Category: Walks and hikes in The Yorkshire Dales

Simon’s Seat Circular Hike

August 12th, 2025

Simon’s Seat, an excellent walk in the Yorkshire Dales, can be approached via the Valley of Desolation. This alternative, 14km circular route starts from nearby to Stump Cross Caverns and takes walkers through a changing landscape. You’ll see rolling moorland, hidden valleys and gritstone outcrops, ending in panoramic views from the summit of Simon’s Seat. Read the full guide below and download the route.

😮Difficulty: Moderate – some steep sections leading up to Simon’s Seat and boggy terrain along the moorland. Otherwise clear paths with some sections of well maintained track. Good confidence with route needed.

⛰️Terrain: a mix of road, stone tracks, moorland, paved paths

↔️Distance: 14km/8.7miles

⌛Time taken: 4-5hrs

📈Ascent: 455m

Start point: Lay-by parking near Stump Cross Caverns

🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route

🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer OL2

🗺️Click here for the Komoot downloadable route

Car parking and starting the route

The route starts at a free layby on the B6265 near Stump Cross Caverns

Public transport option:

Public transport is limited but there is a bus that stops at Stump Cross Caverns. The Dales Bus 822, runs from Pocklington, York, Boroughbridge and Ripon. Find out more and get the bus timetable here.

Simon’s Seat circular hike details

Begin your hike by parking in the layby just below Stump Cross Caverns on the B6265. This is a great showcave that’s worth a visit, with plenty of underground passages to explore. They also have a fabulous cafe that serves a delicious afternoon tea too. From the layby, follow the road downhill for a few minutes to join the bridleway on the left. Head through the gate and follow the stony track called Black Hill Road. The climb is gradual and as you gain height, the landscape opens up to reveal Simon’s Seat directly in front of you, towering over the valley.

This is an area of disused mines and shake holes but you don’t have to worry about them as you’ll just continue following the track. Soon you’ll descend via a tarmaced road on your right into the tiny hamlet of High Skyreholme. There are a few houses here and route takes you through a gate on the left between two buildings. This feels wrong, and like you’re trespassing, but I promise this is a public footpath! Head through a second gate and over the river via a bridge, into open farm fields.

After crossing the fields diagonally and over a stile, you’ll meet the main track where you switch back towards the farm and follow the public footpath, signposted to Simon’s Seat and Barden Moor.

The ascent is short but sharp to the summit of Simon’s Seat, zigzagging up through moorland thick with heather and rocky outcrops until you emerge onto the open summit plateau.

The Summit of Simon’s Seat

At 485 metres, the trig on Simon’s Seat is set on a jumble of giant gritstone boulders perched on a high ridge, offering spectacular views in all directions. On a clear day, you’ll see down into Wharfedale and Nidderdale. As for the name Simon’s Seat, legend has it that a local shepherd named Simon would rest here and one day found a baby on the summit. The summit is a great place to explore, hopping across the rocks and choosing the perfect location for lunch, sheltered from the wind that frequently buffets the summit.

The route back to Stump Cross Caverns

From Simon’s Seat, follow the paved moorland track heading towards Lord’s Seat and Little Simon’s Seat, two rocky outcrops you can’t miss in the distance. One you reach these outcrops, the path becomes grassy and faint and in wet weather, very boggy underfoot. However, depending on the time of year you visit, swathes of cotton grass or purple heather, will make this section of the walk slightly more bearable if you end up having to dodge the bogs.

Continue along the same path toward Great Pock Stones, another cluster of weathered gritstone boulders rising from the moor. These formations are often overlooked, but they’re a great spot for a second break and provide a last glimpse back at Simon’s Seat before you begin the descent.

From Great Pock Stones, follow the bridleway that curves gently downhill.. The route gradually changes from a stony track, with Simon’s Set now in front of you and to your left, back to farmland. Be sure to check your route or map here as it can be easy to take the wrong path at a junction with three choices. Head through the hate but instead of following the tract, head off on a slight right to take you through farmland, over a stile and back down Craven Moor to the main road in the distance.

Eventually, you’ll rejoin the road near where you began with just a short walk back down the road to your car.

Is Simon’s Seat suitable for beginners?

Simon’s Seat is a moderate hike and good fitness is required. The elevation to the summit can feel steep but once you’re up, the rest of the route is relatively flat and downhill. Some navigation skills are needed here so either have the route on a map or download it to your phone using either the Ordnance Survey App or Komoot.

Are there facilities for the Simon’s Seat circular hike?

The only facilities are at Stump Crosss Caverns, near where you park. They have a cafe and toilets on site.

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Be sure to let me know if you do this hike or if you have any questions. Just leave them below and I’ll be happy to help, where possible!
Smearsett Scar & wild swim from Stainforth

July 5th, 2025

The Yorkshire Dales has many popular walks – the likes of Malham Cove being one you’ve no doubt heard of – but it is also underrated and unexplored in some areas. Smearsett Scar, just outside of the village of Stainforth, is a short walk in the Yorkshire Dales and much quieter. With incredible views of Pen-y-Ghent and traditional Dales scenery, this 9km circular walk follows old farm tracks and crosses limestone pavements before rising to the trig point on Smearsett Scar. It’s a great one for beginner hikers and you can even finish your hike with a swim at two different points along the River Ribble. Read the full guide below and download the route.

😮Difficulty: Easy – good paths with some waymarked. Simple navigation to the summit trig point.

