Malham Cove Circular Walk

One of the most popular walks in the Yorkshire Dales, the Malham Cove Circular Walk combines dramatic limestone scenery, a stunning waterfall and some of the area’s most famous natural landmarks. Starting in the picturesque village of Malham, this route is a fantastic way to experience the very best of the National Park in a single walk.

Most walkers begin in Malham village, where there is the large Malham National Park visitor centre car park, cafés, pubs and facilities. From the village, follow the well-signposted path towards Malham Cove, a huge curved limestone cliff standing around 80 metres high. The walk to the cove is relatively gentle and offers spectacular views as the dramatic rock face gradually comes into view.

Once at the base of Malham Cove, the route continues up the famous stone staircase. The climb consists of around 400 uneven steps and can be challenging in places, but the effort is well rewarded. At the top you’ll discover the limestone pavement, a fascinating natural formation that was used as a filming location in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The views across the Yorkshire Dales from here are simply breathtaking.

From the top of the cove, continue across the limestone pavement, following the path towards Gordale Scar. This impressive limestone gorge features towering cliffs and a dramatic waterfall, making it another highlight of the walk. After exploring Gordale Scar, follow the path back towards the road and continue to Janet’s Foss. We visited on a super hot day, so we left out the walk to Gordale Scar as it’s a slight deviation from the circular route.

Janet’s Foss is a beautiful woodland waterfall and one of the most photographed spots in the area. Legend says that Janet, the Queen of the Fairies, is said to live behind the waterfall. The peaceful setting makes it a perfect place to stop before completing the final section of the walk.

From Janet’s Foss, it’s a short and easy walk back into Malham village, completing a circular route that showcases some of Yorkshire’s most spectacular landscapes. Allow around 3-4 hours to enjoy the walk comfortably, longer if stopping frequently for photographs and refreshments. There is a drinks/snack van near Janet’s Foss which provided a welcome pit-stop for us (open most days)

Important Information: Malham Cove Circular Walk

Is there food and drink available?

There are places for food and drinks in Malham. Plus a snack van on the road near Janet’s Foss.

What are the main things to do?

A spectacular circular walk from Malham village taking in Malham Cove, the famous limestone pavement, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss, with stunning Yorkshire Dales scenery and around 400 steps to climb along the way