We're considering a walking tour of the Malham area next year, and here are the options for dates:
I was wondering if anyone had recommendations of which dates are likely to be a good balance of good weather vs crowds.
Many thanks!
There are no guarantees with weather, but I’d go for September if possible. Otherwise maybe June/early July but it could be hot. Or not. Might pour with rain every day.
Later July is school holidays. April could be chilly as could October.
My vote would be for either April or September or October. I've been to Yorkshire during these times and loved it. Keep in mind, though, that the weather changes constantly so who knows what it will be like. June and July will almost undoubtedly be more crowded, so it really depends on what you are looking for. I don't like crowds so it's a no-brainer for me. You may be different, though.
Hi zero -
Can’t disagree with the above comments in that it’s a brave man (or woman!) who will commit to saying when the best weather will be in the U.K. and Yorkshire especially. FWIW, I’d suggest avoiding the outer edges, i.e., April and October (daylight not at its longest) and July (kids on school holidays may see higher prices and less availability). I’m planning a week’s hiking in the Dales in late September this year - I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed for decent weather but will prepare for the worst. Almost all eventualities in fact, although I think I can safely leave the ice axe at home!
May I ask which walking tour you are considering?
Ian
I appreciate all the responses so far! We are considering the 7 Night Southern Yorkshire Dales Gentle Guided Walking Holiday through HF Holidays. We're a group of 4 with some mixed experience/fitness levels, so having the option of different length hikes each day is appealing.
Hi again zero -
The trip you are looking at has a good itinerary, nothing too challenging, although it will be rough underfoot on some walks. Therefore, sturdy walking shoes as a minimum or, possibly preferably, boots are the order of the day. While the nine mile ‘Janet’s Foss - Gordale Scar - Malham Cove - Malham Tarn’ walk on the last day seems like a long way, they are relatively easy miles and the walk is rightly a Yorkshire Dales Classic, not to be missed. The only downside is that, it being a classic, it can be quite busy, but not so busy as to be annoying.
Have a great trip!
Ian
Hi, I did this HF trip at the end of February this year. At that time, it was a bit boggy underfoot, but actually not too bad. (Have had much worse.) It was drizzly most days, but again not awful.
My view is you don't know what weather you will get, just be prepared for anything.
Of the dates you suggest, the only one I would avoid would be the end July option - school holidays.
If you have not done an HF holiday before, the evening before the next days walks they give a short overview of the 3 options. Distance, elevation etc and you can ask questions.
