Waterfalls and forces in the local area

14 July 2022

While enjoying a holiday with us, you may look to explore some of the natural beauty that surrounds our parks. Here’s a list of just some of the local waterfalls and forces you can visit.

Colwith Force – Ambleside – Situated on the River Brathay, the stunning Colwith force is approximately 55 ft. and provides amazing views. There is limited car parking but a few spots are available near Colwith Bridge. Follow the clear footpath up to the falls with two vantage points to view from, the walk is around 0.5 mile up and down so is a nice short route and can be linked into longer walks if needed. Find out more about Colwith Force here.
Skelwith Force – Skelwith Bridge – A lot smaller than it’s close neighbour Colwith Force, Skelwith Force is just 16 ft. but can provide an amazing watch after heavy rain. It’s located just behind the Skelwith Bridge Hotel, with a clear pathway to the falls. Find out more about Skelwith Force here.
Stock Ghyll Force – Ambleside – If you park in the centre of Ambleside, you can enjoy the walk up to Stock Ghyll Force and watch the superb 70 ft. waterfall from the safety of a railed viewpoint. Find out more about Stock Ghyll Force here.
Hellgill Force – Garsdale Head – Hellgill Force is just a short walk from the B6259 between Garsdale Head and Kirkby Stephen, with a small parking area alongside the railway bridge at Aisgill Moor Cottages. The walk itself is only short to Hellgill Bridge on the Pennine Bridleway, giving easy access up to the approximately 25ft. waterfall. You can find out more about Hellgill Force here.
Rydal Falls – Rydal – Located just outside of Ambleside towards Grasmere, Rydal Hall is a brilliant family walk with the waterfall and a sculpture walk. You can park at the main car park for just £5 and park for the day, giving you time to explore the waterfall and the beautiful surroundings which include a café and toilet. Find out more about Rydal Falls here.
Stanley Ghyll Force – Eskdale – With parking at St. Catherine’s Church, follow the large fairy steps up to the river trail, you will follow the path all the way up to Stanley Ghyll. The powerful falls will be worth the walk and provide an excellent spectacular all year round. Find out more about Stanley Ghyll Force here.
Scale Force – Buttermere – Parking is available at Buttermere car park, with a approximate 2.5 mile walk to the falls and back. The falls themselves definitely won’t disappoint, showcasing the largest drop in the Lake District. Find out more about Scale Force here.
Lodore Falls – Keswick – Hidden behind the hotel itself, Lodore Falls have been attracting people for many years to see the beautiful site of the falls as the water cascades over boulders throughout. Fin out more about Lodore Falls here.
Aira Force – Glenridding – The waterfall falls a incredible 70 ft. and is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Lake District. There is a stone footbridge below providing a stunning viewing platform for all at the foot of the main fall. Find out more about Aira Force here.
Ingleton Falls – Ingleton – Spanning over four and a half miles, Ingleton waterfall trail is a day out to remember. It can take approximately 2.5 – 4 hours to complete depending on your fitness levels but is full of rare plants and wildlife to spot. Find out more about Ingleton Falls here.