“Wow” is the word I would use to describe Malham Tarn. This was our third Real Family Holiday having been to Juniper Hall and Kindrogan previously. The outstanding food is something I would highlight here. It was amazing. Nothing was too much for the catering staff and the quality, quantity and choice was exemplary at every meal. Well done catering staff. The accommodation we were allocated was in the High Stable and whilst it was a little bit “damp” some mornings and could do with a dehumidifier, on the whole the standard was fine with a decent ensuite and big room with comfy beds. The High Stables common room/bar was a bonus and the kids loved it. Activities were fine. I do need to comment though on the Harry Potter Walk. This was described to us a gentle downhill stroll. Do not be fooled. This is a very strenuous 5 hour walk over unmade paths and moors to Malham. If you have any kind of problem with your knees, ankles, hips or back I would not recommend this at all. Large sections of the walk were clambering down long runs of “steps” which were not actually steps but rocks with no hand rails. If you are relatively fit and have no health issues it is a wonderful walk with absolutely stunning scenery, but if, like me, you are a sedentary worker with arthritic knees do not attempt this. I would also recommend that if you are coming from the north do not follow the driving instructions the centre provides which take you through Giggleswick. This road is a long series of very tight roads with up and downhill sections as step as 1 in 6. My brakes were screaming and smoking! Use the route through Malham village. Whilst this is slightly longer it is a much easier drive. I would recommend Malham Tarn and will certainly be hoping to return (just not on the Harry Potter Walk!)
