Coldstones Cut
Yorkshire's highest public artwork, a dramatic stone sculpture offering panoramic views over Nidderdale and a working quarry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Coldstones Cut
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yorkshire's highest public artwork, a dramatic stone sculpture offering panoramic views over Nidderdale and a working quarry.
"A spectacular artistic installation with a terrace overlooking the quarry, well worth a stop to learn something and see interesting views."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and can be rocky. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
It can be windy and chilly at the top, even on a cloudy day. Dress in layers! :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Winding Stone Sculpture
The main artwork
A dramatic, winding stone walkway offering unique perspectives of the quarry and valley.
Panoramic Nidderdale Views
Top of the sculpture
Sweeping vistas across the Yorkshire Dales, showcasing the vastness of the working quarry.
Working Quarry Insights
Along the sculpture path
Educational boards detailing the quarry's history, minerals, and environmental management.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Climb, Stunning Views
Art, History, and Nature Combined
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and can be rocky. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
It can be windy and chilly at the top, even on a cloudy day. Dress in layers! :cloud:
Free Parking Available
Look for brown signs at the lime kiln for the free car park. HG3 5BJ is the postcode. :car:
Picnic Spot Ready
There are picnic tables available, perfect for a post-walk snack with a view. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path is steep and can be rocky. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
It can be windy and chilly at the top, even on a cloudy day. Dress in layers! :cloud:
Free Parking Available
Look for brown signs at the lime kiln for the free car park. HG3 5BJ is the postcode. :car:
Picnic Spot Ready
There are picnic tables available, perfect for a post-walk snack with a view. :sandwich:
Understand the Art
Read the information boards to appreciate the history and environmental context of the sculpture. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Coldstones Cut for its spectacular artistic installation and breathtaking panoramic views of Nidderdale and the quarry. Many find it a unique and educational experience, appreciating the free entry and the opportunity to learn about the area's industrial heritage. However, the steep and rocky path can be challenging for some, and the artistic meaning of the sculpture is not always clear to everyone.
"Lovely views. Nice little walk not too much oh a hard walk if you take ylur time. Nice bits to read for infortmation at the top. Quarry looks beautiful. Parking can be limited when busy on sunny weekends."
hannah horsman
"Very spectacular artistic installation with a terrace overlooking the quarry. There's a rich history of this place as well as a showcase of environmental awareness of the quarry management.
Well worth a stop to learn something and see interesting views.
Parking is free, you need to walk up a bit. Not really well suited for wheelchair users as the path is rocky."
Piotr Paczuski
"Very interesting stone sculpture. There's a good steep walk-up, but the views are fantastic. You can actually see down into the quarry which is still working"
John Sadler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coldstones Cut is located in Nidderdale, Yorkshire. From the free car park (postcode HG3 5BJ, look for brown signs at the lime kiln), there's a steep footpath climb of about 500 meters to reach the artwork.
Yes, free car parking is available at the Coldstones Cut car park.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Coldstones Cut directly. It's best accessed by car.
The walk up to the sculpture is described as a good steep walk or steep incline, so be prepared for a climb.
The postcode for Coldstones Cut is HG3 5JQ. The car park postcode is HG3 5BJ.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Coldstones Cut is completely free to visit, including parking.
As an outdoor public artwork, Coldstones Cut is accessible at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for the best experience and safety.
No, tickets are not required as Coldstones Cut is a free public art installation.
The path is rocky and has a steep incline, making it not well-suited for wheelchair users.
Dogs are generally welcome in the Yorkshire Dales, but please ensure they are kept on a lead, especially near the quarry edge and wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Coldstones Cut is Yorkshire's highest and largest public art installation, a unique stone sculpture offering panoramic views over Nidderdale and a working quarry. 
Visitors can explore the winding stone artwork, enjoy spectacular views of the Nidderdale valley, and learn about the history and environmental aspects of the Coldstones Quarry.
Kids often enjoy the unique art installation and the expansive views. It's a great spot for them to explore and imagine.
The quarry is over 100 meters deep, offering a dramatic and impressive scale when viewed from the artwork.
There are picnic tables available, but no other facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic lines of the sculpture against the vast quarry and Nidderdale landscape. The panoramic views are stunning, especially on a clear day.
Yes, it can be quite windy at the top, so ensure your camera is secure and consider a tripod for stable shots.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light for landscape photography, but the views are impressive throughout the day.
Drone usage may be restricted due to the proximity of a working quarry and potential wildlife. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the scale of the sculpture. A sturdy tripod is advisable due to wind. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rocky path might be tricky for strollers, older children will likely enjoy the novelty of walking through the stone structure and looking down into the impressive quarry. It's a great opportunity to talk about art, nature, and industry in a visually engaging way. Remember to pack snacks and dress for the weather!
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Combine your visit with other walks in the Yorkshire Dales for a full day of exploration. The educational aspects of the quarry also appeal to those interested in geology and industrial history. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
🎨 Art and Architecture Aficionados
+1Beyond the sculpture itself, the context of its placement above a working quarry adds another layer of interest. The information boards provide valuable insights into the artist's intentions and the quarry's significance, making it a rich experience for those who appreciate the intersection of art, engineering, and environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Installation: Coldstones Cut
+1While the artistic intent might be open to interpretation, the sheer scale and design are impressive. Information boards are strategically placed around the site, providing context about the quarry's history, the minerals extracted, and the environmental considerations of its operation. This blend of art and industrial heritage makes for a thought-provoking visit.
Many visitors find the experience visually captivating, even if they don't fully grasp the artistic meaning. The interaction of the sculpture with the landscape, particularly the deep, active quarry below, creates a powerful and memorable scene.
Exploring the Yorkshire Dales from Coldstones Cut
+1The artwork is situated directly above the active Coldstones Quarry, a massive limestone quarry that adds a unique industrial element to the natural landscape. The contrast between the sculpted stone of the artwork and the raw, excavated earth of the quarry is striking. Visitors can observe the quarry's operations from a safe distance, gaining an appreciation for the scale of the work involved.
This location is a fantastic starting point for exploring more of the Yorkshire Dales. Nearby attractions like Stump Cross Caverns offer further adventures underground, and charming villages like Pateley Bridge provide opportunities for a traditional Yorkshire pub lunch.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Given its exposed location, the weather can change quickly. It's advisable to check the forecast and dress in layers, as it can be windy and cooler at the top, even on a pleasant day. Bringing water and snacks is also a good idea, especially as there are no facilities on-site, though picnic tables are provided for those who wish to dine with a view.
While the steep and rocky path makes it challenging for those with mobility issues, many visitors have noted that even those with mobility scooters have managed the climb. The educational boards offer insights into the quarry's history and environmental management, adding an educational layer to the visual experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit