Malham Cove

One of the Yorkshire Dales' most spectacular natural amphitheatres: a curving 80-metre limestone cliff topped by a famous pavement of weathered clints and grikes, with Malham Beck emerging from its base. The sheer white wall, the geometric limestone pavement and the green valley below make this an unforgettable aerial subject, and the surrounding Craven landscape of drystone walls and pale scars is endlessly photogenic. It is also, however, one of the busiest sites on this list and one to approach with real care. Peregrine falcons regularly nest on the Cove face, and during the breeding season (typically spring into summer) there are active nest-protection measures, so flying near the cliff is off-limits at those times and you must give the face a wide berth year-round. The valley draws large crowds, so keep well away from walkers on the pavement and the approach path, and much of the wider Malham Tarn estate above is National Trust land where take-off is not permitted. Fly considerately under the Yorkshire Dales National Park's guidance, launch from public ground away from people, and never overfly the packed viewpoints. There is no airport restriction zone here. Choose an early weekday morning for thinner crowds, calmer air and the soft light that makes the pale limestone glow.