Amazing Geology

The Bridestones are a fascinating set of rocks, sculpted over countless ages by the relentless winds, standing at an elevation of approximately 400 metres above sea level. These intriguing stones are nestled on the moors to the north of Todmorden, in West Yorkshire. If you’re up for a little adventure, consider making the trek to this unique geological site!

The stones consist of Millstone grit outcrops, formed in the Carboniferous era - the “Age of Amphibians” - around 300 million years ago. At that time the area around Todmorden was part of a large river delta, with mountains to the east and west, where sand was deposited and compressed causing water to be squeezed out. This water moving through the sediments carried minerals which cemented the sand grains together to make sandstones and grits. The land was subsequently uplifted and eroded during the ice ages leaving the prominent escarpment overhanging the valley that we see today.

The sand grains in Millstone grit can be seen in fresh, unweathered rock. With a hand lens you can see quartz grains which are a grey colour, while feldspars are pink, white or cream.