Rombald’s Rocks are rolling into Ilkley for Yorkshire Day weekend

Thursday, 17 July 2025 11:58

This August, something magical is arriving at Ilkley Manor House - Rombald’s Rocks: Keighley Sculpture Trail, a collection of playful, characterful sculptures born from local legend and bursting with community spirit.

As part of this year’s Yorkshire Day weekend celebrations, the sculptures will be installed at the Ilkley Manor House on Friday, 1st August, with an official opening at 11am on Saturday 2^nd August by MP Robbie Moore.

Created by multidisciplinary artist Leonie Briggs and developed in partnership with Keighley Creative, Rombald’s Rocks: Keighley Sculpture Trail brings to life the folklore of Rombald the Giant, said to have shaped the dramatic rock formations that define the region.

Most visitors know the iconic Cow and Calf and refer to the whole area as "Ilkley Moor," but in fact, it’s all part of Rombalds Moor—a sprawling patchwork of moorland that includes Addingham, Morton, Bingley, Hawksworth, and Burley Moors, with Ilkley at its heart.

Leonie Briggs explains:

“In this trail, Rombald the Giant has been up to his old tricks—hurling stones across the landscape. One of those great rocks has shattered into 10 playful pieces, each sprouting legs and running off on their own adventure. Now, some of them have found their way to Ilkley!”

Originally launched in Keighley earlier this summer, the project involved 14 artists, 5 community groups, and over 200 local people in the making and decorating of the sculptures. The result is a joyful, accessible trail that brings art into everyday spaces and celebrates shared heritage.

[The Rombald's Rocks: Keighley Sculpture Trail is rolling into Ilkley in August (Photo: John Bell)]

Sarah Thomas, Chair of Trustees at Ilkley Manor House, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Rombald’s Rocks to the Manor House as part of a growing creative partnership between Keighley and Ilkley.

“This is about more than art—it’s about community, collaboration, and reconnecting people with the stories that shape our landscape. The trail has been a brilliant success in Keighley, and we’re excited to now share it with Ilkley audiences.”

The sculptures themselves are brimming with personality, each one lovingly handcrafted by Leonie Briggs and transformed by local artists and community groups. From schoolchildren to older adults, refugees to creatives, the trail reflects the full diversity and creativity of the region.

Riaz Meer is the Executive Director of Keighley Creative and commented:

“Rombald’s Rocks represents everything Keighley Creative stands for—bringing people together through accessible, joyful public art. We’re especially proud of the growing partnership with Ilkley Manor House, which is helping to build stronger cultural connections across the district. When towns like Keighley and Ilkley come together to share stories, skills, and creativity, everyone benefits.”

Supported by Bradford 2025’s Creative Communities Fund and Keighley BID, the trail is a celebration of local identity, creativity, and cross-town collaboration—building momentum towards Bradford’s City of Culture year.

The sculptures will remain on display at Ilkley Manor House until Sunday 10th August. The Manor House is open weekends 11am until 4pm and entry is free.