Best attractions and places to see around Arncliffe include a variety of natural monuments and scenic viewpoints within the Yorkshire Dales. The region is characterized by its dramatic limestone landscapes, featuring impressive cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore geological formations that have been shaped over millions of years, offering insights into the area's natural history. Arncliffe provides access to significant natural features that are popular for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Arncliffe.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Where the scene in Harry Potter was filmed where Harry and Hermione sat in the Deathly Hallows. Harry & Hermione set up camp in a tent on the Limestone Pavement at the top of Malham Cove, scenes from the film feature views across Malhamdale including the view to Cawden and down to Malham Village and Kirkby Malham. There is amazing views from this point over the scarred landscape. Malham Cove is a 70m (230ft) high curved crag of carboniferous limestone formed after the last ice age. Meltwater, particularly from Malham Tarn, cut back the cove as it fell over the edge as a waterfall. This erosion took place more actively at the lip of the fall, hence the curved shape. The cove was formed by glaciers that plucked rock from the cliff face and carried it away, and by meltwater that eroded the cliff face after the glaciers melted. The top of the cove is a limestone pavement with a distinctive pattern of limestone blocks called clints and fissures called grykes. The grykes have a more humid and warmer microclimate than the pavement, which supports different plant life. The top of the limestone has dry, stony conditions that support plants like Rock Rose and Thyme. Malham Cove once had a waterfall that was larger than Niagara Falls. The last time water flowed over the waterfall was in the 19th century, until extreme rain in 2015. Malham Cove is a short walk from the village of Malham, and is popular with rock climbers. Malham Cove has been featured in several films and TV shows, including Wuthering Heights, the previously mentioned Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and The Trip.
1
0
Malham Cove is a large curved limestone formation a short walk from the village of Malham. It was formed by a waterfall carrying meltwater from glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age. Easy access to the cove from Malham and there are steps to the side of the cove which allow you to climb to the top. Careful very slippery at the top when on the limestone pavement in wet conditions.
1
0
The 70 metre (230ft) high, gently curving cliff of white limestone is a Yorkshire Dales gem. It has some unique and rare limestone formations at the top of the cliff. You may recognise scenes from Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows which featured the unique limestone pavement and views down to Malham Village and Kirkby Malham.
1
0
Not accessible if your not willing to do a Little Rock climbing!
3
1
Specular limestone waterfall which is understandably popular and gets very busy. For the best experience, visit on a wet and blustery autumn or winter's day when not only will the waterfall be in full flow, but you might actually get to see it without all the 'wild swimming' instagrammers
4
1
If you are feeling brave and you are good at climbing, you can go up the waterfall and follow a path upto the top of Gordale Scar, but it's not easy and the flow of the water can change daily depending on weather and rain etc so this can increase the difficulty and danger, and plus like myself you might get wet feet lol.
2
1
Gordale Scar is a stunning natural wonder which is not that hard to navigate even if you're not familiar with the area. To make your experience more enjoyable, make sure to plan your route and be prepared for the steep climb up to the top of the waterfall. Be sure to pack appropriate gear for the weather conditions, as the gorge can be slippery and wet. Wearing sturdy shoes with good grip, and bringing waterproof clothing can help ensure you have a comfortable and safe experience.
5
0
The area around Arncliffe in the Yorkshire Dales is renowned for its dramatic limestone landscapes. Highly popular spots include Malham Cove, a spectacular 70-meter high cliff, and the unique Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Another favorite is Janet's Foss, a beautiful forest waterfall with a plunge pool.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge and rewarding views, Pen-y-Ghent is a prominent summit offering incredible vistas, often tackled as part of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Malham Cove also provides breathtaking views from its summit after a climb.
The region is rich in unique geological formations. You can explore the impressive 70-meter high cliff of Malham Cove, which was sculpted by glacial ice. Above it, the Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove showcases a distinct geological feature formed over millions of years. Additionally, Gordale Scar Waterfall is set within a dramatic narrow canyon with towering rock walls.
Absolutely. Janet's Foss is a particularly family-friendly spot. This beautiful forest waterfall with its plunge pool is a popular place for visitors to splash around, especially during warmer weather.
The area around Arncliffe offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like the 'Springs Wood – Byre Bank Wood loop' or 'Malham Tarn – Kilnsey Descent loop'. There are also easy hiking options such as the 'The Falcon Inn – Queen's Arms loop from Arncliffe'. For cyclists, gravel biking routes like the 'Mastiles Lane – Yorkshire Dales National Park loop' are available. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for running, easy hikes, and gravel biking around Arncliffe.
Yes, many of the natural monuments are integrated into popular hiking routes. For instance, the path to Janet's Foss is a well-trodden footpath from Malham Village. The climb to the top of Malham Cove and its Limestone Pavement is also a popular hiking destination, often extended to Malham Tarn. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Arncliffe guide.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from spots like Malham Cove and Pen-y-Ghent. The unique geological features, such as the Limestone Pavement, are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the opportunity to explore the natural beauty, from the tranquil Janet's Foss waterfall to the dramatic Gordale Scar.
Yes, the area boasts several impressive waterfalls. Janet's Foss is a beautiful forest waterfall known for its picturesque setting and plunge pool. Another dramatic waterfall can be found at Gordale Scar, where Gordale Beck tumbles through a rocky ravine.
While the main attractions are well-known, the broader Yorkshire Dales area around Arncliffe offers many opportunities for discovery. The tips for Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove suggest continuing on to Malham Tarn, which is only an extra 10-15 minute walk and often considered worth a visit, especially in summer.
Hiking difficulties vary. Summits like Pen-y-Ghent involve steep sections and some scrambling, making them challenging. The scramble at Gordale Scar Waterfall is also described as challenging and technical. However, there are also many easy hikes available, such as the 'Queen's Arms loop from Litton', which you can find in the Easy hikes around Arncliffe guide.
The terrain is diverse, reflecting the limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales. You'll encounter well-maintained tracks, but also steep ascents, rocky scrambles, and unique features like the clints and grikes of the Limestone Pavement. Paths can be wet and slippery, especially near waterfalls like Gordale Scar, so sturdy footwear is recommended.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: