Bookshop opens in Rocks centre

The shop was the idea of Welcome Manager Neil Hird who wanted to sell books to raise funds to support the conservation work at the National Trust site.

Neil said: “It’s been absolutely amazing, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the response of those kind people who have already donated thousands of books.

“I was actually concerned that we may not have enough to call it a bookshop, now we don’t have enough space. It’s brilliant.”

The shop is stocked with novels, reference and children’s books as well as the National Trust gifts.

The shop is housed in the visitor centre - Brimham House, which was built in 1792 for Lord Grantley as a hunting lodge and a ‘house of pleasure where the rock formations could be admired’.

Until the recent pandemic, the front of house was used as a visitors’ centre and National Trust shop but with no visitors due to Covid, it was forced to close.

The shop is open but, as it is staffed by volunteers, opening hours vary.

Brimham Rocks and its heather moorland are Sites of Special Scientific Interest and are a magnet for geologists, naturalists, climbers and walkers, as well as families who love the freedom to explore this amazing place.

The National Trust, which operates the site, said that during current covid-19 restriction, booking is not needed by visitors but parking is limited.

“If there’s no spaces, unfortunately you’ll be turned away,” said a National Trust spokesman.

“Please don’t park on the road as it obstructs farmers access to their land and prevents emergency services reaching the site.

“In line with government guidance, our countryside space is open for local visitors to access for walks.

“We ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe.

“We’re sorry but our visitor centre is closed. Places open are the countryside, car park, refreshment kiosk and toilets.

“Visitors are required to wear a face covering in most enclosed spaces. Please bring one with you.

Anyone wishing to donate books can hand them into the staff in the main car park.