Thrill‑seekers are invited to take on a high‑speed zip wire challenge over Ilkley Moor this summer, with a new option to Zip the Cow by twilight in a special ‘mooon‑lit’ session.
Zip the Cow, taking place on Saturday 11 July 2026, will see brave challengers walk to the top of the iconic “cow” at the Cow and Calf Rocks above Ilkley before launching themselves down a 270m zip slide, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.
For the evening event, the Cow Rock and surrounding area will be spectacularly lit, giving even returning participants the chance to enjoy a whole new unforgettable experience.
Following the success of previous years, Zip the Cow continues to bring local communities together for an exhilarating challenge.
Andrew Wood, Senior Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice and Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, said:
“We see each year that Zip the Cow is a superb way for families, friends, clubs and colleagues to celebrate special milestones and memories.
“It’s always fantastic to see people laughing, cheering and waving as granny flies overhead! We hope this year will be just as exhilarating, all while supporting such an important cause.”
The zip slide is suitable for people aged eight and above, provided they weigh between 32kg and 111kg and can walk the rough path to the top of the Cow Rock. No prior training is required, and every participant will receive a bespoke ‘I Zipped the Cow’ medal.
This year’s headline sponsors are Crag & Co. Accountants and LCF Law, helping to make this thrilling challenge possible.
Places are available on a first‑come, first‑served basis, with both ‘with fundraising’ and ‘without fundraising’ options available.
For more information and to sign up, visit sueryder.org/zipthecow

Doggy Days set to return to Ilkley Lido
Foley Films returns to Ilkley with new autumn programme
Spellman Care named Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year
Runners for Great North Run raise over £17,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance
Sir Gareth Southgate helps raise £23,000 for Martin House at Ilkley golf event
Ashlands Bonfire to celebrate 40th anniversary with biggest-ever fireworks display
Off-peak roadworks begin on A65 near Ilkley
Ilkley businesses become Gold Sponsor of Clarke Foley Community Hub
Ilkley takeaway named among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
McDonald's near Ilkley seeks earlier opening hours
Ilkley care home resident celebrates 106th birthday
Fresh handmade bread coming to Three Little Birds in Ilkley
Former Ilkley bistro owner teases new venture on the High Street
New Ilkley travel agency to celebrate opening with special event
Mental health campaign launched in memory of son
Yorkshire writers in spotlight at Ilkley Literature Festival
Annual golf day raises £4,383 for Airedale Hospital
The Ilkley Cow enters search for UK's Favourite Local Business
New Ilkley care home announces opening date following 11 month refurbishment
Ilkley team raises £3,300+ for The Principle Trust in Three Peaks challenge