⛰️Terrain: a mix of road, stone tracks and grass paths

↔️Distance: 9km/5.6miles

⌛Time taken: 3-4 hrs

📈Ascent: 360

Start point: Stainforth Car Park, BD24 9PQ

🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route

🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer OL2

🗺️Click here for the Komoot downloadable route

Smearsett Scar circular walk

Car parking and starting the route

The route starts at the car park in Stainforth. It has public toilets and costs £4.80 for 2+ hours (correct at time of writing, July 2025)

Public transport option:

There is a train station in Settle which is the next town down from Stainforth and there are public buses which run to Stainforth from Settle. Bus service number 11 runs from Clitheroe to Settle passing through Stainforth. You can view the timetable for this bus service here.

The route to Smearsett Scar starts by crossing the main road from the car park towards the river and following the signposted path to reach a single track road. This road heads downhill, crosses the River Ribble, carries on past a caravan park on the left and brings you out in front of some farm buildings. The path then becomes a track and passes in front of the farm buildings, passing through the gate and following it uphill.

Hot to get to the trig point on Smearsett Scar

The majority of this walk follows the Dales High Way, a 90 mile, long-distance route that stretches from Saltaire to Appleby-in-Westmorland. The path is signposted and crosses a couple of stiles as it ascends and descends over open farmland, limestone pavements and drystone walls, some of which date back hundreds of years. You’ll be able to see Smearsett Scar rising out from the ground with its trig point visible on the top.

The path descends to Scar Close Farm (watch out for cows) where you take a right and follow the track past some houses and head through the gate, continuing to follow the track. This is a lovely, peaceful area and you feel enclosed by the limestone outcrops on one side and sections of woodland on the other.

The track eventually veers round to the right and heads uphill towards the limestone escarpment of Smearsett Scar. There is some sort of path where other people have walked onto the summit at the end but you can also make your own way up to the trig point. At the summit, the viewpoint is stunning with the view stretching across to Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough.

Walking back to Stainforth with wild swimming detour

From the trig point, descend via the path where others have walked onto the grassy side and head for the stile at the wall. The path descends down hill through fields before joining the single track road once again when you retrace your steps back to the car park in Stainforth.

When you reach the point at which the bridge crosses the River Ribble again, you can turn right and follow the river downstream to two fanbulous wild swimming locations. The first is Stainforth Force, a powerful waterfall with a rope swing and deep pool. When the river level is low, this is a wonderful wild swimming spot but it can feel quite intimidating too. When the river level is high this becomes an incredibly dangerous place to swim and is not recommended.

Two minutes further downstream lies Eel Pool, a deep section of the river that is much calmer and more relaxing within the trees.

Is Smearsett Scar suitable for beginners?

As with any hike in hilly or mountainous areas, it’s important to remember that typical challenges will remain; navigation in the outdoors, varying terrain, changes in weather and being prepared for that, fitness and knowing how to call for help if needed. However, Smearsett Scar is a nice beginner walk, as long as you think you will be able to manage the distance and elevation gain. The route follows obvious paths, with some of these signposted, until the final stretch up to the trig point on the scar.

My two pieces of advice would be to make sure you have sturdy footwear as the terrain is a mixture of road, stone tracks, grass and a rocky summit on Smearsett Scar as well as a good idea of the route and have it downloaded to your phone.

Wild Swimming tips

The River Ribble is a fabulous place for wild swimming but it comes with risks and it’s important to be prepared. If you’re new to wild swimming check out this wild swimming blog about the benefits, how to stay safe and packing essentials.

For the River Ribble be aware of specific dangers such as undercurrents when the river level is higher, unseen objects in the water, rising river levels which can make swimming impossible and poor water quality.

For more wild swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales, check out this post below on ten of the best spots in the Yorkshrie Dales and be sure to let me know if you’ve tried this walk to Smearsett Scar or if you have any questions.
10 Wild Swimming Waterfall Spots in the Yorkshire Dales

May 21st, 2025

The Yorkshire Dales is home to some of the best waterfalls with lots of them great places to wild swim too. Discover some of the best wild swimming locations in the Yorkshire Dales in this guide.

1. Catrigg Force

A beautiful waterfall hidden in a wooded gorge; Catrigg Force has a deep pool and is an excellent wild swimming location in the Yorkshire Dales. When the river level is low, a perfect changing area is revealed directly infront of the pool and you can walk into the water easily. However, during high rain, this can become slippy and impossible to get to the edge of the pool so save this one for a period of dry weather.

Catrigg Force is just a 15 minute walk from the main car park in Stainforth. It’s an easy path to follow with a short, steep section to start and the turn off for the waterfall is signposted.

You can find the full walking route for Catrigg Force here.

2. Kisdon Force

Kisdon Force is one of the BEST wild swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales. It has two huge, deep pools to swim in. You can jump off the ledges into the pools and there is even a rope swing to play on too.

This is another place to save for settled weather and during a period of low rain. Kisdon Force is a powerful waterfall with undercurrents and a large swell and is quite intimidating, especially for wild swimming.

Access it from the small village of Keld by following the main path out the village and following the sign for Kisdon Force down through the woods. There is a steep and slippery path to navigate here to get down to the waterfalls.

3. Hardraw Force

Most famous for appearing in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner, Hardraw Force is England’s highest single drop waterfall. It drops 30m into a wonderful pool below which is perfect for wild swimming.

This is a popular waterfall and is likely to be very busy if you visit during peak times. It is also on private land and there is a small fee to access the waterfall.

You can find more information and read the full walking route for Hardraw Force here.

4. Janet’s Foss

Janet’s Foss is probably one of the most famous waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dale and is frequently visited by walkers exploring Malham Cove. Said to be haunted by Janet, Queen of the Fairies, who lives in a small cave behind the waterfall, this is an incredible place for a swim. Expect it to be busy during peak times; it’s a popular, and well known, spot!

You can find more information and download a walking route for Janet’s Foss here.

