Best lakes around Horton In Ribblesdale are primarily characterized by tarns and smaller water bodies, as the porous limestone geology of the Yorkshire Dales limits large natural lakes. The area is known for its dramatic limestone landscapes and rivers like the Ribble. While large lakes are rare, several notable tarns and nearby estate lakes offer scenic views and recreational opportunities. These natural features contribute to the unique appeal of Horton In Ribblesdale hiking routes.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Great views and the water looks very refreshing to go in, but I wouldn't recommend it
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This tarn is not called Greenest Moss as mentioned above but Greensett Moss. It is in a boggy area and therefore not really accessible or suitable for a swim.
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Nice bit of the wet stuff to break up the mountainside.
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The result of trapped snow and ice from the ice age created this boggy area with its tarn, which is called Greenest Moss
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The estate nature reserve makes for a nice stoll through woodland and past a lake, or a good start to an ascent of Ingleborough. Be aware though that it is not a public footpath and has been developed by the estate, so you have to pay a fee. If you are averse to paying to walk, bypass the woods and take the bridleway slightly to the west
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Lovely area to sit and have a snack
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While large natural lakes are rare due to the region's geology, several significant tarns and estate lakes offer beautiful scenery. The most popular include Malham Tarn, known for its unique ecosystem and historical significance, and Ingleborough Estate Lake, which is part of a picturesque nature trail.
Yes, Ingleborough Estate Lake offers a family-friendly experience within the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail. It features scenic walks through woodlands, past waterfalls, and has amenities like a cafe and toilets, making it suitable for various abilities.
Malham Tarn is England's highest marl lake and one of only eight upland alkaline lakes in Europe, boasting a unique geological and ecological importance. Greensett Moss Tarn is a result of trapped snow and ice from the Ice Age, creating a distinctive boggy landscape.
The area around Horton in Ribblesdale is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like those listed in the Easy hikes around Horton In Ribblesdale guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes available for touring bicycles and road cycling.
Malham Tarn has a rich history, with evidence of human activity since the Mesolithic era. It also famously inspired Charles Kingsley's novel 'Water-Babies, A Fairy Tale for a Land Baby' after his visit in 1858.
Yes, several areas are dog-friendly. For example, Malham Tarn is a popular spot for dog walkers, and there's a Picnic Area by the Lake in Yorkshire Dales National Park that is also dog-friendly.
The best time to visit is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are vibrant. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the Dales.
The Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, which includes Ingleborough Estate Lake, offers wide gravel paths and some accessible sections, making it suitable for easier walks. While Malham Tarn has longer routes, there are also shorter, less challenging paths around its perimeter.
Parking is generally available near popular lake attractions. For instance, there are parking facilities near the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail for visitors to Ingleborough Estate Lake. For Malham Tarn, parking is available in the wider Malham area, often requiring a short walk to the tarn itself.
"The Tarn" is a smaller, local water body directly within Horton in Ribblesdale, situated near the River Ribble. While not as widely publicized for visitor amenities as larger sites, its direct presence in the village makes it an accessible local feature for quiet contemplation during local walks.
Visitors frequently praise the serene landscapes and the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially at Malham Tarn. The picturesque walks through woodlands and past waterfalls at Ingleborough Estate Lake are also highly appreciated, offering a tranquil escape into nature.
While Malham Tarn can be popular, its surrounding moorland offers opportunities to find quieter spots. For a truly local and less-trafficked experience, "The Tarn" directly in Horton in Ribblesdale provides a peaceful, albeit smaller, water feature.


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