Goathland of open glory

Plan for this perfect post-lockdown leg-stretcher, which takes in the North York Moors, waterfalls and the odd well-known film location

- Chris Gill

This gorgeous moorland village may have become more recently known for its role as Aidensfield in popular television series, Heartbeat, and Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films. But Goathland has been pulling in visitors since the 19th century. Once a thriving spa town, with a booming hotel and guest house economy, the Victorians flocked here to witness the local waterfalls of Mallyan Spout and Beck Hole.

It is also the starting point for this glorious 12-mile walk which starts at Goathland Church – found at grid ref. NZ828007 – although you could also start at the main car park opposite the shops and walk around the road to the church.

From the church go through the iron gate to the right of the Mallyan Hotel. The track heads downhill through woods, for 1 km towards West Beck. Once you reach the stream it’s worth turning left for to the Mallyan Spout waterfall. After wet weather, it can be spectacular, but it tends to dry up in the summer. Be careful crossing the stones – they can be slippery.

From here, head downstream. The track climbs away from the stream before dropping down again to join a larger track opposite Railway Cottage. Turn left towards Beck Hole but look out for a signpost on your left.