5. Cauldron Falls

Possibly one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in the Yorkshire Dales; Cauldron Falls is literally a 2 minute walk from the roadside. Located on Walden Beck, free roadside parking is available in West Burton (just be mindful of local residents and not blocking driveways). From the village, head to the beck and the waterfall is right infront of you.

The pool is deep enough for a swim and there is a small rocky overhang to the left of the waterfall which you can walk under and behind the waterfall in high flow. There are flat areas to get changed on both sides of the river.

You can find more information for finding Cauldron Falls here.

6. Leck Beck

One of the lesser known wild swimming locations in the Yorkshire Dales but one which is well worth the effort. Leck Beck is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and is best accessed from Cowan Bridge Car Park just outside Kirkby Lonsdale.

In the best interests of keeping spots like this clear of those who don’t respect them, I’ll let you discover this one for yourself and plan your own route. If you need any help finding it, drop me a message on Instagram and I’ll be happy to give you some clues for finding it.

7. Wain Wath Force

Located literally right by the roadside, Wain Wath Force is a stunning waterfall on the River Swale near Keld. The river here is wide and the waterfall tumbles into a deep pool below. The rocks are perfect for jumping off (just make your own judgements for whether this is safe). There is space for one car on the roadside but it is much nicer to walk here from Keld as you’ll then be able to visit another waterfall on the way.

Check out this walking route for Wain Wath Force on the OS App or Komoot here.

8. Thornton Force

A big boy waterfall, this one is well worth a visit. It’s part of the Ingleton Waterfall Trail, which you’ll have to pay a hefty price to visit but it’s worth it.

Thornton Force isn’t always this *flowy* and when it isn’t an angry, raging beast, this is a wonderful wild swimming spot. You can get changed at the side and even walk behind the waterfall!

9. Buckden Beck

This one is more of a dipping spot than a proper swimming spot but the location is beautiful and this makes up for that. The Buckden Beck waterfall is located a 20-ish minute walk from the car park in Buckden, follwing the beck straight out the back of the campsite and up to the waterfall.

It’s a lovely little spot for a dip, with a flat area to get changed to the left. The pool isn’t particularly deep or large but it’s a fun little place to cool down or dunk into the cold water.

10. Cotter Force

One of the most accessible waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales, Cotter Force is a five minute walk from the roadside parking just outside of Hawes.

From the layby, follow the public footpath up the beck and the waterfall will quickly come into view. The pool is another great one for swimming with flat areas to get changed on the side.

If wild swimming is new to you, check out this blog I wrote about why wild swimming is so popular and why you should DEFINITELY start and remember to always think about water safety before diving right in!

Let me know if you’ve ever visited any of these waild swimming locations or if they’re on your list; I love to hear from you!

Or, take a look at some of my wild swimming must haves on Amazon (contains affiliate links).
Yorkshire Dales waterfall – Hardraw Force

February 18th, 2025
Hardraw Force is England’s highest single drop waterfall and it drops 30m into a deep pool below. Used as a filming location in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner, the waterfall is spectacular. It sits within the grounds of the Green Dragon Inn, which dates all the way back to the 13th century and the walk to it is short, accessible and family friendly. The walk from the car park takes no more than ten minutes to reach the waterfall.

Please note that Hardraw Force is located on private land and there is an admission cost for visiting the waterfall. Access to it is via the on-site heritage centre.

How to get to Hardraw Force

The walk to Hardraw Force starts from the car park behind the Green Dragon Inn (DL8 3LZ) located just outside Hawes. It takes less than ten minutes along good paths. There are numerous other trails above the waterfall through the woodland that you can also explore.

The visitor centre, cafe and public toilets can be found at the end of the car park and access to the waterfall is through the visitor centre.

Please note there is an admission cost to visit the waterfall. Parking is free but there is a £4 admission cost per adult to visit the waterfall. This is via card payment and discounts are available for families and seniors if the heritage centre is open. If it is closed, the £4 payment per person is made via the card reader on the turnstiles. (Information correct at time of writing February 2025)

The path leads directly to the waterfall through the woods and you can view it from both sides of the river by crossing the bridge next to the footpath.

Can you swim in Hardraw Force?

Yes! There are no signs up to say that swimming is not permitted.

Hardraw Force is a great place for a swim with easy entry to the water and a deep pool to swim in. Standing alongside the waterfall is a breath-taking experience and you can really feel the force of the water as it rushes down from above. Some of the rocks can get slippery though and as always, take care in cold water.

Hardraw Force Information
- Parking: The car park behind the Green Dragon Inn at Bellow Hill, Hardraw (DL8 3LZ)
- Dog friendly: Well behaved and well-controlled dogs welcome
- Facilities: the car park has a toilet block and the on-site Heritage Centre has a tea room. Check their website for opening times.
- Walk time: 10 minutes from the car park
- Accessibility: The path directly to the waterfall is levelled and gravel so is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The other paths surrounding the waterfall and the higher path is uneven and prone to rockfall so great care should be taken here.
Take a look at this video I made on Instagram about Hardraw Force;

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A post shared by I Z Z Y | UK Walks & Hikes | Wild Swim | Adventure Travel (@wild_0utdoors)

Hardraw Force is one of my favourite waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales but it does get busy. I recommend visiting during the off seasons and on a week day if possible. Be sure to let me know if you’ve been here or if you plan on visiting. If you enjoyed this post, let me know and be sure to check out Catrigg Force, another impressive Yorkshire Dales waterfall.
The Valley of Desolation – circular walk

November 12th, 2024
For a lower-level walk in the Yorkshire Dales that still packs in a real sense of adventure, head to the Valley of Desolation. With beautiful views, rewarding walking, history, ruins, stepping stones, the most dangerous stretch of water in the UK, thick forest and more, this tranquil valley is somewhere you shouldn’t miss. There are plenty of walks in the area and this guide will help you plan a day out along the lower valley. There’s even a hidden waterfall thrown in for good measure.

