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United Kingdom
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Yorkshire And The Humber

Stirton With Thorlby

Top 7 Gorges around Stirton With Thorlby

Best canyons around Stirton With Thorlby are found within the broader North Yorkshire region, as Stirton With Thorlby itself is a small civil parish characterized by rural landscapes, hills, and dales. Situated on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, the area's geology is more indicative of valleys and dales rather than immediate canyons. However, the wider North Yorkshire area offers diverse natural landscapes, including dramatic valleys and other geological formations within areas like the Yorkshire Dales National Park. These…

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Gordale Scar Waterfall

Highlight • Natural Monument

Gordale Scar is one of the most dramatic sights in the Yorkshire Dales. The narrow canyon is dominated on either side by sheer walls of rock, hundreds of feet high, …

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The Strid

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The Strid is a natural wonder, where the river suddenly narrows forcing the water through at great pressure. It was formed by the wearing away of softer rock by the …

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This magical woodland path leads to Janet’s Foss. The waterfall is named after the Queen of the Fairies, as it is rumoured that she lived behind the falls. The woods …

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View of Gordale Scar

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IMO this is the best vantage point to take in Gordale Scar in all its glory.

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Valley of Desolation

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In the wilderness. a nice path through the countryside. Can go to the waterfall or try a challenging hike up the hill.

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Popular around Stirton With Thorlby

A Dales High Way – Hiking in winter

Road Cycling Routes around Stirton With Thorlby

Cycling around Stirton With Thorlby

Running Trails around Stirton With Thorlby

MTB Trails around Stirton With Thorlby

Hiking around Stirton With Thorlby

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A Dales High Way – Hiking in winter

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Chris Shannon
February 22, 2026, The Strid

This is a really nice natural beauty place not far from Bolton Abbey and in the Strid woods

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To fully appreciate the breathtaking views of Gordale Scar from the top, follow the footpath from the car park near Gordale Bridge in Malham, North Yorkshire. The trail leads you through the dramatic limestone gorge, where you’ll climb alongside the waterfall. Once at the top, pause at the edge of the scar for a stunning panoramic view of the rugged cliffs, cascading water, and the rolling Yorkshire Dales below. For the best experience, visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the soft light illuminating the landscape

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The Strid is a section of the River Wharfe and considered to be one of the most dangerous sections of rivers in the UK. The river is forced through a narrow gap at Great pressure.

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John
February 23, 2025, View of Gordale Scar

What a sight

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Not accessible if your not willing to do a Little Rock climbing!

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IMO this is the best vantage point to take in Gordale Scar in all its glory.

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Easily the best view point to take in GS and it’s surroundings. Also much quieter than the low level route

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Beautiful path following the beck through a wooded limestone gorge. At its absolute best in Spring when the wild garlic aromas are strong and the green colours are vivid

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of geological features can I expect to see around Stirton With Thorlby?

While Stirton With Thorlby itself is characterized by rural landscapes, the broader North Yorkshire region, particularly within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offers dramatic valleys, gorges, and waterfalls. You can explore features like the sheer rock walls of Gordale Scar Waterfall, the narrow river passage of The Strid, and the scenic Woodland Path to Janet's Foss, which leads to a beautiful waterfall.

Are there any waterfalls in the canyons and gorges near Stirton With Thorlby?

Yes, the area is home to several notable waterfalls. Gordale Scar Waterfall is a dramatic natural monument where Gordale Beck tumbles through a rocky ravine. Another beautiful spot is Janet's Foss, accessible via the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss, known for its magical setting.

How difficult are the canyon walks around Stirton With Thorlby?

The difficulty varies. Some areas, like the scramble up Gordale Scar Waterfall, are challenging and quite technical, requiring sturdy shoes and careful footing. Other paths, such as the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss, offer a lovely flat walk along the river bank, suitable for families. Always check the specific route details and be prepared for potentially slippery or wet conditions.

Are there family-friendly canyon walks around Stirton With Thorlby?

Yes, the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss is considered family-friendly, offering a pleasant walk through a wooded limestone gorge. It's a relatively flat path, making it suitable for a wider range of ages and abilities.

What is the best time to visit the gorges and waterfalls in this region?

Spring is a particularly good time to visit, especially for places like the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss, when the wild garlic (ramsons) comes into flower, filling the air with a glorious scent. Generally, the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months, but always be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Is parking available near these natural attractions?

For attractions like The Strid, you can access it from the Bolton Abbey car parks. For other locations, parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check specific access points and parking facilities for each highlight before your visit.

Do I need permits for canyon exploration around Stirton With Thorlby?

Generally, permits are not required for exploring the publicly accessible gorges and trails in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. However, it's always good practice to respect local signage, private land, and any specific rules that might apply to certain areas or activities.

What outdoor activities can I do near these canyons and gorges?

The area around Stirton With Thorlby and the wider Yorkshire Dales offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, from easy to difficult, as detailed in the Cycling around Stirton With Thorlby guide. There are also many hiking opportunities, including easy trails, which you can explore in the Easy hikes around Stirton With Thorlby guide, and mountain biking trails listed in the MTB Trails around Stirton With Thorlby guide.

Are there hiking trails near the gorges and waterfalls?

Yes, there are many hiking trails that lead to and around these natural features. For example, the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss is a popular trail. You can find a range of hiking options, including easy routes, in the Easy hikes around Stirton With Thorlby guide, which features trails like the Leeds and Liverpool Canal loop from Skipton.

What do visitors enjoy most about the gorges and natural monuments in this region?

Visitors frequently praise the dramatic scenery and natural beauty. Highlights like Gordale Scar Waterfall are admired for their spectacular views and challenging climbs. The Strid is noted as a natural wonder, and the Woodland Path to Janet's Foss is loved for its magical atmosphere and the scent of wild garlic in spring. The diverse geological formations and riverine landscapes offer unique exploration opportunities.

Are there any viewpoints to admire the gorges from above?

Yes, for Gordale Scar, there's a specific highlight called View of Gordale Scar, which offers an excellent vantage point to take in the entire scene. It's often described as the best spot to appreciate the gorge in all its glory.

Can I find any hidden gem canyons or less-known gorges in the area?

While the main attractions like Gordale Scar and The Strid are well-known, the wider Yorkshire Dales National Park is vast and offers many less-trafficked paths and smaller dales that can feel like hidden gems. Exploring the various trails and local maps can lead you to quieter, equally beautiful spots, such as the Valley of Desolation, which offers a path through the countryside to a waterfall.

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