Janet’s Foss is a well-know waterfall in the Yorkshire Dales and is a popular wild swimming spot. It is frequently visited by walkers exploring Malham Cove and is said to be haunted by Janet, Queen of the Fairies, who lives in a small cave behind the waterfall. This is an excellent place for a swim but expect it to be busy during peak times! Find out everything about Janet’s Foss here.
😮Easy – flat
⛰️Terrain: good paths – gravel and woodland path
↔️Distance: 2km each way
⌛Time taken: 30 minutes each way
📈Ascent: 15m
Start point: Chapel Gate Car Park, Malham (BD23 4DJ)
🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route.
🗺️Download the route on Komoot
🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer OL2 Southern & Western Yorkshire Dales
The quickest way to get to Janet’s Foss
Park in Malham (there is a main car park at Chapel Gate and often an overflow field during busy spells). Cross the footbridge over the river, following the riverside path downstream.
The path is a stony track and follows the river downstream before turning left and then entering the woodlands.
You really can’t go wrong here; it’s signposted and there is only one path leading directly to Janet’s Foss at the end of the woods.
Is it safe to swim in Janet’s Foss?
Yes! There are rocks at the side where you can get changed easily and this also gives easy access walking into the pool. The pool isn’t particularly large but is quite deep and makes for a lovely swim!
Remember, this is a POPULAR spot so arrive either out of season, super early or much later in the evening when you’re more likely to get it to yourself.
If you would like to tie in Janet’s Foss with a longer walk around Malham Cove, check out this 14km loop taking in the best sights of Malham Cove and Janet’s Foss. Or, check out more on wild swimming here. 🙂