Social walk from YHA Malham

Malham cove on a sunny day

Overview

Saturday 3rd October 2026

Distance: 7.6 miles (12.2km)

Duration: 4.5 - 5.5 hours

Led by: Simon Ainley, YHA, with BMC volunteer guides

Discovery and connection

Starting and finishing at YHA Malham, this classic Yorkshire Dales circular walk visits some of the area’s most iconic landscapes. The route passes through woodland to the picturesque waterfall at Janet’s Foss before continuing into the dramatic limestone gorge of Gordale Scar, where towering cliffs create one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the Dales. 

The walk then climbs onto open countryside towards the peaceful waters of Malham Tarn, England’s highest marl lake, before returning south across the limestone uplands to the magnificent amphitheatre-shaped cliffs of Malham Cove. From the top of the cove with its limestone pavement, there are superb views over the surrounding countryside before descending steeply on a good path at the side of the Cove, which brings us back to Malham village and the hostel.

Book your place

This event is part of YHA's Festival of Walking - view other social walks.

What makes it special

  • Link four of the Yorkshire Dales most famous natural landmarks and spectacular geological features
  • Great for building confidence and meeting people
  • Free cuppa and cake at the finishing point

Date and time

Saturday 3rd October

Start: 10:30am

Starting point: YHA Malham
 

Price

It’s free to sign up for this event. We’re encouraging participants to make a voluntary donation to support our Breaks Programme, helping groups of young people and families facing challenging circumstances to access life-changing adventures in our hostels.

Hostels nearby

Location of Social walk from YHA Malham

Social walk from YHA Malham

Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 4DB

Map references

OS Map:
98
OS Grid Ref:
SD901629
Lat/Lng:
54.062513, -2.152044

Contact information

Other things to do nearby