Places to visit
Malham Cove
The climbing mecca of Malham Cove is a sight to behold. The 70 metre tall, gently curving cliff of white limestone was first formed along the line of the Middle Craven fault – and has been eroded back by water and ice over millions of years.
Whether you fancy paddling through the stream at its base or climbing your way to the top (via the walkers’ path, not up the face!) to take in the views, it’s well worth a trip. You might even spot the pair of peregrine falcons which call the cove home during the summer.
Brimham Rocks
People have been drawn to Brimham Rocks for years, admiring and clambering across the unusual formations of stone at the southern end of the Yorkshire Dales.
From the Smartie Tube and Castle Rock to the Druid’s Writing Desk and the Idol, the rocks are the perfect place to while away a couple of hours and contemplate the majesty of the natural world. There’s a little coffee shop at the far end for refreshments, and Harrogate Climbing Centre runs regular climbing sessions if you fancy doing a bit of bouldering.
Aysgarth Falls
The stepped waterfalls at Aysgarth have been attracting tourists for over 200 years – and it’s easy to see why. They’re spectacular (particularly after it’s been raining heavily). There’s a series of walks alongside the falls and you can clamber down to the banks of the river if you fancy getting your feet wet. It’s a good place for a quick leg stretch off the bike too, because there’s a car park, a National Park Centre and café.
Gordale Scar
Along with Malham Cove, the hidden gorge at Gordale is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the whole of the Dales. With two waterfalls and 100m limestone cliffs looming above you, walking into the ravine is like entering another world. There’s a good path that leads to the head of the scar, which gives way to the rocky bed of Gordale Beck and on further to Gordale Falls.