Attermire Scar
Dramatic limestone gorge with a waterfall, ancient pavement, and hidden caves. A must-see natural wonder in the Yorkshire Dales.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Attermire Scar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic limestone gorge with a waterfall, ancient pavement, and hidden caves. A must-see natural wonder in the Yorkshire Dales.
"Prepare to be captivated by Gordale Scar! Its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape offer an incredible experience."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially near the waterfall. Good hiking boots are essential.
💧 Consider a Swim
On warm days, brave souls can enjoy a wild swim in the stream near Gordale Scar.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gordale Scar Gorge
Deep-sided gorge
A breathtaking natural gorge with a waterfall, offering a sense of awe and wonder.
Malham Cove Limestone Pavement
Top of the gorge
Vast, ancient limestone pavement with incredible views, famous for its unique geological formations.
Janet's Foss Waterfall
Woodland walk
A charming waterfall nestled in a woodland setting, perfect for a serene stop.
Attermire Scar Caves
Pennine Bridleway
Explore ancient caves, including Victoria Cave, offering insights into prehistoric life.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Gordale Scar's Terrain
Beat the Crowds at Malham
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially near the waterfall. Good hiking boots are essential.
💧 Consider a Swim
On warm days, brave souls can enjoy a wild swim in the stream near Gordale Scar.
⬆️ Don't Climb the Waterfall
Avoid attempting to scale the main waterfall; stick to designated paths for safety.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning shots of the gorge, cove, and waterfalls. Drone footage is also popular.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially near the waterfall. Good hiking boots are essential.
💧 Consider a Swim
On warm days, brave souls can enjoy a wild swim in the stream near Gordale Scar.
⬆️ Don't Climb the Waterfall
Avoid attempting to scale the main waterfall; stick to designated paths for safety.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning shots of the gorge, cove, and waterfalls. Drone footage is also popular.
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful place pristine by taking all your rubbish with you.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early for free parking, as spaces fill up quickly, especially on busy days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Gordale Scar and Malham Cove, describing them as breathtaking and awe-inspiring. The unique geological formations and waterfalls are major highlights. However, the popularity means it can get extremely crowded, detracting from the experience for some. Litter can also be an issue in certain areas.
"A fantastic piece of nature and a beautiful waterfall that is hidden within a scar. This is a lovely place to stop and have a snack/break when exploring the area with great protection from the wind and sun on hot days."
Matt H
"Prepare to be captivated by Gordale Scar! Its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape offer an incredible experience, from exhilarating rock climbing to fascinating educational insights. Plus, there's a certain ethereal quality that makes it easy to imagine anything from ancient legends to unexplained aerial phenomena unfolding around you - truly a place of wonder!"
Madusha Fernando
"if all trails tells you to go up the waterfall to go around the top, don't. from a non rock climber there is pretty much nothing that looks even scalable.
but this place is CRAZY. the size is overwhelming and vertigo inducing. walking along the path there, and back through the field along the stream is really nice.
some people leave rubbish around, so try and pick it up if you find it."
Kali
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gordale Scar and Malham Cove are located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, near the village of Malham. The most common access point is via the Malham Visitor Centre. You can drive to Malham, with parking available near the village. Public transport options include buses that run to Malham, though services can be infrequent. +1
Yes, there is parking available near Malham Cove and the start of the walk to Gordale Scar. It's often free but spaces are limited and fill up very quickly, especially during peak times and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, you can reach Malham by bus from nearby towns like Skipton. However, bus services can be limited, so it's advisable to check timetables in advance. Once in Malham, Gordale Scar and Malham Cove are within walking distance.
Attermire Scar is accessible via the Pennine Bridleway, often starting from the market town of Settle. A short but steep climb up Sugarloaf Hill offers great views of the scar.
Yes, guided walks are sometimes available, such as the 'Friends Free Guided Walk' which can include views of Attermire Scar. Keep an eye out for local walking groups or visitor centre information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Gordale Scar and Malham Cove is free. There are no admission fees to explore these natural attractions.