Where is the Valley of Desolation?

On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, lies the Valley of Desolation. It links the River Wharfe to Barden Fell and continues onto the peak of Simon’s Seat at 485m high. Named after a storm in 1826 that completely desolated the valley, it’s a place that feels wild and tranquil, even though it lies in the well-maintained estate of Bolton Abbey.

The Valley of Desolation is also home to a wonderful waterfall that’s worth visiting too. It has a shallow pool at the bottom and can be a bit tricky to find. That’s because it’s not on the main path and not signposted. You can find the waterfall though by following the walk route below.

Strid Wood and The Strid

Strid Wood is home to one of the largest remains of sessile Oak Trees in the Yorkshire Dales and between it runs the impressive River Wharfe. This ancient woodland is one of the most visited in the Yorkshire Dales. It is a stunning spot to see all the changing colours of autumn. Known for its wide variety of flora and fauna including bluebells and wild garlic, Strid Wood is also home to an abundance of wildlife including deer, kingfishers and woodpeckers.

Throughout Strid Wood are plenty of colour coded nature trails you can follow. In 1810, the 6^th Duke of Devonshire opened Strid Wood and the public were able to walk along the nature trails. Now, the trails follow surfaced paths through the woodland. The green trail is wheelchair and pushchair friendly.

The Strid

At one point, the River Wharfe narrows dramatically forcing the full volume of the river through a carved out narrow gap in the riverbed. The water rushes through this section and rock has been worn down to create a narrow channel with hidden caves and severe undercurrents. Found in the heart of The Strid, to see it up close you’ll want to be on the right side of the river as you follow it downstream. The Strid is one of, if not THE most, dangerous stretches of river in the UK. It’s thought to have a 100% fatality rate as people who have fallen or jumped in are sucked underwater with the current.

Take notice of the signs along the riverbank here, stay back from the edge and stay out of the water.

Where is parking for the Valley of Desolation?

The Bolton Abbey Estate has multiple car parks but this walk is best started at either the Riverside Car Park at the Cavendish Pavillion or the Barden Bridge Car Park.

If you choose to park at the Riverside Car Park, please note that there is a £15 charge.The funds raised from this go back into maintaining the estate.

Starting at the Barden Bridge car park means you’ll do this walk slightly differently, seeing The Strid first, then the waterfall and finally the woodland.

Is there public transport to the Valley of Desolation?

Arriving by bus

There are multiple bus services that stop at Bolton Abbey which can all be found on the “Find Us” section of the Bolton Abbey website;

The timetable for these bus services is at www.dalesbus.org

Arriving by train

The closest train stations to Bolton Abbey are Skipton and Ilkley. It’s best to then get a taxi to Bolton Abbey.

How long is the walk through the Valley of Desolation?

This walk to see The Strid, Strid Woodland and the waterfall is a short 7.9km but you’ll find yourself stopping regularly. If you include a dip in the waterfall and a visit to the cafe then this walk will take you most of the day.

There is also the option to extend your walk by heading up to the summit of Simon’s Seat by continuing up the path from the waterfall.

Is the Valley of Desolation family friendly?

Yes – the paths through Strid Wood and along each side of the River Wharfe are well maintained and easy to follow. Children love paddling in the river down by the stepping stones and keen hikers with little legs enjoy the walk up to Simon’s Seat if they’re used to the challenge.

Are there facilities within the Valley of Desolation?

Yes – lots of them! There are four main car parks on the Bolton Abbey Estate with facilities at some of them.

The Cavendish Pavillion has toilets, a café with a resident baker and a little visitor centre/shop.

Bolton Abbey Car Park is close to the village centre and is a great access point for the priory ruins and stepping stones. Within the village, there are tea rooms, a gift shop, Post Office and a bookshop.

Can you swim in the Valley of Desolation?

Swimming in The Strid is incredibly dangerous and sternly warned against from the signs along the river bank. Much further upstream and downstream there are numerous swimming and paddling spots. Note that the River Wharfe has strong currents and hidden debris underneath.

The waterfall within the Valley of Desolation is a great place for a secluded dip but unfortunately, not deep enough for a proper swim.

Valley of Desolation walk route and map

Download the Ordnance Survey route and map here.

1. Starting point at the Riverside Car Park at the Cavendish Pavillion.

2. Cross the bridge from outside the cafe and immediately turn left, following the riverside path towards the woods. The River Wharfe should be on your left here. After going through the gate, follow the sign to the right, up through the woods. It is signposted for the Valley of Desolation.

3. Meeting the road, follow it for a few minutes and look for a wooden gate on the right. Follow this path across the field and to the track which then winds through the trees, eventually opening up again. Keep left and follow the path to the viewpoint with a bench.

4. This is where the waterfall is hidden.Head down this steep path, cross the wooden bridge over the river and then keep right. The path here is a bit overgrown but it will lead you right to the base of the waterfall. Retrace your steps back to the road and this time turn right. You’ll reach a small bridge with a footpath that leads towards the river. Follow this upstream.

5. Following the path up through the woods, it will lead away from the river and uphill. There’s a great view down to The Strid at one point. When you reach the bridge, cross it to get to the other side.

6. Follow the river downstream and eventually reach The Strid. This is where the river narrows and the water is pushed between a narrow gap in the rocks. You can walk along the edge of the rocks here when the river level is lower but the rocks are slippery so be careful. Do not enter the water here. Follow the riverside path downstream back to the Riverside Car Park.

