Mallyan Spout

Mallyan Spout is a waterfall near the village of Goathland in North Yorkshire, inside the North York Moors National Park. The water drops about 70 feet (over 20 metres) down a rock face in the gorge of West Beck. It is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors, and the surrounding land is part of the Beck Hole SSSI.

What will you see at Mallyan Spout?

West Beck runs into a narrow wooded ravine whose almost vertical walls rise roughly 70 feet. The fall slides down dark rock in a ribbon, framed by trees and ferns. The gorge is at its best after rain, when the beck carries plenty of water. In a long dry spell the flow shrinks to a thin stream.

How do you get to Mallyan Spout?

The path starts at the western edge of Goathland, next to the Mallyan Spout Hotel. It passes the building and drops into the West Beck valley. At the stream turn left and follow it upstream. From the village centre allow about 20 minutes; from the beck itself it is 10 to 15 minutes.

By car from Pickering it is about 14 miles: take the A169 towards Malton, then follow the signs for Goathland and Beck Hole. The National Park car park is on the left just after you turn onto Beck Hole Road and costs £3. A few free spaces sometimes turn up near the hotel, but no-parking signs apply there. If those are full, the village is a few hundred metres away.

What is the walk like, and what should you bring?

The path by the falls is uneven, with large rocks that turn slippery when wet. Wear sturdy walking boots. The out-and-back trip to the fall is short, and many visitors extend it into a loop via Beck Hole. That circuit is around 2.5 to 3 miles (4 to 4.5 km) with about 150 m of climbing. It follows West Beck to Beck Hole and returns to Goathland along the bed of the original Whitby to Pickering railway.

The gorge path past the fall has suffered from erosion. A sign at the junction may ask walkers to take a permissive alternative route above New Wath Scar. Check the National Park's current notices before you set out.

When is the best time to visit?

The day after heavy rain gives the strongest flow. Summer brings the thickest greenery to the ravine, though the path is busier. Spring and autumn are quieter, with more mud underfoot. Set aside 1.5 to 2 hours if you are walking the Beck Hole loop.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Mallyan Spout? About 70 feet, a little over 20 metres. It is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors.

Is the walk to the waterfall difficult? No, but the path is rocky and slippery after rain. You need good footwear rather than any special equipment.

Where can you park? The easiest option is the National Park car park on Beck Hole Road (£3) or the village of Goathland itself. Space near the hotel is limited and restricted.

How long does the walk take? Around 20 minutes one way from the centre of Goathland. The Beck Hole loop is 2.5 to 3 miles.

Is there an entry fee? No. The only cost is parking if you use the National Park car park.