12 Waterfall walks in the Lake District
While the Lake District can’t boast anything on the scale of Niagra Falls (the highest is Scale Force, near Buttermere, which has a drop of around 170 feet), we do have our fair share of impressive waterfalls – or forces, as they’re known here – that offer adventurous walks to reach, awe-inspiring views when you get there and, in some cases, magical plunge pools for a refreshing wild swim.
Can you feel the force?
We’ve rounded up a few of our favourites – a mixture of the well-known and not-so-well-known – to visit while you’re in our beautiful county. If you need a place to stay while you’re here, the perfect retreat is only a few clicks away.
The best-wet weather walks
And remember, waterfalls are usually at their roaring best after rainfall – and we do tend to get quite a lot of that up here. Lucky us.
So, whatever the weather, let’s head out and explore our 11 Favourite Waterfalls in the Lake District – if it’s sunny, don’t forget your swimmers!…
1. Aira Force
When you’re standing on the stone footbridge looking down at the cascading torrent of Aira Force, you’ll be following in the footsteps of thousands of others, as this is the most-visited waterfall in the Lake District. And with good reason.
Located in National Trust-owned Gowbarrow Park, near Ullswater, the dramatically beautiful drop (around 70 feet) has inspired Wordsworth to wax lyrical in several poems, and is surrounded by glorious woodland.
There are several trails up to the force, but the easiest and best-maintained starts at the main Aira Force car park.
Can I swim at Aira Force?
Not at the bottom of Aira Force, but if you venture higher, to the High Cascades, there are several swimming holes you can take a dip in.
Make sure you go well prepared (it will be cold in the water) and not after heavy rain when the water will be foamier and murkier and the currents stronger.
2. Forces Falls
Home to a number of high falls and deep pools, commonly known as Forces Falls, in the secluded Swindale valley near Haweswater is one of the lesser-visited valleys in the Lakes.
But, if you do make the effort to get there, you’ll be rewarded with a series of beautiful waterfalls in a peaceful setting along Mosedale Beck.
If you’re lucky, you may even have them all to yourself.
Can I swim at Forces Falls?
Definitely – there’s a mixture of shallow pools for paddling, and deeper pools you can take a proper plunge in.
3. Stock Ghyll Force
Just a short stroll from the centre of Ambleside, and an easy climb up through the woods, the spectacular 70-foot double-drop Stock Ghyll Force cascades in a V shape back down the hill towards the village, flowing under the famous Bridge House.
There are several railed viewing points along the route, to the top that make perfect stops for a few pictures.
Harking back to Cumbria’s industrial past, the crashing falls used to power 12 local watermills – you can still see the remains of some of the buildings.
Can I swim at Stock Ghyll Force?
Unfortunately not – there is no access to the base of the falls and Ghyll Scrambling is no longer allowed due to conservation efforts attempting to maintain the ecosystem of the river.
4. Coniston Coppermines waterfall
A favourite with wild swimmers in the know, and only a shortish hike from the centre of Coniston, the Coppermines waterfall is a magical little place with a small pool of crystal-clear turquoise water to take the plunge in – the only tricky bit is the final scramble down to it, but when you’re down there though, surrounded on all sides by the rocks, it really does feel like you’re in a secret hiding place that only you know about.
Having said that, do visit early in the morning or at the end of the day if you want any chance of having it to yourself.
If you fancy a swim that’s a bit less hard to find
Head to the southern end of Coniston Water and swim the 100m out to Wild Cat Island (actually Peel Island) – featured in Arthur Ransome’s Swallows & Amazons, you’ll enjoy navigating the rocky headlands and discovering the secluded coves.
Can I swim at Coniston Coppermines waterfall?
Yes. There’s a tricky scramble down to get in but, once you’re there, it’s magical.
5. Whorneyside Force
Dropping around 70 feet into a crystal-clear round pool – perfect for cooling off in after the hike up, Whorneyside Force can be found in the shadow of Crinkle Crags in the breathtakingly beautiful Great Langdale Valley.
Located about 3km from The ODG (Old Dungeon Ghyll) there’s the nearby Stickle Ghyll Car Park, a moderate walk takes you to one of our favourite spots – just don’t tell everyone!
Can I swim at Whorneyside Force?
Yes – it’s a perfect spot for a wild dip. The emerald green water is not too deep and the views of the waterfall and the surrounding countryside are a sight to behold.
6. Rydal Falls
When you’re sitting on the window seat at Rydal Grot – a simple stone viewing hut built in 1668 – and looking out at the falls cascading into the pool below, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical fairy tale.
You can find this gorgeous woodland spot, which has inspired Wordsworth to poetry and John Constable to whip out brush and canvas, in the grounds of Rydal Hall near Ambleside – and it’s free to visit too.
Can I swim at Rydal Falls?
For environmental reasons, you’re not allowed to swim in the pool here.
