Things to Do
Waterfalls of the North York Moors
By Jon Cosson · Updated 1 November 2026 · Checked
Tucked into the moors' wooded ravines and tumbling onto its beaches are a string of lovely waterfalls, some a short stroll from the car, others the reward at the end of a walk. Here are the ones worth seeking out, and how to reach them. They are at their most dramatic after rain, in spring and autumn.
Mallyan Spout
The best known, near Goathland: a slender fall of around 70 feet dropping through a wooded gorge on West Beck. A good footpath from beside the Mallyan Spout Hotel leads down to it, over some steps and slippery rocks. Most impressive after rain.
Falling Foss
A broad fall of around 30 feet in Sneaton Forest near Whitby, on the Coast to Coast route, and home to the delightful Falling Foss Tea Garden (seasonal), an outdoor woodland café right by the falls. A lovely, family-friendly spot.
Thomason Foss
At Beck Hole, near Goathland: an easy, well-trodden path from the bridge by the Birch Hall Inn follows Eller Beck up the ravine (beside the steam railway) to this pretty fall, a popular wild-swimming spot in warm weather, with the usual cold-water caution.
Nelly Ayre Foss
A wider, shorter fall on West Beck, about 2km upstream of Mallyan Spout, secluded and quiet. You can link Mallyan Spout, Nelly Ayre Foss and Thomason Foss into a single Goathland Waterfall Walk for a superb day out.
Hayburn Wyke
Something different: a coastal waterfall that drops onto a secluded pebble cove between Scarborough and Whitby, reached on foot from the Cleveland Way or the Cinder Track. See more of the coast, and our cycling guide.
Before you go
Most falls are best after wet weather; paths can be steep, muddy and slippery, so wear proper footwear; and take care near the water and on wet rocks. To base yourself near the Goathland waterfalls, see where to stay.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors?
- Mallyan Spout, near Goathland, at around 70 feet, is usually named the tallest. Falling Foss near Whitby is around 30 feet.
- Can you walk to several waterfalls in one go?
- Yes, the Goathland area lets you link Mallyan Spout, Nelly Ayre Foss and Thomason Foss into a single waterfall walk.
- Is there a café at Falling Foss?
- Yes, the Falling Foss Tea Garden is an open-air tea garden beside the waterfall. It opens seasonally on selected weekends and is closed in winter; see the Falling Foss guide.
- Can you swim at the North York Moors waterfalls?
- Thomason Foss at Beck Hole is a popular wild-swimming spot in warm weather; take the usual cold-water and safety precautions, as the water is cold and the rocks are slippery.
Sources: National Trail, Falling Foss.
Stay near the waterfalls
Base yourself within easy reach of Goathland and Beck Hole and you can walk to three waterfalls in a morning.
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