Bridestones, Crosscliff and Blakey Topping

The Bridestones is a moorland nature reserve on the North York Moors, reached on foot from a car park at the edge of Dalby Forest. Its Jurassic-era sandstone rock formations stand out against the heather, and the surrounding reserve also has ancient woodland and wildflower-rich meadows to explore. The walk from the car park climbs through woodland before opening onto the moor, and the ground is uneven and steep in places, so it suits families with children who are comfortable on rough paths; boots are a good idea after rain. Nearby Blakey Topping offers wide views for a longer outing. Dogs on short leads are welcome. There is no café on the reserve itself, so it works well as a walk-and-picnic day out, and it can be combined with the wider Dalby Forest trails.