Malham Cove Dark Skies Walk



Malham Cove Magical Dark Skies & Full Moon Experience

Malham Cove, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England


Run in partnership with AFS Mountaineering


What you'll do

Steeped in mystery and myth, Malham promises to provide an adventure like no other...


A traverse down to Janet’s Foss in the dark exudes atmosphere on big shiny, full moons or when it is very dark. Yes, it’s spine-tingling, but-oh-so exhilarating! And you’ll discover more about the folklore of this magical place.


As we meander into the night, you’ll experience a sensory exploration led by Alison - a mindfulness instructor.  Move slowly, you'll discover how to reconnect to this big wide-world and dark sky above you in a completely different way. It will also magically bring you back to THIS precious moment, making your feel AMAZING.


You’ll stop every now and again to gaze in wonder at a sparkling, star-filled sky. View planets, constellations and the Milky Way arcing above. Or if you're really lucky, see colourful meteors shooting through the atmosphere.  Guided by Fabian - our specialist mountain leader and dark skies enthusiast - you’ll learn more about our own planet, the celestial heavens above and deep time. It’s utterly fascinating…


Of course we cannot guarantee the weather, but even if it's cloudy, scientists have now proved embracing the dark is good for the soul. Walking at night is an incredible experience that is invigorating, immersive and is a surprising mood-booster. What's not to like?! 


So come and join us on this magical evening at Malham Cove. You won’t regret it…


Further information - PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING

The walk length is roughly 5 miles and mainly on footpaths. We'll be following recognised tracks and staying at a low level.  Although we'll be mainly on footpaths, there are hills, rough ground and mud on these routes too. Heading towards Janet's Foss there are lots of tree roots, rocky paths and uneven ground.


For your comfort, a good level of fitness will be needed for this activity. If in any doubt, please contact Alison BEFORE booking.


Please refer to our Terms & Conditions before booking. Please note booking fees are non-refundable.


At a Glance


Group size:

12 people maximum


Includes:

  • Two guides for extra safety & quality experience
  • Learn a secret formula to enable feelings of awe & wonder
  • Find out a little more about the universe, planets, stars, geology & deep time
  • Time to stand and stare at this incredible sky
  • Feeling exhilarated and alive!

Prices from £49 / person

Sat 15 Feb

6.30 - 9.30pm

FULL MOON

Sat 1 Mar

6.30-9.30pm

NEW MOON (DARK)


Make this into a PRIVATE EVENT

- minimum of 6 people

Contact Alison if smaller numbers


Contact Alison

What's included

Small, personal group-size. Services of a mountain guide and 'wellbeing in nature' instructor.


A sensory nature walk that will get you into the 'zone' so you'll see and hear so much more.


Learn about the geology of the area, planets, star systems and other interesting facts about the universe. Peace of mind. Safety. Feeling calmer and awe - which is priceless!

Joining Instructions

Please note joining instructions will be be given after you have booked, closer to the event date. If you have any queries about anything don't hesitate to contact me.


Please make sure you read the T & Cs page too as this includes cancellations or changes due to inclement weather.

What to bring

Please refer to our Equipment List & What to Bring page for further information.

Stay Over

Malham is a stunning place and a stay here comes highly recommended. Take a look at this webpage for accommodation options or The Yorkshire Dales National Park's website.


Meet your Leaders

Alison is the owner of Adventures for the Soul and is passionate about the natural world and the outdoors. She holds a BSc degree in Environmental Management and PGCert in Tourism, Conservation & Sustainable Development. A dark sky enthusiast, nature lover, contemplative walks leader, Yoga teacher, and former Zen Buddhist, she's taken people to some of the most stunning areas of the UK on wellbeing and walking holidays since 2009.


Fabian our walk leader for the evening is the Founder and Director of AFS Mountaineering. He's not only a qualified winter mountain leader, but a PhD scientist with a specialism in evolution and life in extreme habitats. He also has a fascination with stars and planets. He works alongside some exceptional mountain leaders, offering safe guide-led walks to some of the most amazing places in the UK. When Fabian is not available, his very experienced colleagues will step in.


Where you'll be & staying over

The walk starts at the Yorkshire Dales National Park's car park in Malham.


We'll meander along the classic route that follows Malham and Gordale becks, to Janet’s Foss, a waterfall set in its own little amphitheatre. Then onto to Gordale Scar, a gorge with limestone cliffs over 100 m high, and the limestone pavement above Malham Cove to Malham Cove itself.


The area is steeped in geological history. The Cove is particularly spectacular being a huge, curved amphitheatre shaped cliff formation made from limestone rock. Formed from the action of ice and water over millions of years, the vertical face of the cliff is around 70 metres high. It has amazed visitors for centuries.


Why not extend your stay so you can really reap the benefits of this super-chilled area? Check out the Yorkshire Dales National Park's website for accommodation choices and the Malhamdale website.

Images: AFS Mountaineering, Lee Collings, Yorkshire Pics, Steve Bell

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