A – alternative car park at Barden Bridge.

Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own. You can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

What else is there to do in the Valley of Desolation?

A walk up Simon’s Seat and Barden Moor is worth the effort as views on a clear day are beautiful. Barden Moor and Barden Fell is suitable for hikers with more experience as self navigation will be needed.

The priory ruins are worth a visit too as well as the stepping stones. These are both slightly further down river but within walking distance of the car park.

Good to know
- Grouse shooting takes place on Barden Moor and Barden Fell from 12^th August to 14^th. These areas remain open during this time.
- Barden Moor and Barden Fell can sometimes be closed during spells of dry weather due to fire risks. In this case, the Valley of Desolation would be included in this closure.
- Dogs are not permitted within the Valley of Desolation
- The green nature trail through Strid Wood from the Cavendish Pavilion to the Strid is pushchair and wheelchair friendly
Take a look at this video of the Valley of Desolation and let me know if you visit or plan on visiting.

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If you want another idea for a walk in the Yorkshire Dales then take a look at this walk through Troller’s Gill. It’s a short walk but you’ll need to be brave as it’s considered to be haunted!

Short Yorkshire Dales hike; Troller’s Gill

All the details and downloadable OS route for this short walk through Troller’s Gill, a haunted ravine, in the Yorkshire Dales.

by wild0utdoors 7th November 202317th November 2025
Jubilee and Victoria Cave from Langcliffe

March 19th, 2024
Looking for some of the best caves to visit in the Yorkshire Dales National Park? Jubilee and Victoria Cave are both free to visit and are in a wonderful location on Attermire Scar. The caves are family friendly and easy to access from multiple start points. This 6.8km walk starts in Langcliffe and visits both caves but be sure to keep an eye out for other hidden caves. Get the full route and downloadable OS map here.

Jubilee and Victoria Cave overview

Jubilee and Victoria Cave from Langcliffe route details

Starting in the village of Langcliffe from the parking area, the route starts with some steep uphill walking all the way towards Jubilee Cave. Turn left out of the parking area and head uphill until you see a path through a wooden gate. It is signposted so follow this path uphill following the wall.

The path winds its way to the right before heading higher up the hillside towards some trees in the distance. Eventually, you’ll meet up with the road again but it’s a right turn here and onto a maintained farm track.

Carry on walking and head straight past the farm buildings on your right until you reach a gate. Head straight through the gate and towards the rocky outcrop ahead of you. You’ll need to retrace some of these steps later so remember this gate! Keep an eye out for a ladder stile on the left as just ahead of this is Jubilee Cave, slightly up the hill. The right hand entrance is just in sight and you’ll need to detour off the path to reach it.

How to find Jubilee Cave

Jubilee Cave has a double entrance and the main passage is split into two parallel tunnels separated by a wall. The right hand entrance is easy to walk straight into and goes back around 20 metres or so until you reach a dead end. Look to your right and you’ll see some sunlight creeping through and if you look to your left there’s a little “window” in the rock which allows you to see through into the other passage. The left entrance requires a bit of a duck down to avoid hitting your head on the rocks as the roof is a little lower in there. It’s only small but it’s still a fun place to explore and the photo opportunity from inside the cave looking out onto the countryside is one not to be missed.

One of the things I geek out over with caves is the history behind them and Jubilee is a right corker of a history lesson! In the late 19th century, archaeological excavations took place in the cave and the findings were impressive; not only were artefacts from when the Romans ruled found here but there were also materials from as far back as the Iron Age and Mesolithic era discovered in the cave! It’s crazy to imagine how this landscape was used all those years ago.

How to find Victoria Cave

Once you’ve explored the cave, it’s time to head back the way you came, down the track and back towards that gate I told you to remember. Once you reach the gate, the path heads left up the hillside and through a wooden swinging gate before following a stone wall on your right hand side. After a few minutes, you’ll see a step, well trodden path cutting up the grassy bank to the left. Follow this and you’ll reach Victoria Cave.

Victoria Cave history

Its huge entrance was discovered by chance in 1837 and got its name from the then Queen Victoria. Its discovery is quite a story. A man named Michael Horner discovered it when he crawled inside a small hole in search of his dog. As he squirmed through, he discovered the bones of animals, coins and metal objects. After further excavation years later, archaeologists found the fossilised bones of elephants and hippos as well as more Roman artefacts. This whole area would have once been covered in a tropical sea near the equator!

The entrance we go through today is actually an excavated one and the original entrance first discovered is up to the right of the cave. The main chamber inside is huge but completely natural; it’s just the entrance that has been opened up.

Once you’re inside the chamber, be sure to look up and back behind you to really get a sense of the scale of this place. There’s a sign and a metal bar about half way in the cave advising you not to go further; this is because of the risk of falling rocks.

To leave this cave, head back out and this time look for a path heading down the slope to the left. Follow this path all the way until there is a gap in the wall where you turn right.

Attermire Scar

The section you’ve just walked under is Attermire Scar – also known for lots of hidden caves. One of the most well known is Attermire Cave, the keyhole in the rock race high up on the scar.

I ventured up there once with my dog Ricoh and the views are insane from up here. However, this isn’t a cave you should venture into without a professional so best to admire it from a distance.

The route back to Langcliffe

The way back is relatively straightforward and you just need to follow the path alongside the wall before it cuts right slightly towards the rock face and carries on downhill until you can see the town of Settle in the distance. Be sure to follow the path right when you meet a wall with the option of only going right or left. Left will take you into Settle and right is what you want – back to Langcliffe. You’ll come out exactly where you started, just up from the car park.

Map and Key locations for Victoria and Jubilee Caves

Access the route on the OS Map App here.

