Ultimate Guide to Malham Cove Circular Walk in Yorkshire Dales

This guide addresses essential questions and shares valuable insights to enhance your visit to Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales.

Where Is Malham Cove?

Malham Cove is located within the village of Malham in the Yorkshire Dales. The nearest town is Skipton, and those traveling from Leeds, York, or Manchester can expect a driving time of approximately 90 minutes, making a day trip to Malham Cove quite feasible.

Your Guide To Malham Cove Circular Walks

Starting Point and Route Description

The preferred starting point for the Malham Cove circular walk is directly from Malham Cove. This clockwise route provides an ideal experience. The entrance to the cove is a short distance from Malham Village center. Begin by following Malham Beck towards Cove Road, exiting the village. As you proceed along Cove Road, Town Head Barn, a National Trust site, will be on your right. Following a brief incline, you will arrive at the gateway and path leading to Malham Cove. The path and destination are well-marked and accessible down to the cove. Once prepared to ascend the limestone pavement atop Malham Cove, take the steps to your left. Ascend at your own pace, as the steps can be steep. However, the views of the Yorkshire Dales from the top are truly remarkable. Cross the limestone pathway toward the fields and locate the gap in the dry stone wall. Turn right after passing through this gap and continue uphill alongside Malham Cove. While the path may initially be grassy and unclear, keeping Malham Cove to your right will guide you in the right direction. The path will eventually clear alongside the dry stone wall, leading you to Tarn Road. At this point, turn right, and approximately 100 meters down the road, you can scale the wall to rejoin the pathway. Continuing downhill through the fields, you will reach Gordale Beck and Gordale Lane. Here, you may opt to turn left to visit the entrance of Gordale Scar for a glimpse of the impressive waterfall at the end of the path. Alternatively, for a shorter route, forgo Gordale Scar and turn right down the road towards Janet’s Foss. The sign and path to Janet’s Foss will be on your left, leading to stone steps that descend to the base of the waterfall. One of the most photographed locations in the Yorkshire Dales, Janet’s Foss offers a perfect spot for photography or a refreshing swim on a warm day. To return to Malham Village, follow the path through the woods, which often emit a delightful wild garlic aroma in late spring and early summer. This section is relatively flat, as is the terrain leading into Malham. For those preferring an anti-clockwise route, you can commence the walk at Malham Cove by taking the Pennine Way route south of Malham. This flat path leads through fields and woods to Janet’s Foss first. Top Tip: Stop at Gordale Bridge for a cup of tea; there’s usually a food van offering much-needed refreshments!

Clockwise Versus Anti-Clockwise Route

Personally, I prefer the clockwise route due to the captivating view of Malham Cove as I approach it; the sight becomes increasingly impressive with each step. Although the initial steep ascent of the steps can be daunting, it allows for a relatively steady and mostly flat walk afterward, culminating in a gentle downhill stretch towards Janet’s Foss. This timing enables a refreshing stop for foot dipping in the river at Gordale Scar or swimming at Janet’s Foss. Nonetheless, opting for the anti-clockwise direction remains stunning; while there is still an ascent, it is a gentle climb across the fields. Additionally, the waters at Malham Cove are an excellent option for cooling off your feet.

Duration of the Malham Cove Circular Walk

Malham – Malham Cove – Janet’s Foss – Malham This route spans approximately 7 kilometers and takes around 2 hours at a steady pace. Malham – Malham Cove – Gordale Scar – Janet’s Foss – Malham This alternative covers around 8 kilometers and requires about 3 hours at a steady pace. For guidance on this route, refer to the Malham Cove Circular Walk via Gordale Scar. Should you choose not to visit Gordale Scar, simply omit this detour, proceeding directly from Gordale Bridge to Janet’s Foss. Malham – Janet’s Foss – Gordale Scar – Malham Tarn – Malham Cove – Malham This extended route is approximately 12.1 kilometers long and typically takes around 3 hours. Detailed directions are available for the Malham Tarn Circular Walk on Dales Walks.

Shorter Walks in Malham

Yes, you may choose to walk directly from Malham Village to Malham Cove, a journey that takes no longer than an hour and follows a well-established path. Alternatively, you can bypass Malham Cove entirely and take the flat path through the woods from Malham to Janet’s Foss. Repeating this route will take about 1 hour, though a swim at Janet’s Foss could easily extend your visit! For a slightly lengthier option, traverse past Janet’s Foss and continue along the road to Gordale Scar. This excursion from Malham to Gordale Scar and back typically requires about 90 minutes. Besides the steps leading past the waterfall and a brief incline between Janet’s Foss and Gordale Bridge, the path remains flat. If driving and wishing to visit Gordale Scar, be aware that parking is limited near Gordale Bridge.

Difficulty of the Malham Cove Walk

Overall, the Malham Cove Circular walk is considered easy within the Yorkshire Dales. Aside from the steps ascending Malham Cove, the route lacks steep inclines. The pathways are well-maintained, and the terrain is manageable for walkers. While navigating the limestone path may present challenges due to gaps, the wide stone slabs facilitate safe passage. This walk is suitable for families and those with a reasonable level of fitness.

Steps to Ascend to the Top of Malham Cove

Approximately 400 steps lead to the pinnacle of Malham Cove, enabling walkers to continue along the Pennine Way and ascend 80 meters (260 feet) to the summit of the limestone pavement. Despite the steepness, taking around 10 minutes to ascend, the panoramic views make it worthwhile. Don’t hesitate to pause and savor the scenery if you need a breath!

Getting to Malham Cove

For optimal use of your time in Malham, utilize the postcode BD23 4DJ when driving. This location is accessible via personal vehicle or a rental from major nearby cities (Leeds, Manchester, York). Note that the roads leading to Malham are narrow yet well-maintained. Expect potential congestion during peak times, necessitating caution with both speed and parking to allow for smooth traffic flow, including emergency vehicles. If opting for public transport, you can take a train to Gargrave (7 miles away) or Skipton (11 miles away) with service from Leeds and Bradford. You might also consider a scenic ride on the Leeds – Settle – Carlisle train, which traverses the Yorkshire Dales. Arriving by train will place you near Malham Cove, requiring either a walk, bus ride, or taxi to begin your expedition around Malham Cove. It is advisable to check National Rail for current train schedules relevant to your journey. The Dales Bus service operates from Gargrave or Skipton to Malham. Schedules change between weekdays and weekends, and a summer service is also available from Settle to Malham Tarn. Here’s the Dales Bus timetable updated in May 2022.

Car Parking at Malham Cove

Yes, parking is available at Malham Cove. The primary car park is located at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre. If arriving from the south (Gargrave), this car park is located on the left before entering Malham Village. The corresponding postcode is BD23 4DG for GPS purposes. Payment can be made at the machine for the day: £3 under two hours and £5 for over two hours. Overnight parking is £6 for 24 hours or £7.50 for 48 hours. Additionally, there are app-enabled electric car charging stations on site. During busy seasons, alternative parking options may exist within the village, mainly in fields that require cash payment on arrival, usually around £5.

Best Time of Year to Visit Malham Cove

Late spring or early summer is considered the optimal time to experience Malham Cove, as the weather tends to be favorable and the landscape is vibrant with fresh greens, wild garlic, and blooming flowers. Visits in February and mid-September have also proven pleasant, with temperatures warm enough for wading into the waters of Gordale Scar. However, even summer has experienced rainy weather. Regardless of your visit time, aim for a day with dry weather for optimal path conditions and to avoid slippery limestone surfaces. Top Tip: Arrive as early as possible. Starting your walk before 9 AM typically allows you to enjoy Malham Cove with fewer crowds, making the early rise well worth it.

Facilities in Malham

Public toilets are available at no cost at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre, which also contains a visitor center offering maps, local literature, and small gifts. In Malham Village, several pubs serve meals and refreshing beverages post-walk, alongside cafes providing coffee and snacks. Accommodation options are plentiful, perfect for extending your stay, while outdoor shops cater to any needs for your Malham Cove journey. Top Tip: After completing your circular walk at Malham Cove, treat yourself to ice cream while resting on the grass by The Lister Arms – it’s an idyllic riverside spot!

Recommended Footwear for the Malham Cove Walk

At a minimum, effective trainers or footwear with good grip are advisable. I have successfully completed this walk in both trainers and walking boots during dry conditions. If there is rain, walking boots are recommended, as the limestone path can quickly become slippery, particularly in wet weather or with mud accumulation. Well-maintained paths are still best navigated with appropriate footwear for support and protection.

Swimming in Janet’s Foss

Indeed, swimming in Janet’s Foss is permitted and quite popular among outdoor swimmers in the Yorkshire Dales. Be sure to bring your swimwear for a refreshing summer dip!

Accommodation Options for a Weekend in Malham

Malham offers numerous accommodation choices for a weekend getaway. For camping, consider Gordale Scar Campsite or Riverside Campsite, which is conveniently situated next to the path leading to Malham Cove. If glamping is more your style, Malham Glamping Pods provide comfort, or you can book a stay at YHA Malham for budget-friendly accommodation in the area. For a cozier experience, consider one of the many bed and breakfasts, cottage stays, or Lister Barn, part of the Lister Arms. If you embark on the Malham Cove circular walk, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! It remains one of my top favorite walks, providing a splendid way to explore the Yorkshire Dales!