Attractions and Places To See around Otterburn - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Otterburn include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest. Situated in the scenic Redesdale Valley in Northumberland, this region offers a base for exploring rolling hills and quiet lanes. Otterburn lies on the edge of Northumberland National Park, providing access to expansive moorlands and tranquil riverbanks. The landscape provides opportunities for outdoor pursuits and historical exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Otterburn
- The most popular attractions is Malham Cove, a natural monument that features a 230-foot (70 m) high, gently curving cliff. The views from above the white limestone cliffs are notable.
- Another must-see spot is Janet's Foss, a forest with a waterfall. Visitors can splash around in the waterfall and its plunge pool.
- Visitors also love Gordale Scar Waterfall, a natural monument with a narrow canyon dominated by sheer rock walls. The rocky ravine features a challenging scramble.
- Otterburn is known for historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore.
- The attractions around Otterburn are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 735 upvotes and 595 photos shared.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Malham Cove
Highlight ā¢ Natural Monument
Over the last 1.5 million years, Malham was covered with huge sheets of glacial ice at least three times. As these glaciers ground over the landscape, they sculpted many awe-inspiring spectacles, including Malham Cove.
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Janet's Foss
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Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove
Highlight ā¢ Natural Monument
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Gordale Scar Waterfall
Highlight ā¢ Natural Monument
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Sharp Haw Summit
Highlight ā¢ Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
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.
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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.
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There's a good trail on the ground either from Flasby (the more interesting route) or Skipton side, and a rocky summit with a trig point - the perfect destination for a fell run
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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.
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Not accessible if your not willing to do a Little Rock climbing!
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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
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Sharp Haw SW TopĀ 321.53m P12.13 (1055ft) County of Yorkshire Definitive List Summit Yorkshire Dales National Park Definitive List Summit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Otterburn?
Otterburn is rich in history. You can explore the site of the Percy Cross (Battle Stone), which commemorates the Battle of Otterburn from 1388. Visit the historic Otterburn Mill, a working woollen mill with a museum. Other notable sites include the ruins of Shittleheugh Bastle, the Greenchesters Lime Kiln, and the impressive Otterburn Castle, now a luxury hotel. Don't miss the Church of St. John the Evangelist in the village center, which houses a piece of the original Percy Cross.
What natural features are prominent around Otterburn?
Otterburn is nestled in the beautiful Redesdale Valley, offering rolling hills and quiet lanes. The area is part of the expansive Northumberland National Park, providing stunning, unspoiled landscapes. Highlights include the secluded Featherwood Waterfall within the Otterburn Ranges, and the magnificent Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, known for its rare ferns and diverse mosses. You can also find tranquil spots like Harbottle Lake and elevated viewpoints such as Blakeman's Law Trig Point and Thirl Moor Trig Point.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Otterburn?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. While a bit further afield, Kielder Water & Forest Park offers wildlife watching, art installations, and various family activities. For a natural adventure, Janet's Foss is a beautiful waterfall where visitors can splash in the plunge pool, making it a popular spot for families. Exploring the gentler paths within Northumberland National Park also provides opportunities for family walks and wildlife spotting.
What outdoor activities can I do near Otterburn?
The region around Otterburn is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy scenic walks and mountain biking within Northumberland National Park. For specific routes, consider exploring the nearby MTB trails or hiking paths. For example, you can find various MTB Trails around Otterburn or choose from many Hiking routes around Otterburn, including easy options like the easy hikes around Otterburn.
Are there any waterfalls to visit near Otterburn?
Absolutely. The area boasts several beautiful waterfalls. Within the Otterburn Ranges, you can discover the stunning and secluded Featherwood Waterfall. Another magnificent option is Hareshaw Linn Waterfall, located within a Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its rich biodiversity. Additionally, Janet's Foss is a popular waterfall where you can splash in the plunge pool, and the dramatic Gordale Scar Waterfall offers a challenging scramble through a narrow canyon.
What is the best time to visit Otterburn for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Otterburn for outdoor activities is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and more conducive for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural landscapes of the Redesdale Valley and Northumberland National Park. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
What are some unique cultural points of interest in the area?
Beyond its natural beauty, Otterburn offers unique cultural insights. The operational Otterburn Mill provides a glimpse into the history of weaving and wool-milling, complete with a museum. A short drive away, Elsdon Village is a charming hamlet with traditional Northumbrian architecture, an ancient motte-and-bailey castle, and a well-preserved pele tower, offering a step back in time.
Can I find Roman history near Otterburn?
Yes, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall is within easy reach of Otterburn. This iconic Roman frontier offers numerous historic sites and remains of Roman forts, providing a fascinating insight into ancient history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Otterburn?
Visitors particularly appreciate the breathtaking natural beauty and geological formations. For instance, the 230-foot high, gently curving cliff of Malham Cove and the unique Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove are highly praised for their spectacular views and geological significance. The tranquil beauty of waterfalls like Janet's Foss also receives high acclaim for its serene setting and opportunities for a refreshing splash.
Are there any challenging hikes or climbs near Otterburn?
For those seeking a challenge, the dramatic Gordale Scar Waterfall offers a scramble that is quite technical in places, with sheer rock walls hundreds of feet high. It's a stunning natural wonder but requires care due to slippery and wet conditions. Additionally, some of the longer hiking routes in the wider Northumberland National Park can offer more strenuous options.
Where can I find elevated viewpoints for scenic photography?
For stunning panoramic views, head to the top of Malham Cove, where the views from above the white limestone cliffs are breathtaking. The Limestone Pavement at Malham Cove also offers impressive vistas of the surrounding green hills. Further afield, Blakeman's Law Trig Point and Thirl Moor Trig Point provide elevated perspectives of the Northumberland landscape.
Most popular attractions around Otterburn
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