In the heart of beautiful Malham, staying with us at the Buck Inn means you’re well placed to explore a whole host of Yorkshire Dales walks. Not only will you feel that classic, warm Yorkshire embrace when you walk in from our friendly team, but you can also look forward to proper pub food and a chance to sleep in luxurious comfort if you’re looking to make a big trip of your Yorkshire Dales walks.

The unique experience of Yorkshire Dales walks puts you among England’s natural beauty as well as serving as a reminder of our rich, historical landscape. The diverse walking routes are home to some of the most stunning panoramic summits, waterfalls, limestone pavements and more; and all with such a rich history that tells a story. That’s why we’ve curated a wonderful selection of beautiful walks and trails for you to explore and enjoy.

Malham Cove is a 70m high, centuries old, gently curving cliff of white limestone. Formed along the line of the Middle Craven Fault, it’s a challenging but spectacular geological trail. The Malham Cove Tarn also offers a 2.5km footpath joining onto a well-surfaced walking track and a wheelchair accessible boardwalk loop around the nature reserve. As it’s just a 20-minute walk away from the Buck Inn, Malham, you’re welcome to leave your car at our on-site car park and dive straight into your Yorkshire Dales walk.

The Gordale Scar is a beautiful hidden gorge and cascading waterfall surrounded by incredible rocky limestone. On the way, you’ll find Janet’s Foss, a hidden waterfall with a famously mythical history and a popular spot for wild swimming. There’s photo opportunities galore at this particular Yorkshire Dales walk so have your camera at the ready.

Whichever Malham Dales walking route you’re looking to explore, it should always include a trip to Malham Tarn Nature Reserve. Here you’ll discover 147 hectares brimming with rich nature and is one of the best places to see a natural lime-rich lake, fen, willow carr and more in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Due to the sensitive ecology of the reserve, it’s not dog-friendly but it’s easily accessible from the Malham Cove Tarn trail footpath making it a breezy Yorkshire Dales walk for the rest of the family.

Boasting six utterly stunning waterfalls across a 4.5 mile trail, Ingleton Waterfalls is a must-visit on your Yorkshire Dales walks. The well-defined footpath runs as close to the edge of two rivers as you can get, meaning you’re sure to be enjoying some truly spectacular views. It’s definitely one for explorers, families and nature lovers alike.

For the more ambitious hiker, explore the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. The 24-mile hike over Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough includes 1585m of ascent in under 12 hours. It’s one that can be taken at any time but also has dedicated days for groups to go out together – speak to one of our friendly team at the Buck Inn who’ll be happy to help you get started on this Yorkshire Dales walk.

Ascend one of the highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales and you’ll be rewarded with outstanding views from the incredible Buckdean Peak. It’s known to be a rough, mostly uphill terrain with stiles, gates and livestock so it’s one that requires proper preparation. However, the 5-mile circular route offers stunning historic mine remnants and some of the best landscapes you could hope for on a Yorkshire Dales walk.

This 4.5-mile circular trail of Malham Ramble (Moorland Loop) is home to Yorkshire’s own Ice-Age lake; Malham Tarn. Beginning at the nature reserve, you head up the Pennine Way and pass through rocky limestone outcrops, open fellside and farmland. From there you can enjoy sweeping views of Malham Moor and Malham Tarn. It’s a moderate, circular walk but across fields and unmade tracks so it’s a good Yorkshire Dales walk for those who don’t mind a challenge.

The Yorkshire Dales is an incredible experience, however, there’s always safety precautions to consider when you’re taking on a more serious hike; especially if you’re inexperienced or a first-time walker. Have a read of our tips, but also speak to our friendly team if you need any further guidance on how to make your Yorkshire Dales walk the best it can be.

• Do your research on the route

Be realistic about your activity levels, the time it takes and always either bring a buddy or share your location to ensure your safety. You may also want to take into account different terrains, your ability to read maps and signs when you’re out and about, and factor in rest stops.

• Be prepared for all weather

British weather is famously unpredictable, but you should always have appropriate walking shoes or boots, and layers to hand. A proper backpack, a water bottle and a snack or two are also helpful, particularly on longer Yorkshire Dales walks.

• Consider the whole family

Ensure you’ve checked whether your trails of choice are suitable for you, children, whether dogs are allowed etc. While a huge portion of the Yorkshire Dales is accessible and dog-friendly, different rules apply, so be sure to check ahead of time.