MALHAM 26th October 2025


Forty-one members of the Club set off on what proved to be a particularly wet and at times windy day. Six groups in all navigated their way across the countryside to the eventual salvation of numerous hostelries of Malham. Unfortunately an accident on the M65 delayed their return for over an hour. As a result of the longer return journey which delayed the scheduled ‘pit-stop’, there were some strained faces and crossed legs for those who had earlier enjoyed a few post-walk drinks.

Geoff’s group set off from Airton on a wet and chilly morning. Spirits stayed high, helped by Mike’s hot chocolate stop just before Gordale Scar.

With the main route partly closed, they took the diversion towards Malham Tarn, enjoying the moody scenery despite the weather. From there, they continued to Malham Cove, grabbed some great drone footage, and finished the walk down into Malham village for a few welcome drinks in the Buck Inn next to the radiators.

Martin’s group set off from Kirkby Malham headed for Aire Head where the River Aire springs out from the ground. They continued on paths around Malham and above the Cove to the water sinks where the water flows underground to re-emerge at Aire Head.

From the sinks they went above the other side of the cove and then down to the refreshment van near Janet’s Foss.  Suzy and Eric impressed them with their ability to negotiate the steps down to the Foss while carrying their drinks!! Easily back to Malham to finish a cold, wet and windy walk enjoyed mainly for the good company and the scenic route, which would have been more enjoyable if not for the persistent rain. However the post-walk drink at the charming Lister Arms was a welcome relief. 

Stu’s and Ele were first off the coach at East Marton, near to the old Cross Keys Inn which, having been closed for quite a few years now, appeared more derelict than ever. Such a shame because it used to be such a nice little place to eat and have drink in, but sadly will most probably be either demolished or turned into a residence. 

They then descended the steep steps to the tow path alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, crossing under the famous double arched bridge. 

Once merely a narrow packhorse crossing, the second arch you see today, was built on top of the original when the A59 and motor traffic made improvement a necessity.

Continuing north along the canal, they followed the twisting bends of this waterway, which was built well over 200 years ago using the then predominant 'contour system', hence the tight bends along its length, coupled with many flights of locks.

Upon reaching Gargrave, they came upon a delightful barge, its owner serving all sorts of hot and cold drinks and lovely cakes etc. 

Two beautiful cats and a dog also lived on board, so they just had to stop and get cappuccinos and make a fuss of the animals!  

Pressing on, they rejoined the Pennine Way footpath, before 'overtaking' Gerry and Ian's group who had started from Thorlby, the other side of Gargrave.

The Pennine Way was followed all the way north past Airton and Kirkby Malham, into Malham itself, and as the light rain had by now become increasingly heavier, the intended plan to go to Janet's Foss and Malham Cove top was abandoned.

More enticing, was the thought of either of the two pubs with their roaring fires and refreshments, so 10 and a half miles and about 900 feet of ascent was deemed enough for the day!

All in all though it was a great day!

Paul’s walk went as planned except for the very wet conditions. The group found the limestone pavement above Malham Cove far too slippy, so they skirted it on the grass. Lunch was hastily eaten sheltering behind a wall from the wind, but a warm welcome was waiting in the Buck Inn back at Malham.

Keith’s walk - The Oldham's began their walk at Malham, before heading off to view the sights of Janet's Foss, Malham Tarn and Malham Cove. Unfortunately the rain began as soon as they stepped off the coach and did not stop for the rest of the day. This did not spoil the beauty of the area for those in the group who had never visited before. Seeing the wild swimmer enjoying a cold dip in Janet's Foss and the climbers braving the wet conditions at the cove, added to the enjoyment of the day.

Thanks as ever to the leaders who continue to take on the responsibility of putting the walks together and leading their merry bands - Geoff, Martin, Keith, Gerry, Ian, Paul and Stu. And the photographers who as usual have contributed with so many great photos - Geoff, Nancy, Eric, Mike B, Monika, Lana, Dawn, Neil, Ian, Anne, Chris, Angie and Stu. And to all those who have contributed walk reports.

Keep up the great work everyone :-) 

Click HERE to open the album.

Click HERE to view Darren's Malham Cove drone footage.

Next Walks:

Sunday 9th November 2025 – Newbiggin to Orton

5.00 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, M6 north to junction 38, A685 to Newbiggin, back along the A685 and then the B6261 to Orton. Park in Orton. Morning coffee stop at Burton services.

Sunday 23rd November 2025 – Sedbergh

5.00 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, M6 north to junction 37, A684 to Sedbergh. Park in Sedbergh. Morning coffee stop at Burton services.

Sunday 7th December 2025 - Gisburn – Christmas meal

4.30 p.m. departure

Northbound to Preston, on to the M65, M65 eastbound to junction 7, via A6185/A678 to the A680, A671 to roundabout N of Whalley, A59 to Gisburn. Park in Gisburn. No morning coffee stop. The coach will leave Gisburn at 4.30 pm to drive to the Calf’s Head for the Christmas meal at 5 pm.

 


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