Locations

1: Starting location for the walk from the parking area in Langcliffe

2: Jubilee Cave

3: Victoria Cave

4. The base of Attermire Scar

5: Optional trig point

Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

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Top Tips for Jubilee and Victoria Cave
- If the parking area is full in Langcliffe there are a couple of other options; there’s a small parking lot at Winskill Stones Nature Reserve which starts higher up and closer to Jubilee Cave or there’s also ample parking in Settle at Greenfoot Car Park although you will have to adapt your route slightly if you choose to park in either of these
- Please be mindful that caves are dangerous places and even though these are open to the public, be sure to adhere to all warning signs and not to cross any safety barriers
- Remember to take a headtorch!
- There are no facilities on route
- There is a trig point that you could make an optional visit to – the best way to do this is after visiting Victoria Cave by following the fence line up for a short while and then using your navigation skills to reach the trig.
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Catrigg Force; wild swimming in a hidden gorge

February 21st, 2024

The Yorkshire Dales is home to many incredible waterfalls and one, hidden in a wooded gorge not far from the village of Stainforth, is arguably one of the best waterfalls for wild swimming in the Yorkshire Dales; Catrigg Force. You can hear it before you can see it but what awaits you at the bottom of the woodland is better than you would expect. Cascading dramatically down a step drop from the ledge above, Catrigg Force is a stunning sight and in wet weather it becomes a moody and powerful force of nature. The walk to the waterfall from Stainforth is short so it’s perfect if you’re time limited or it can be tied in with a longer hike around the area such as Jubilee and Victoria Caves.

Where is Catrigg Force?

Catrigg Force is only about a 30 minute short walk from the village of Stainforth in the Yorkshire Dales. The route to the waterfall follows along the well maintained Pennine Bridleway path to a wooded area where the waterfall is located. It is also signposted all the way from the village just to make it a little easier too.

Where do I park for Catrigg Force?

In Stainforth there is a public car park where you can park before the short walk to Catrigg Force.

Parking for Catrigg Force address: Stainforth Car Park, BD24 9PQ

Cost of parking:

2 Hours £3.50

24 Hours £6.50

There are also public toilets and an electric car charging point here too.

How do you get to Catrigg Force?

There’s a couple of ways to get to Catrigg Force but I’ll cover the shortest and most direct route here from Stainforth village.

Distance: 1.55km one way

Time taken: 30 minutes one way

Elevation: 107m (uphill to the waterfall and downhill on the way back)

How do you get to Catrigg Force

From Stainforth car park, head out the main entrance and turn right up Main Road. Depending on the weather, when you get to the end of the road you can either head left up Goat Lane which will bring you out to a grassy area and some stepping stones on your right to cross the river. Or, if the river levels are too high, carry on following the road round to the right and as you cross the bridge there will be a little wooden sign on your left which leads you along a path alongside the river.

Eventually, you’ll arrive at a turning circle and the village green. There’s a road to the right which passes in front of a couple of houses and eventually onto a stony track which is the path that will take you straight to Catrigg Force.

The walk from here is the most direct route to the waterfall; just follow the track and eventually you’ll reach a metal gate. Don’t go through but instead look to your left and there’s a wooden swing gate and a sign showing the way to Catrigg Force. Follow this path to the woods and down the well worn path into the wooded gorge. You’ll reach a fallen tree trunk and the waterfall is up river on the right.

Retrace your steps to get back to the car park.

To download the OS route onto your phone, click here.

If you use the Komoot app you can also download the route to your phone here.

Can you swim in Catrigg Force?

This is an incredible place for a swim so yes, absolutely! The pool at the bottom of the waterfall is stepped and deep enough for a proper swim and on a nice day, I hear this can be a popular spot amongst those in the know. The river that flows down from it will need a bit of careful navigation across the slippery rocks or, take your shoes off and get your feet wet.

There’s a useful fallen tree trunk on the river bank which is the perfect place to get changed before making your way up the river to the pool at the base of the waterfall.

I visited this waterfall on a day where we’d had relentless rain in the week before quietly hoping for a wild swim but knowing deep down, it was probably going to be too strong to even consider. My hunch was correct and the water was SO powerful at the base of Catrigg Force and too dangerous to swim in.

I’d avoid going for a swim here during or immediately after wet weather and leave it for a time of settled weather when the water will be calmer.

Check out this video of Catrigg Force…

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A post shared by I Z Z Y | UK Walks & Hikes | Wild Swim | Adventure Travel (@wild_0utdoors)

For more UK hiking routes check out the rest of More UK walks, waterfalls and adventures or check out my Instagram page.

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Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss walk

February 14th, 2024
It’s highly unlikely that you’ve never heard of the Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet’s Foss walk. Amongst the top ten geological wonders of Britain, it’s no surprise that people revisit over and over again. This 14km loop takes in all the main sights. From the limestone pavement of Malham Cove, onwards to Malham Tarn, down to the huge ravine of Gordale Scar and finally to the waterfall known as Janet’s Foss. You can get the full route and download the map here.

Walking route for Malham Cove

Depending on where you choose to park to start the hike, the towering limestone cliffs of Malham Cove will be your first stop. After heading along the main road through and out the village, you can’t really go wrong here; there’s a few different paths to Malham Cove but I prefer to take the Pennine Way path that cuts in front of the YHA; even on a busy day this route always seems to be quieter and I enjoy being higher up than the main path which runs along Malham Beck. This part of the Pennine Way is a short section making up part of the 268 mile route which runs from the Scottish border all the way down to the Derbyshire hills and as you get closer to Malham Cove, the huge curved limestone cliff dominates the view.

