Best natural monuments around Ugthorpe provide access to the diverse landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. The area features 11 natural monuments, offering a range of outdoor experiences. These sites showcase the region's geological formations and natural beauty. Ugthorpe serves as a gateway to exploring these natural features.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Whilst this waterfall is relatively accessible, as others point out it is a bit of a scramble, with the rocks still quite slippery and treacherous in the height of summer, as they are permanently in the shade and damp. In summer, the valley that the track to the waterfall runs through provides welcome respite from the heat of the day.
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Many of the photos posted are actually Thomason Foss, which is 50m further upstream. This little waterfall is very broad and shallow, almost like a set of rapids, with lots of huge flat boulders flanking the northern shore that make a perfect perch for an impromptu rest. Note that the track from Beck Hole to this waterfall is very boggy in places, and part of the track is very high up and narrow, making it slightly difficult to navigate in summer when the gorse bushes are encroaching over the track. Slow and steady with good footwear is essential.
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What a interesting place this must of taken a lot of making back in the day 1790.
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It is said the Hermitage dates back to the 18th century and that it was the home of a hermit who lived a life of foraging for fuel and food in the woods. The Hermitage is ideal for an emergency bivvy shelter.
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The beautiful 70 ft high Mallyan Spout waterfall is the tallest one in the North York Moors National Park. It is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues as it involves scrambling over rocks.
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A must-see - you can't miss this. This is the tallest waterfall in North York Moors, with a 70 feet vertical drop. Many people call the sight and the experience of it 'epic'!
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St Hilda is renowned to be the most famous Saint of the Anglo-Saxon times. She was a discinple of St Aidan of Lindisfarne, and the Abbess of Whitby. The church here is from the 18th century, though, built on the site of a previous one, probably from the 12th century. However, in the graveyard you will find St Hilda's Well (Grade II-listed), which was a place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages (and now, of your own pilgrimage!)
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The area around Ugthorpe offers a variety of captivating natural monuments. Among the most popular are Mallyan Spout Waterfall, known as the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors, and The Hermitage (North York Moors), a unique circular room carved into grit stone. Visitors also frequently enjoy Waterfall Near Beck Hole, a broad and shallow waterfall with large flat boulders perfect for resting.
Yes, several natural monuments in the area also hold historical interest. The Hermitage (North York Moors) is a notable example, believed to have been created in the 18th century, possibly as a folly or a hermit's dwelling. Additionally, Esk Valley Mine, while a man-made monument, is situated within a natural setting and offers insights into the region's ironstone mining history with informative boards and preserved structures.
The terrain can vary, often requiring sturdy footwear. For instance, the path to Mallyan Spout Waterfall can be technical in places. Similarly, reaching Waterfall Near Beck Hole may involve muddy paths and slippery rocks, with some sections being narrow. Generally, expect natural, sometimes uneven, paths typical of the North York Moors landscape.
While many natural monuments involve some walking, Esk Valley Mine is categorized as family-friendly. It features well-presented information boards and carved wooden wagons, making it an engaging historical site for all ages within a natural setting. For general family-friendly walks, you can explore easy hikes around Ugthorpe which might lead to other accessible natural features.
The area around Ugthorpe is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate hikes that take you through diverse landscapes. For those who prefer cycling, there are also MTB trails available. These activities allow you to explore the natural beauty of the North York Moors National Park and the Cleveland Heritage Coast.
The natural monuments around Ugthorpe can be visited year-round, each season offering a different experience. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and generally drier paths, making for easier exploration. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer a dramatic, serene landscape, though paths may be muddier and more slippery, especially around waterfalls like Mallyan Spout. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Yes, the region is rich in viewpoints. Old Nab, a distinctive headland, offers spectacular views down and up the coast, resulting from a combination of mining and coastal erosion. The wider North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast also provides dramatic scenic vistas and stunning walks.
Given the varied terrain, it's highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Paths can be technical, muddy, or slippery, especially near waterfalls or after rain. Dressing in layers is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions in the North York Moors.
While Mallyan Spout is widely known, the area holds other gems. Old Nab offers unique coastal views and a sense of discovery away from the more frequented spots. Exploring the various hiking trails can also lead you to less-traveled natural features and hidden corners of the North York Moors.
The North York Moors National Park and the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast are home to diverse wildlife. While specific sightings are never guaranteed, you might spot various bird species, small mammals, and insects. The coastal areas, in particular, are known for their rich marine and bird life.
Yes, Ugthorpe and nearby villages offer options for refreshments and accommodation. For example, the Mallyan Spout Hotel is conveniently located near Mallyan Spout Waterfall. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation in the surrounding areas, providing places to rest and refuel after exploring the natural monuments.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ugthorpe: