Explore the Bridestones Walk in Dalby Forest from The Lodge in Burniston
If you're staying at The Lodge in Burniston, one of the best day trips you can take is to Dalby Forest, part of the North York Moors National Park. Just a short drive away, the Bridestones Trail is a spectacular circular walk through ancient woodland and remarkable sandstone rock formations. It’s perfect for anyone looking to combine fresh air, geological wonders, and peaceful moorland views.
📍 Where Is the Bridestones Walk?
The Bridestones are located in the southern section of Dalby Forest, near Staindale Lake. It's about a 30-minute drive (approx. 14 miles) from The Lodge in Burniston. The walk is part of the official Forestry England Dalby Forest trail system and is well signposted.
Parking & Forest Entry Fee
Park at Staindale Lake Car Park (postcode: YO18 7LR). It’s the most convenient starting point for the Bridestones walk.
Entrance Fees:
£10 per car per day
Pay at the contactless pay stations or using the RingGo App (location code posted at the site)
Forestry England membership also allows free parking and supports conservation work
The Bridestones Circular Walk
Distance: ~3 miles / 5 km
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some inclines and uneven terrain)
Walk Description:
Start at Staindale Lake, and follow signs for the Bridestones Trail heading north.
Ascend through peaceful pine forest, eventually reaching open heathland.
Discover the Bridestones — towering sandstone formations shaped by natural erosion over millions of years. Their eerie, human-like shapes have inspired myths and legends.
Continue the trail to form a circular route, with panoramic views across the forest before looping back to the lake.
Trail map & info:
Bridestones Walk – Forestry England
History & Geology of the Bridestones
The Bridestones are Jurassic-period sandstone outcrops, formed around 160 million years ago.
Shaped by wind, water, and ice erosion, they resemble natural sculptures — think mushrooms, people, or creatures!
Their name likely comes from old folklore referring to “bride stones” or ancient ceremonial stones, though no prehistoric rituals have been confirmed.
Nearby areas feature Bronze Age burial sites and ancient trackways, adding mystery to this already impressive site.
What to Bring
Sturdy boots or walking shoes
Waterproof jacket and warm layers
Water bottle/snacks
A camera or phone
Trail map or app (the route is signposted but having a GPS backup is smart)
Where to Eat & Drink Afterwards
Dalby Forest Café
Located at the Visitor Centre, a 10-minute drive from Staindale Lake. Great for light meals, coffees, and sweet treats in a forest-side setting.The Fox & Rabbit Inn
A charming country pub in nearby Lockton (YO18 7NQ), known for its Yorkshire ales, Sunday roasts, and traditional pub fare.
Stay with Us at The Lodge in Burniston
Whether you're here for walking, wildlife, or winding down in comfort, The Lodge in Burniston is your perfect base on the North Yorkshire coast. Dalby Forest, the North York Moors, and scenic coastal towns like Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay are all just a short journey away.
Ready to explore the Bridestones? Pack your boots, charge your phone, and discover one of the most remarkable walks in North Yorkshire.
