Top 7 Lakes around Malham Moor

Malham Tarn is unique because it is the highest marl lake in England, situated at 377 meters above sea level. It's one of only eight upland alkaline lakes in Europe, formed by a glacier approximately 10,000 years ago. This geological rarity supports a unique ecosystem with rare species, making it an internationally important National Nature Reserve. You can learn more about it on its highlight page: Malham Tarn.

Malham Tarn is a significant wildlife haven, especially for birds. Tarn Moss, a boggy area on the western shore, attracts various wading birds like common coots, pochards, tufted ducks, and mallards, particularly in late summer and autumn. A bird hide is available for observation. The unique ecosystem also supports rare species, including specific benthic copepods and mollusks.

Yes, there are excellent walking opportunities around Malham Tarn. You can enjoy strolls on good gravel footpaths, including a beautiful route around the lake with a boardwalk. For more structured routes, komoot offers several options, such as the Malham Tarn & Malham Cove loop or the Watersinks to Malham Tarn Easy Stroll.

Beyond walking, the Malham Moor area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, running routes, and road cycling routes. Angling for brown trout is also popular in Malham Tarn.

Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. For instance, Malham Tarn and Ingleborough Estate Lake are both categorized as family-friendly. The National Trust also offers a 'tramper' (all-terrain wheelchair) for hire at Malham Tarn, enhancing accessibility for families with diverse needs.

Malham Tarn has a rich history. Archaeological evidence suggests Stone Age campsites and tools along its shoreline. More recently, it served as the inspiration for Charles Kingsley's 1863 novel, 'The Water-Babies, A Fairy Tale for a Land Baby.' The lake and its surrounding estate are owned by the National Trust, which manages it as a National Nature Reserve.

The best time to visit Malham Tarn depends on your interests. For birdwatching, late summer and autumn are ideal for observing various wading birds. The area is beautiful year-round for walks, but always check local conditions, especially during winter.

There are two small car parks available for access when visiting Malham Tarn, making it convenient for walkers and visitors.

Yes, there is a dedicated Picnic Area by the Lake in Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering a lovely spot to relax and have a snack.

Beyond the prominent Malham Tarn, you can also explore Ingleborough Estate Lake, which is part of a nature reserve offering woodland strolls. Another notable body of water is Winterburn Reservoir, a man-made lake constructed in the late 19th century to support the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Yes, many areas around the lakes, including Malham Tarn and the Picnic Area by the Lake, are considered dog-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock.