Autumn is a wonderful time to get out into the countryside for a good walk. With trees full of vibrant colours, leaves crunching underfoot, and wrapping up warm in the chilly but invigorating air, it really is magical to be in the great outdoors. Well, to help you plan your next day out, we present to you one of the best North York Moors walks – the Mallyan Spout and Beck Hole circular.
Walk Through 90s TV Nostalgia
It is 3.5 miles and mostly easy, making it suitable for a range of abilities. It is definitely a walk that crams a lot of fantastic sights in. You will start in the village of Goathland. This name may ring a bell as it is the location for the much-loved Yorkshire TV series Heartbeat. Walking through the village, you will see some of the famous landmarks of the show such as:
- The Aidensfield Arms: The famous pub which is known as The Goathland Hotel in real life.
- Scripps Garage (Aidensfield Garage) – This still has the garage’s appearance from the series but is now a gift shop where you can pick up memorabilia, souvenirs, and refreshments.
- Goathland Railway Station – A stunning, oldie-worldie station where you still catch a steam train to places across North Yorkshire. You may also recognise it as Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter films.
Experience the Largest Waterfall in the North York Moors
Upon leaving the village, you will walk through woodland and along a valley until you come across Mallyan Spout, the largest waterfall in the North York Moors. It was a popular attraction for visitors in the Victorian era, and it is easy to see why.
It is 70 feet high and cascades down West Beck. The drop is almost vertical and is particularly spectacular after periods of heavy rain. Do be careful though, as the wet rocks can be slippery underfoot.
If you fancy a dip, the pool at the bottom of the waterfall is ideal for paddling. As you walk from the waterfall, you pass through picturesque Yorkshire landscapes showing the beauty of our county.
Have a Pint at Yorkshire’s Smallest Pub
You will then come to the Birch Hall Inn, also known as Yorkshire’s smallest pub. Located in the tiny, picture-perfect village of Beck Hall, the pub is steeped in history, with the building dating back to the 17th century.
It is a favourite among walkers, cyclists, hikers, and history lovers, who feel they are stepping back in time when entering the pub. It was recognised when it received the honour of ‘Pub of the Year 2014’ by real ale group CAMRA.
Get Refuelled by Beer, Food, and Sweets
After your long walk, we’re sure you’ll need a drink. Well, they have an excellent selection of locally brewed beers, including Beckwater, Wold Top bitter, and fine guest ales. There is also a selection of hot drinks, perfect for warming you up after your trek. To help you refuel, there is also a selection of bar snacks including pork pies, sandwiches, and their famous beer cake. It also has a small sweet shop inside!
Once you are fully refreshed and have enjoyed the warmth of the pub, it is time to return to Goathland. From Beck Hole, the route loops back around to the village. This part of the walk is a steady uphill climb through woodland, and you will be back where you started.
This really is a walk that has everything. You will get TV nostalgia, wild and beautiful countryside, a stunning waterfall, and a historical pub to visit for a nice pint. It gives you such a taste of Yorkshire life and its history.
Even though the walk is mainly easy, there are some rocky and slippery sections, especially after it has been raining. Therefore, it is best to wear sturdy walking boots or shoes to be on the safe side. You can usually get the walk done in under two hours.
Take the trip to Goathland this autumn, and experience one of the best walks in the North York Moors.
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