Background

The Coldstones Cut: A Sculptural Gateway to Nidderdale's Landscape

A monumental outdoor sculpture blending art, heritage, and sweeping Nidderdale vistas in a dramatic natural setting.

4.6

The Coldstones Cut is a striking outdoor sculptural landmark located near Bewerley, Harrogate, within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This unique artwork, carved into the landscape, offers panoramic views and a profound connection between art, nature, and local heritage. Open 24/7 year-round with free admission, it invites visitors to explore its dramatic forms and the surrounding scenic environment.

A brief summary to The Coldstones Cut

  • Harrogate, Bewerley, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the sculpture’s textures and the expansive views.
  • Wear sturdy footwear for the 500-meter uphill walk from the car park to the site.
  • Check out the visitor hub on weekdays for informative displays about the artwork and local history.
  • Bring a camera to capture the changing light and dramatic landscapes surrounding the Cut.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Harrogate takes approximately 30-40 minutes via local roads to the free car park near the Coldstones Cut. Parking is ample but can fill during peak times. No parking fees apply.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Pateley Bridge to Bewerley, with a journey time of around 15-20 minutes. From Bewerley, expect a 20-minute uphill walk to the Cut. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. Tickets cost around £3-£5.

  • Walking

    From the car park, a 500-meter uphill walk on a well-maintained path leads to the Coldstones Cut. The walk is moderately steep and suitable for most visitors with reasonable fitness.

The Coldstones Cut location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of The Coldstones Cut

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Coldstones Cut

An Artistic Landmark Sculpted from the Earth

The Coldstones Cut stands as a monumental piece of land art, carved directly into the hillside overlooking Nidderdale. Conceived as a collaboration between artist Andrew Sabin and local communities, the Cut is a vast sculptural intervention that merges natural rock formations with human craftsmanship. Its design echoes the industrial heritage of the area, particularly the quarrying traditions that shaped Nidderdale’s landscape. The Cut’s jagged edges and undulating forms invite visitors to contemplate the relationship between nature and industry, art and environment.

Immersive Views and Natural Surroundings

Perched on Greenhow Hill near Bewerley, the Coldstones Cut offers sweeping panoramic views across the Nidderdale valley. The vantage points framed by the sculpture reveal rolling hills, patchwork fields, and the distant Yorkshire Dales. The site’s elevation and open-air setting provide a tranquil yet dramatic atmosphere, where visitors can experience changing light and weather conditions that transform the sculpture’s appearance. The surrounding moorland and woodland enhance the sense of being immersed in nature while engaging with contemporary art.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, the Coldstones Cut welcomes visitors without any admission fee. A free car park is available nearby, followed by a 500-meter uphill walk to reach the site, making it accessible to most visitors with moderate mobility. The walk itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the landscape and building anticipation for the dramatic sculptural forms ahead. On weekdays, a visitor hub is open from 10am to 4pm, providing additional information about the artwork and the area.

Integration of Heritage and Contemporary Culture

The Coldstones Cut is more than a sculpture; it is a cultural landmark that celebrates Nidderdale’s industrial past while embracing contemporary artistic expression. The site reflects the quarrying heritage through its raw, cut-stone aesthetic and serves as a gateway to the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It stands as a symbol of how art can transform landscapes, offering new perspectives on place, history, and environment.

Environmental and Community Significance

Situated within a protected landscape, the Coldstones Cut is managed with respect for its natural surroundings. The project involved local input and continues to engage the community, fostering a sense of pride and connection. The area supports diverse wildlife habitats and encourages sustainable visitation practices. Its location within Nidderdale promotes awareness of conservation efforts and the importance of preserving natural beauty alongside cultural landmarks.

Capturing Moments and Memories

The Coldstones Cut’s dramatic forms and scenic backdrop make it a favored spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. Whether bathed in golden sunrise light or silhouetted against moody skies, the sculpture offers countless opportunities for striking imagery. Visitors often find moments of quiet reflection here, inspired by the interplay of art, landscape, and sky.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Coldstones Cut

Popular Hotels near The Coldstones Cut

Select Currency