Villages I Love: Malham, Yorkshire

I fell in love with the Yorkshire Dales the first time I saw them back in the 1980s. Rolling hills, limestone caves and crags, rivers, dry-stone walls and sheep, lots of sheep. There are many beautiful places in Yorkshire but Malham always captured my heart and still does to this day.

What’s special about it?

Nestled in the upper part of the valley of the River Aire and surrounded by limestone pavements, Malham represents for me a typical Yorkshire Dales village. Despite being a very popular destination especially with walkers, Malham has retained its charm and quiet village life identity.

Wander around and enjoy country cottages, little gardens bursting with color, and views to the surrounding countryside. Because so many tourists like to come here it can be pretty busy at times so plan ahead if you want to stay in the area and be aware that parking can be problematic.

How to get there

Depending on your starting point, Malham is easily accessible from most sides by car.

Things to see & do nearby

Malham Cove

About 1 mile from the village, Malham Cove is not only famed for its natural beauty but is a well-known and very popular climbing spot. Depending on the time of year and weather you will almost certainly see climbers on the steep and overhanging cliffs.

Malham Tarn

Feeling adventurous and want to enjoy some stunning views? Then take a walk up to the limestone pavements at the top of the cove and continue on to where you can see the glacial lake known as Malham Tarn.

Janet’s Foss

Another natural wonder to behold and well worth the effort. Accessible via a woodland path, the waterfall carries Gordale Beck into a deep pool. Mysterious and magical, add this to your list of things to do.

Useful resources

https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/

https://www.malhamdale.com/janetsfoss/

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/malham-cove

Final words

Referred to as God’s own country by its inhabitants, Yorkshire abounds with wonderful places to visit. Personally, I love the Dales and could happily spend days and weeks there. Make sure to keep this beautiful county clean no matter what time of year you go there and above all enjoy this amazing part of England.