Malham Cove

The limestone cliffs that make up “The Cove” as it’s affectionately known in the Yorkshire Dales, tower 80m into the air and span a whopping 300m wide. It’s no wonder that Malham Cove appears in the top ten geological wonders of Britain and this route will take you right to the bottom of it. Look up (but not for too long because that neck strain will start to kick in) and keep an eye out for climbers here too. This spectacular limestone cliff is well loved and a popular spot with hikers so don’t be shocked if you have to share the view with a rather large crowd but even with others around you, it’s impossible not to stop and appreciate the sheer size and beauty of The Cove.

From the bottom, it’s not obvious the treat which awaits you at the top of the cliffs. Once you’re ready, follow the path that leads around to the left to a set of around 400 stone steps heading uphill. I know, I know – 400 steps! They’ll get your heart racing for sure but take your time and I promise you that what’s at the top is worth every single step.

The limestone pavement of Malham Cove formed after the last ice age by meltwater mostly from Malham Tarn. A large waterfall would have once flowed over the edge of the cove but today, any water disappears into the hidden cave systems and the stream from Malham Tarn disappears around a mile from here. The limestone blocks make up this pavement which has been characterised by erosion and weathering from the elements and you might recognise it if you’re a Harry Potter fan as it appeared in The Deathly Hallows film.

Heading to Malham Tarn

The view down the valley back towards Malham from here is spectacular on a nice day and as you hop, skip (or simply walk) along the limestone blocks, you’ll see that the path of The Pennine Way heads away from the top of the cove. Following this will lead you through a rocky area known as Dry Valley and between Ing Scar, the site of a settlement which dates from the Iron-Age onwards. Once further along, the path cuts to the right and around the side of Comb Hill and brings you out onto more open ground with Malham Tarn not too far ahead of you.

Malham Tarn

Malham Tarn, a glacial lake and officially classed as a nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to an abundance of wildlife and plants, is rarely busy. A road runs right near the tarn with a large parking area so you might see a few fellow walkers but on the whole, this is a peaceful area perfect for a lunch stop. If you do stop here on a nice day, please don’t be tempted to enter the water for a swim; this is a protected site and wild swimming is prohibited.

Malham Tarn is an incredibly important historical site with fascinating history behind it particularly during the Stone Age. As open water is rare in the area, it naturally attracted wildlife so hunters of the Stone Age descended on here to hunt. Along the shoreline, the remains of campsites and stone tools have even been found!

Take some time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings here before retracing your steps and following the footpath (it can get boggy here so be careful) along the grass opposite the car park for Malham Tarn.

Walking route to Gordale Scar

The path back down towards the other side of the top of Malham Cove won’t take you long however this is an area of water sinks so it can get extremely boggy in places. The path heads gently downhill alongside another rocky scar before bringing you out at the top of Malham Cove once again. It’s worth stopping here as the view over the whole of Malham Cove is breathtaking and you can really get a sense of the size of this natural wonder from here. Just don’t get too close to the edge as it’s quite the drop!

Heading away from Malham Cove, you’ll cross a road and traverse along the edge of a hill before reaching a road. There’s often a snack hut here so you can easily grab a little snack or a drink if it’s open before heading left and following the well maintained footpath just off the road which follows Gordale Beck. After roughly ten minutes you’ll reach the gorge known as Gordale Scar.

Gordale Scar

Formed during the ice age when glacial meltwater cut down through faults in the rock which carved it deeper and deeper over time. The gorge is incredibly deep and a waterfall rushes over the end finishing off the dramatic look.

The gorge dominates your viewpoint as you get closer and closer to the entrance and it’s easy to see why this is a place much loved and has been the source of inspiration for many pieces of literature and artwork.

The waterfall here provides a fun, and slippery, grade 1 scramble if you fancied it but for this route you’ll need to retrace your steps back out of the gorge towards the main road once again. It’s just a short walk to the beautiful waterfall of Janet’s Foss.

Walking route to Janet’s Foss

If you love a legend, then Janet’s Foss will be right up your street. If not, it’s a beautiful waterfall nestled in the woodland worth stopping at and is an excellent place for a wild swim so there really is something for everyone.

The waterfall, maybe unsurprisingly, gets its name from a local folk tale that claims the small waterfall is home to Janet; also known as Queen of the Fairies. Although the waterfall may seem at first peaceful and magical, dark secrets of witch craft and black magic lurk in the water. Some visitors claimed to have encountered an evil force which appears as a green mist on the water and and feeds off the aura of anyone in its path.

Fortunately, we didn’t encounter any evil forces on our trip here but I can confirm that the water was breathtakingly cold!

Your visit to Janet’s Foss marks the end of this circular route around the gems of Malham and all that’s left is to head away from the waterfall through the woodland and following the path which eventually leads you out to the bottom end of the village of Malham.

Map and key locations for Malham Cove walking route

Access the route on the OS Map App here.

Locations

1: Parking in Malham

2: Base of Malham Cove with steps to left side leading up to the limestone pavement at the top

3: Malham Tarn

4. Gordale Scar

5. Janet’s Foss waterfall

Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the route for his walk here.

Top Tips for Malham Cove, Goredale Scar and Janet’s Foss
- This is a very popular destination for hiking so the car park fills up quickly; get there super early or go during the off season.
- There’s some lovely little cafes and pubs in Malham which are worth visiting after your hike
- Take care on the limestone pavement at the top of Malham Cove; they can be very slippery in the wet and require sure footedness to cross
- Malham Tarn is home to a unique variety of plants and wildlife. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is home to internationally rare species so wild swimming is not permitted.
- Scrambling over the waterfall is Gordale Scar is an excellent route but it can be slippery and dangerous in the wrong conditions.
For more UK hiking routes check out the rest of my website or check out my Instagram page.

