Malham Tarn

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Malham Tarn is a glacial lake in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, around 5km (3 miles) north of Malham village. At 377m (1,237 ft) above sea level, it is the highest limestone lake in Britain. The tarn is part of a National Nature Reserve managed by the National Trust and is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic surroundings.

Malham Tarn formed during the last Ice Age when glaciers carved out the limestone landscape. The retreating ice left behind a basin, which later filled with water. Unlike most tarns, which form in rocky basins, Malham Tarn lies on an area of glacial debris. The surrounding land has been shaped by centuries of farming and conservation efforts. The tarn was once part of the estate of Walter Morrison, a Victorian philanthropist, who built the nearby Malham Tarn House, now used as a field studies centre. The site has also attracted writers, including Charles Kingsley, who visited in the 19th century.

What to see at Malham Tarn

Visitors to Malham Tarn can explore the surrounding nature reserve, which includes wetlands, woodlands and limestone pavements. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, water voles and several species of rare plants. Birdwatchers may spot waders, ducks and birds of prey. The tarn itself is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique ecology.

Walking routes around the tarn provide opportunities to explore the landscape. The Malham Tarn Circular Walk is a two-hour 7km- (4½ mile)-long walk that takes in the tarn, Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. Shorter walks are available, including trails leading to the boardwalk over the wetland area.

The scenery you can expect on the Malham Tarn Circular Walk. (Photo by Dan Blackburn on Unsplash)
The scenery you can expect on the Malham Tarn Circular Walk. (Photo by Dan Blackburn on Unsplash)

Malham Tarn House, which dates from the 18th century, is not open to the public, but its grounds contribute to the landscape. Nearby, the Pennine Way passes close to the tarn, making it a stopping point for long-distance walkers. The area is also used for field studies and educational visits.

Visiting Malham Tarn

Malham Tarn is in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, around 10.5km (6½ miles) from Settle. The closest village is Malham, around a one-hour walk south from the tarn.

There is no admission fee to visit Malham Tarn, as it is part of a public nature reserve. Access is available year-round, though the best time to visit is between spring and autumn when the weather is milder. The area can be exposed to strong winds, and paths may become muddy after heavy rain.

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