TOG Foundation

Gordale Scar accessible walk, Malham, Yorkshire Dales

You are here:

Stay
Handpicked boutique luxury to family & pet friendly hotels.

Pitstops
An assortment of interesting stop off points along our walks.

Camp
A selection of campsites and glamorous camping locations.

Walk Details
1½ miles East of Malham is the breathtaking Gordale Scar. Gordale Scar is a gigantic collapsed cave system forming a twisting gorge between limestone cliffs. A good path through the campsite has been created, following alongside the Gordale Beck onto Gordale Scar. Here our paths ends and the only way out of the Scar is to re-trace your steps or climb up the waterfall.

It is only a short trek, but it is so worth a diversion when in Malham or when visiting the Cove (which is also accessible).

Read more ...

There is room for a couple of cars at the off road parking just by the bridge before the gate leading into the camp site. All gates are accessible and the path is a good compressed surface. However, the area is prone to landslides and often the path is littered with pieces of limestone which have tumbled down the rock face.

The Youth Hostel at Malham has undergone a huge refurbishment and is now able to offer wheelchair accessible accommodation. There is limited parking at the hostel.

Access TOG Verdict:
Don’t be fooled into parking your car in Malham and walking to the Scar… it is a long way unless you know that you have sufficient power on your chair.

This route would be accessible for a manual wheelchair user, but it could be tough going because of the rough terrain and some rocks along the path may need to be moved out of the way for you.

There are many cafes in Malham which are wheelchair accessible, but unfortunately the two pubs are not.

The visitor centre is accessible and there are a few disabled parking bays (parking fees apply) in their carpark.  Public toilets are also located here. An accessible toilet is available, (RADAR KEY)

trainNearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Skipton, Leeds

Local Information

Read the Countryside Code before venturing out
Make sure to take a map and compass, and know how to use them before going into our National Parks #BeAdventureSmart

Tips for New Walkers: click here to download (PDF).

Remember to prepare properly before heading out on any type of walk or outdoor activity. Tell people where you are going and what time you are expected back. As Wainwright says "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".