Gordale Scar and Malham Cove are natural attractions and are open to visitors at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
Attermire Scar is part of the natural landscape and accessible via public footpaths, so there is no entrance fee.
As there is no admission fee, advance booking is not required for Malham Cove or Gordale Scar. However, parking can be an issue, so arriving early is advised.
While there are no official restrictions, it's important to be mindful of the natural environment. Please stick to paths, take your litter with you, and be aware of the challenging terrain in certain areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular walk is the circular route from Malham village, taking in Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet's Foss waterfall. This loop is approximately 5 miles and offers diverse scenery. +2
The main path to Gordale Scar is generally manageable, but the terrain can be uneven. Attempting to climb the waterfall itself is considered difficult and not recommended for casual walkers.
Attermire Scar features dramatic limestone cliffs, caves like Victoria Cave, and stunning views over the surrounding Yorkshire Dales. It's also a popular spot for rock climbing.
While not officially designated for swimming, some visitors enjoy a wild swim in the stream near Gordale Scar on warmer days. Be cautious of the currents and cold water.
The main path to Gordale Scar is suitable for families, but the terrain can be challenging in places. The area around Malham Cove and Janet's Foss is generally more accessible for younger children.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of Malham Cove offers panoramic views of the limestone pavement and the surrounding landscape. The base of the cove and the path leading to Gordale Scar also provide dramatic perspectives. +1
Drone flying is permitted in many areas of the Yorkshire Dales, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Some videos showcase impressive drone footage of the scar.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh.
The walk up to the tarn above Gordale Scar offers spectacular elevated views. The path along the stream leading back from the gorge also provides excellent photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of Malham Cove and the gorge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details and wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a shorter, out-and-back walk to Gordale Scar from the visitor centre if a full loop seems too much. The sheer scale of the gorge can be awe-inspiring for kids, and the stream offers opportunities for supervised exploration. Remember to emphasize safety and stick to marked trails.
🧗♀️ Rock Climbers
+1Many climbers appreciate the quality of the routes and the stunning views from the scar. It's a great spot for a day of outdoor climbing, offering a good challenge and a rewarding experience. Remember to check local conditions and climbing ethics before your visit.
+1🚶 Solo Hikers
Attermire Scar also provides opportunities for solo exploration, with its dramatic landscapes and challenging climbs. The Pennine Bridleway offers a clear path, and the views are spectacular. Embrace the solitude and the connection with nature.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Gordale Scar and Malham Cove
The waterfall at Gordale Scar is a seasonal spectacle, its flow varying with rainfall. The gorge itself is a deep, narrow cleft with towering limestone walls, creating a dramatic and somewhat enclosed atmosphere. Exploring the base of the scar reveals the immense scale of these natural formations.
Nearby, Attermire Scar also showcases impressive limestone cliffs and is known for its caves, such as Victoria Cave. These caves have yielded significant archaeological finds, providing insights into prehistoric human activity and the Ice Age environment.
+1Rock Climbing at Attermire Scar
+1Routes range in difficulty, with many graded in the 5s and 6s, making it accessible for those looking to progress or enjoy a good day out. Popular routes mentioned include 'If Looks Could Kill' (5c) and various 6b+ and 6c climbs. Climbers often note the need to adapt to limestone and potentially cold spring weather.
+1While primarily known for its climbing, the location offers stunning views and a sense of adventure. It's a place where climbers can test their skills against the natural limestone formations while enjoying the expansive Yorkshire Dales scenery.
+1The Malham Circular Walk Experience
From Malham Cove, the path continues to the awe-inspiring Gordale Scar, a deep gorge with a powerful waterfall. While the main path is accessible, attempting to climb the waterfall directly is challenging and not advised for most. The surrounding landscape, however, offers incredible views and a sense of wildness.
The final leg of the loop often includes Janet's Foss, a picturesque waterfall tucked away in a woodland setting. This charming spot provides a tranquil contrast to the grandeur of the scar and cove. The entire walk is a fantastic way to experience the diverse natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit