The Cow and Calf is a famous rocky outcrop and a large boulder on the edge of Ilkley Moor, overlooking the town. It's the start point for many walks across the moors and, with a café and a pub nearby, it is a visitor destination even for those who don't want a walk. Unless you go early or late in the day, it can be tricky to find anywhere to park, such is its popularity. There are almost always climbers practising, particularly inside what I think must at one time have been a stone quarry behind the rock face. The rock is millstone grit, a type of rough sandstone. I have no idea how difficult the climbs here are; it's not a great height but there are crevices and overhangs to navigate.
You can have a fascinating half hour watching them climb and, if climbing isn't your thing, you can walk the easy way round and sit at the top anyway, enjoying the view.
I believe that climb grades range from a 'V Diff' (beginner level) to E8 (Extreme 8), only achievable by the elite few. Most climbs are in the 'E' range so anyone who climbs Cow and Calf needs to be reasonably proficient.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful spot to sit and enjoy the view...but a bit weird it must be to have a climber come up behind you having just assented via ropes.
ReplyDeleteI think I would be nervous just watching them climb that wall.
ReplyDeleteNow that is my idea of fun.
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