternatively, instead of going back through the overgrown Lower Fell Plantation, you could take the zig-zag path down to Howgill Lane and continue onto Stangs Lane, then enjoy a scenic stroll back to the car park along the beautiful Dales Way riverside path. 🌿
On your return, when you reach the fork at Lower Fell Plantation, take the tarmac lane on your right down to Howgill Farm if you’d rather skip the left turn up the overgrown plantation path.
Top tip – if you’re the adventurous type and want to explore more after conquering Simon’s Seat, you absolutely have to head over to the stunning Valley of Desolation waterfall. Keep an eye out – a full guide is coming soon! 🌊
How long of a walk is Simon’s Seat?
If you’re starting your walk from Barden Bridge, the round trip to Simon’s Seat is about 6 miles, which should take roughly two and a half hours at a steady pace.
And if you decide to extend your adventure to include the Valley of Desolation, expect to add another 2 to 3 miles to your hike. 🥾
Is Simon’s Seat a mountain?
Even though the climb to Simon’s Seat feels pretty challenging, it’s not technically classed as a mountain.
A mountain is defined as a landform that rises at least 610 metres above sea level, and Simon’s Seat, while impressive, comes in at 485 metres.
But as they say – it’s not always about the size! 🌄
Top tip – if you’re after a bigger challenge in the Yorkshire Dales, try tackling some of the National Park’s most iconic peaks: Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. 🥾
Can you walk dogs to Simon’s Seat?
No dogs are allowed on the Barden Fell and Barden Moor access areas, including Simon’s Seat and the Valley of Desolation, so you’ll need to leave your four-legged friends at home for this adventure.
While it may be a bit controversial, the Bolton Abbey Estate introduced this ban to protect the many birds that nest in the area from being disturbed. 🐦
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