This week's walk takes in Littondale, Malham Tarn and the limestone between
From Arncliffe this walk heads steeply into the moors and limestone scars which separate Littondale and Malham Tarn, returning on a different track for an excellent circular walk. This walk can also be started from Malham Tarn.
PARK near the Falcon Inn in Arncliffe, Littondale next to the village green. The village is where much of the present TV series of All Creatures Great and Small is filmed; those who are watching it will recognise the green itself and church as well as the lovely drive up the dale. Head up the side road just to the east/right of the pub.
After 200 metres where the lane bends left a well signed footpath heads directly south west up the steep hillside. This is the Monks Road. After a climb of nearly 150 metres the path levels out. The path is in good condition as it winds its way through exposed limestone rock whilst remaining perched over a steep valley of Cowside Beck to your right. It is a lonely place with great views particularly to the north.
After 2.5 miles the Monk's Road (now a bridlepath) turns in a more southerly direction and rather surprisingly meets an isolated farm, the outbuildings and farmhouse of Middle House. The public path skirts the farm on its west/right side before a faint track heads in a more westerly direction (almost opposite the main building). The path heads for a wide col between two areas of higher ground. On your left is the fine viewpoint of Great Close Hill with the remains of a fort on its summit. It is worth the 20-minute detour from the col and in good weather makes a fine picnic spot with great views over Malham Tarn. Return to the col and drop down 60 metres to the banks of the tarn.
Malham Tarn lays claim to be the highest lake in England (378m) and in the past was certainly much bigger with the land on the west bank under water. It is owned and managed by the National Trust, a fine nature reserve. It is a mecca for bird lovers. On meeting the path that circles the tarn turn left. The track sticks to the tarn for 200 metres before bending to the south and after crossing some flat land meets a gate. Pass through the gate and take the farm track heading south east for half a mile to a quiet road. Turn left for 100 metres to the road end at Streetgate.
Arncliffe Scar Bank above Hawkswick Cote
The 3.5-miles return to Littondale takes to the high moors on a track that generally holds a north east direction (signed to Hawkswick). After the initial half mile the farm track comes to an awkward and often wet gate near a stream. Having picked your way carefully over the marsh (or simply got wet feet) the path climbs steadily through picturesque limestone outcrops before dropping more steeply into Littondale and towards the small hamlet of Hawkswick.
On your right is the deep valley of Cote Gill. Walking high above the gill makes for some lovely views up and down Littondale. It is easiest to return to Arncliffe by turning left onto the road just before entering Hawkswick. It is little more than one mile.
Difficulty: Adding in Malham Tarn makes for a long day but the tracks are good and the miles fly by.
Eat and Drink: The Falcon in Arncliffe is a pub full of character.
Be Prepared: The route description and sketch map only provide a guide to the walk. You must take out and be able to read a map (O/S Explorer OL2) and in cloudy/misty conditions a compass (essential on this walk). You must also wear the correct clothing and footwear for the outdoors. Whilst every effort is made to provide accurate information, walkers head out at their own risk.
Please observe the Countryside Code and park sensibly.
Jonathan runs Where2walk, a walking company based in the Yorkshire Dales. He has written 3 books on walking in the Dales; 'The Yorkshire 3 Peaks', 'The Dales 30' mountains and the 'Walks without Stiles' book. Buy them direct from Where2walk
Jonathan runs Navigation Training Courses. The first 2026 beginners course is on Sat March 14 from Long Preston.
The 2026 Mini walking breaks programme is also available to book. Details on the website.
Where2walk.co.uk features 100s of walks with descriptions across Yorkshire and beyond, from easy strolls to harder climbs. Visit the website for details of all these walks, guiding days and navigation course.