The Old Man of Mallyan

Sixty feet doesn’t seem very high for a waterfall. Until you stand under it. Mallyan Spout is the tallest waterfall in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Even if it hasn’t rained it’s worth seeing, as the water pours through moss and assorted hanging greenery – which is no doubt why it’s often called the Old Man of Mallyan. After rain it’s rather different.

However, you can walk along the footpath and stand in front of the waterfall – or, if there’s enough water, through the spray.

The little valley encloses you, and all the sounds of the wider world are absorbed by the trees, rocks and water. Time slows.

(Image from: www.nationalparks.gov.uk)