7. Scale Force
When you’re gazing at the glorious Scale Force tumbling into the narrow moss-lined chasm below, it’s hard to imagine you’re still in the UK.
The highest waterfall in the Lake District, with a drop of around 170 feet, this dramatic torrent is hidden away in a tree-lined gorge near Crummock Water.
You can park at Buttermere and then it’s a mostly flat walk with a climb at the end and a rocky scramble to the upper part of the falls (where you’ll get the best views) – just over two and a half miles in all. Believe us – it’s well worth the effort.
Can I swim at Scale Force?
You can, but the water in the small pool at the base is icy cold all year round so it’s not for the fainthearted.
That being said, the view looking up at the falls and the cliff walls is so otherworldly, the shivers and goosebumps are a small price to pay.
8. Galleny Force
Close to Stonethwaite in beautiful Borrowdale, in an ancient wooded gorge, with shallow, crystal clear plunge pools fed by small cascades, you’ll find a area known as Fairy Glen.
As its name suggests, it’s a dreamy spot for the whole family to swim, relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
Take a picnic as you may find it hard to tear yourself away in the warmer months.
Can I swim at Galleny Force?
Yes – there are several pools to take the plunge in, but they’re best avoided after heavy rainfall due to the strong currents.
9. Stanley Ghyll Force
Hidden away among sheer rock faces and tropical-looking foliage, pretty-as-a-picture Stanley Force in Dalegarth, near Eskdale, is an eye-catching sight – no wonder it’s one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Lake District.
Tumbling 20 metres into a deep plunge pool, you can get breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape from the newly-built viewing platform, which extends five metres out over Stanley Ghyll.
Can I swim at Stanley Ghyll Force?
It’s not recommended at the moment because of the danger of falling rocks from the cliffs.
10. Ritson’s Force
It’s easy to get to Ritson’s Force – named for tall-tale teller and first landlord of the Wasdale Head Inn, Will Ritson.
The trail starts behind the inn, and a short, picturesque walk later, you arrive at a number of small and inviting plunge pools and the attractive cascades that make up Ritson’s Force.
And, when you’re done, you can walk back to the pub and get the beers in.
Can I swim at Ritson’s Force?
You certainly can. The clear blue waters positively encourage it. Our must-swim pool is the cave waterfall pool, which is the biggest and the deepest of the pools you’ll encounter as you head upstream.
11. Colwith Force
Colwith Force offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquillity, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re there for a hike, a picnic, or simply to soak in the serenity, it promises a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The waterfall cascades down several tiers, with a total drop of about 40 feet (12 metres). Each tier offers a unique visual experience, especially after heavy rain. And, the surrounding woodland adds to the waterfall’s beauty, with moss-covered rocks and lush greenery enhancing its tranquil vibe.
Can you swim at Colwith Force?
Swimming isn’t recommended due to habitat concerns, and strong currents.
12. Skelwith Force
Skelwith Force offers a combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and a powerful display of nature’s force, making it a wonderful destination for visitors exploring the Lake District.
Despite being relatively small, Skelwith Force is powerful. The waterfall drops around 16 feet (5 metres) over a wide rock ledge. The volume of water passing over the falls is particularly impressive, especially after heavy rainfall, creating a dramatic and thunderous spectacle.
The waterfall is part of several popular walking routes, including the path to Elterwater, providing a perfect blend of gentle exercise and stunning scenery.
Can I swim at Skelwith Force?
Swimming isn’t recommended due to habitat concerns, and strong currents.
Where to stay
Which waterfall will you visit first? This is just a small selection of the forces you can find in the Lakes – there are loads more to discover.
If you need somewhere to stay on your next visit, we’ve got comfy cottages all over the Lake District to plan your watery trips.
Stay on the shore
If you really can’t bear to be far from water, check out our river and lakeside cottages.
Discover more of the Lake District
With weekly articles highlighting the very best of the Lake District, there’s always something to get you inspired for your next trip!
If you’d like to be the first to hear of our guides, all our new property listings, events around the lakes, and our last-minute deals…
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Lakeside strolls, challenging climbs, scrambles, serene valleys, industrial remains, vast caverns, flooded quarries… Coniston has them all!
Ambleside boat trips and water sports
You can’t visit the Lakes without taking to the water at some point. And, one of the best ways to see the spectacular scenery is from a boat!
Hawkshead’s delicious cafés and restaurants
If hunger strikes when you’re wandering through Hawkshead, you’ll be spoilt for choice with everything from cosy pubs to traditional tearooms
Events in Ambleside
There’s always lots going on in bustling Ambleside – it is one of the most visited places in the Lake District, after all!
Places to eat in the Lake District
The Cumbrian food scene has never been tastier – with an abundance of incredible local ingredients on the doorstep
Staveley Restaurants
Staveley offers plenty of food and drink options but, with no restaurants in the village, eating out in the evenings is bit more limited