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Happy adventuring and here’s a bonus video of the walk…

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Short Yorkshire Dales hike; Troller’s Gill

November 7th, 2023
In an area of abandoned mines, in the Wharfedale area of the Yorkshire Dales, lies Troller’s Gill. It’s a collapsed limestone cavern shrouded in history, myth and mysterious inhabitants. Troller’s Gill is home to naughty trolls, hideous goblins and cheeky pixies but is also haunted by a fearsome barghest. This monstrous black dog with razor sharp teeth is said to have the power to turn unsuspecting hikers to stone. It’s even said to have possibly inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel “The Hound of the Baskervilles”. So, if you’re feeling brave enough to take on these haunting creatures, read on!

Troller’s Gill – key details

Difficulty: Moderate due to some scrambling sections

Distance: 2.6km

Total ascent: 126m

Est Time: 1 hour

Starting location: Roadside parking on New Road. Find location on Google Maps here.

Parking Cost: Free but please be mindful of not blocking access.

Dog friendly: Yes if capable of scrambling sections over rocks

Key features: an abandoned mine to explore, a stream that appears as if from nowhere and a wonderfully rocky ravine.

*Please note: this route is impassable in and immediately after heavy rain.

A quiet walk around Troller’s Gill

Troller’s Gill is near the villages of Appletreewick and Skyreholme but as we drove closer to the roadside parking I really started to question whether the photos I’d seen online were real or not. The ravine is completely hidden from the roadside and impossible to spot unless you know where you are looking. Fortunately, this makes Troller’s Gill a quiet place to explore and on a sunny Spring day, we had the whole place to ourselves. The dark history of this ravine though is what makes your visit here exciting; amongst the nooks and crannies of each towering side of the ravine wait trolls ready to hurl rocks down on passing hikers, evil pixies who stalk those who enter the ravine and bloodsucking gnomes to name but a few.

It’s really not a place to visit alone…

BUT if you manage to escape all these without harm then you’ll be rewarded with a stunning, albeit eerie, walk.

Where is Troller’s Gill and how do I get there?

From the roadside parking, take the track through the gate which cuts across the field. This path winds gently downhill until you’re in a small valley with hills on either side of you. Within about 15 minutes of leaving your car, look to your right and you’ll see the disused mine workings of Gill Head Mine. This was abandoned in the early 1980’s when mining for fluorite ceased.

Gill Head Mine

The entrance to the mine is behind a large metal gate with collapsed rockfall in front of it.

Entrance to the mine is not recommended as it is not maintained and the chance of sudden collapse is high. However, being the danger mouse that I am, I checked it out for you! Once past the gate, the huge echoey and incredibly slippy tunnel leads down to a flooded section and a ladder. Up the ladder and further into the mine are more flooded chambers.

Be aware that there are other abandoned mine workings and caves in this area and they should not be entered. Exercise caution while exploring as there may be hidden potholes and dangers.

Troller’s Gill route

Fom the mine, the route takes you further down towards the beck which flows down to the village of Skyreholme. This is a picture perfect place for a lunch stop if the weather permits and feels like the perfect place for pixies and trolls to be hiding!

As you head back upstream, keep a beady eye out for another stream that seems to appear from nowhere beneath your feet! This is where the river at the head of the ravine disappears underground before reappearing again at the foot of the ravine. In wet weather, the river will be in full flow through the ravine which is why this route becomes impassable in wet weather.

This is where the fun starts; you’ll need to find your way up and over rocky, scrambly sections following the river upstream to get out of the gorge. Be sure to look up to check that those pesky trolls aren’t aiming rocks at you! There is no escape route so once you commit you’ll either need to retrace your steps or continue your route. The scramble is relatively straightforward and you’ll wind with the river through the gorge but it can be slippery and it’s a good idea to be prepared for wet feet!

At the end of the gorge you need to keep walking until you reach a small waterfall with a footbridge crossing the river. Cross the river here and take the path uphill which will lead you back onto the top and you’ll be able to see your starting point in the distance. Eventually, you’ll join up with the wide, stoney path that you started on, taking you back to the safety of your car and free from the watchful eyes of the creatures lurking behind you!

Map and key locations for Troller’s Gill

Access the downloadable route on the OS Map App here.

Locations

1: Roadside parking in a small layby on New Road.

2: Access to the disused and abandoned Gill Head Mine.

3: The point at Skyreholme Beck where you head back towards Troller’s Gill.

4: The ravine of Troller’s Gill.

5: The end of the ravine where you cross the river over a small footbridge.

Komoot App

Have you ever tried Komoot? Komoot allows you to access routes planned by others or plan your own which you can then download to your phone to follow while you are out. Komoot is free to join and access and you can find the downloadable route for his walk here.

Top Tips for Troller’s Gill
- Parking is limited in the closest layby but there is another layby slightly further down New Road and additional parking on the B6265 down from Stump Cross Caverns. This additional parking will increase the length of the route.
- In particularly wet weather or immediately after wet weather, this route will be impassable as it follows the river upstream.
- There are no facilities on this route.
- The abandoned mine should not be accessed without caution; it is not maintained and the passages at the end are flooded. The track down is slippy and rocky and there is a high risk of a trip or fall here.
- Appropriate footwear is needed for this route; waterproof walking boots highly recommended
- The scramble is slippery in places and requires sure footedness and confidence on rough, scrambly terrain.
For additional UK outdoor adventures, wild swimming, hiking routes and more, check my other blog posts here and follow me @Wild_0utdoors on Instagram.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about new UK routes, the best swimming spots, international adventure and ideas of things to do for your next adventure.

Happy adventuring!

Izzy