An “epic” Yorkshire Dales walk said to make explorers “feel like an action hero” has officially been named the best walk in the UK this autumn, according to a survey by Which?

The Malham Cove and Gordale Scar walk with a distance of 7.5 miles received a total score of 89%.

It was also given 4/5 stars for food and drink and 5/5 for places of interest by those who voted.

The consumer champion wrote about its walking guide: “Looking for a scenic jaunt closer to home? Our list of great hikes includes peaceful routes year-round in Northumberland, Yorkshire and Wales – as well as those in the Lake District and Cornwall.

@the.yorkshireman There’s almost no place as magical as Malham Cove if you ask us 😍✨ #northyorkshire #yorkshire #malhamcove #yorkshiredales #foryou #janetsfoss ♬ original sound - The Yorkshireman

“Wherever you are in the country – and however fit or unfit you might be – there's a walk for you. Members scored routes of between one mile and 13 miles on everything from the scenery and wildlife, to those that offered the best food and drink options nearby.”

You can see the detailed results table of the best autumn walks in the UK, as chosen by Which? members here.

Why is this Malham Cove route the best autumn walk in the UK?

Which? explained: “Location scouts for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows must have been thrilled when they found Malham Cove.

"This amphitheatre-shaped cliff is as spectacular as anything a CGI artist could dream up.

"The limestone pavement at its top, with its clints and grikes (blocks and fissures) and views across the Dales, is equally spectacular – the perfect setting for Harry and Hermione to pitch a tent. 

Recommended reading:

“This entire walk has an epic, filmic quality; it scored the full five stars for scenery and places of interest in our survey. After a short uphill start, the route passes through Gordale Scar, a narrow ravine enclosed by towering, sheer walls 100 metres high.”

Which? continued: “The riverside path enters shady woodland and leads to Janet’s Foss – named for the queen of the fairies who, according to legend, lived in a cave behind the falls – before ascending to the top of Malham Cove.

"You may even see peregrines, which nest in the cliff face, wheeling overhead. All the ingredients, then, for a memorable day out: it’s a walk that makes you feel like an action hero.”