Malham

One of the most interesting and entertaining walks in the Dales; The circuit of Janet's Foss, Goredale Scar and then across to Malham Cove. Limestone scenery at it's best.

I suppose I really picked the wrong time of year to do this walk. The woods approaching the Foss should be done when the wild garlic is in bloom because then the smell is absolutely divine. It's still a lovely walk and the Foss, even though I could hear it, is hidden until nearly the last minute.

Then it was out into open countryside before the claustrophobic walk in to Gordale Scar. As expected, this was the busiest part of the walk but by normal standards, it was still fairly quiet. Two lads were attempting to climb the waterfall to the hanging valley above but the going was just too slippy so they turned back. A robin came out to greet me but flew off when it realised I had no food for it (it did pose for some nice photos though) and a lovely mongrel dog brought me his stick to throw as his owners were more interested in the Scar than him!

The days are short at this time of year but I still took the path across to The Cove as no visit to Malham is complete without seeing it's amazing limestone pavement and sheer cliffs. Bad hips and bad knees make the walk across the pavement and back down the hundred steps quite uncomfortable so I walked back to Malham village via the lane. A thoroughly enjoyable day!