Whether you seek tranquillity, adventure, or simply a moment of awe-inspiring beauty, the waterfalls in the Lake District are sure to leave an indelible mark.
Imagine standing in front of majestic falls, witnessing the water gracefully tumble over rugged rocks, creating a symphony of movement and sound. These waterfalls, shaped by centuries of natural forces, have become hidden gems waiting to be discovered by avid explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Discover the best waterfalls in the Lake District below…
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Lake District Waterfalls FAQ
The Best Lake District Waterfalls
Lake District Waterfalls Map
Lake District Waterfalls FAQs
What is the most visited waterfall in the Lake District?
Whilst there are several beautiful waterfalls in the region, one of the most visited is Aira Force. Aira Force is located near Ullswater. Its accessibility and natural beauty make it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts.
What is the nicest Lake District waterfall?
The Lake District is home to many breath-taking waterfalls, and determining the “nicest” one is subjective! My favourite waterfall is the hidden gem of Whorneyside Force. Be surrounded by the towering fells of the Langdale Pikes, whilst the waterfall cascades down a series of rocky ledges!
What is the highest waterfall in the Lake District?
The highest waterfall in the Lake District is Hardraw Force. It is located near the village of Hardraw in Wensleydale, which is just outside the boundaries of the Lake District National Park but is still often considered part of the region. Hardraw Force is a stunning waterfall with a single drop of approximately 100 feet (30 meters).
The Best Lake District Waterfalls
1. Rydal Hall Waterfall, Rydal
Kick-starting our guide to waterfalls in the Lake District is the breath-taking Rydal Hall Waterfall. This picturesque waterfall is situated on the grounds of Rydal Hall, a historic country house and estate, which has been owned by the Le Fleming family since the 16th century.
The waterfall is fed by the waters of Rydal Beck, which flow down from the surrounding fells and mountains. The waterfall cascades over several tiers of rocks, creating a display of water and mist.
Rydal Hall Waterfall is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Lake District National Park. Its natural beauty, combined with the rich history and cultural heritage of the surrounding estate, makes it a truly unique and enchanting place to visit.
Parking: Rydal Hall, Ambleside, LLA22 9LX
Parking Charge: Car parking £10, with £5 voucher to use in the tea shop the same day
2. Moss Force, Buttermere
Situated in the Borrowdale Valley, this Buttermere waterfall is nestled within a beautiful natural setting and is a popular spot for visitors to the village.
The waterfall is fed by Moss Beck, a small stream that flows down from the surrounding fells. As the stream cascades over the rocky terrain, it creates a series of picturesque waterfalls before reaching the main drop of Moss Force.
The waterfall itself is a dramatic sight, with water plunging over 100 meters into a deep pool below. The pool is surrounded by moss-covered rocks, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and reflection.
To find this waterfall in the Lake District, you will follow the Newland Pass, a scenic, single-track road with Moss Force as the perfect rest bite on your Lakeland tour. It’s less than a mile from the roadside and an easy, gravel path runs almost to the head of the falls.
Parking: Cockermouth, CA13 9XA
Parking Charge: Free
3. Aira Force, Glenridding
Aira Force is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Lake District and is easy to reach from Ullswater. The waterfall is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The waterfall is approximately 65 feet tall and is formed by the waters of the Aira Beck as it cascades down a series of rocky steps. Visitors can access the waterfall via a well-maintained path that takes them through a wooded area and across a charming stone bridge that spans the beck.
The path offers spectacular views of the waterfall from several vantage points, and visitors can also explore the surrounding woodland, which is home to a variety of wildlife. It’s not surprising that Air Force is one of the best waterfalls in the UK.
Aira Force has been a popular attraction for centuries and was even visited by the famous English poet William Wordsworth, who wrote about the waterfall in his poetry. Today, visitors can learn about the history of the waterfall and the surrounding area at the nearby National Trust shop and visitor centre.
Parking: Penrith, CA11 0JS
Parking Charge: £5 for 2 hours, £7 for 4 hours, £8.50 all day, NT Members park for free
4. Scale Force, Buttermere
The highest waterfall in the Lake District, Scale Force is a remarkable sight. It’s tucked away inside a tree-lined gorge and has been a top attraction since the early days of Lake District tourism.
To reach Scale Force, visitors must first navigate a winding path that takes them through a forested area, and then cross a wooden bridge that spans the beck.
From there, the path becomes steep and rocky as it ascends towards the waterfall. The hike can be challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding countryside make it well worth the effort.
Once at the waterfall, visitors are greeted by a breath-taking sight as the water cascades down the rocky cliffs into a deep pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by rugged cliffs and verdant foliage, creating a truly magical and tranquil atmosphere.
Parking: Buttermere Court Hotel, CA13 9XA
Parking Charge: £3.50 for 2 hours, £6 for 4 hours and £8 for up to 12 hours
5. Whorneyside Force Waterfall, Great Langdale
This Lake District waterfall is nestled within the Great Langdale Valley, which is surrounded by breath-taking mountain scenery.
The waterfall itself is situated on the slopes of the towering mountains of the Langdale Pikes. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky ledges, creating a stunning display of water and spray that is truly mesmerising.
The best way to experience the Great Langdale waterfall is by hiking the well-known Langdale Pikes trail. The trail is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the Lake District.
As you climb higher, the views become more spectacular. You can see the Lake District waterfall in all its glory from several vantage points along the trail.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic spot to relax and take in the natural beauty, the cascade is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
Parking: Old Dungeon Ghyll, LA22 9JY
Parking Charge: £4.50 for 2 hours, £6.50 for 2-4 hours and £7.50 all day, NT Members park for free
6. Lodore Falls, Keswick
If you are looking for waterfalls near Keswick, be sure to include Ladore Falls on your list! This magnificent waterfall is located in Borrowdale and is one of the most well-known waterfalls in the Lake District, with a drop of approximately 100 feet.
Visitors to Lodore Falls can access the waterfall via a footpath that winds its way through the surrounding woodland. The path is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Admire the waters of the River Derwent as it cascades over a series of rocky steps and the rugged cliffs and lush greenery that surrounds it!
Parking: National Trust Kettlewell Car Park, CA12 5UU
Parking Charge: £5 up to 2 hours, £7 up to 4 hours, 8.50 all day, NT Members park for free
7. Stanley Ghyll Force, Eskdale
One of the best waterfalls in the Lake District, Stanley Ghyll Force is a must-see if you’re staying in Eskdale. The waterfall is situated in a secluded valley near the village of Boot and is one of the hidden gems of the area.
You can park at Dalegarth Train Station and follow the river trail through Stanley Ghyll Woods. Known for its humid, sheltered environment, the woodland is rainforest-like, rich in mosses and rare ferns.
The path leading to the falls is mainly flat but becomes steeper, slippery and unfenced as you reach the waterfall. However, the view is worth the scramble!
Watch the water crash into the plunge pool and spot the Scafell Pike in the distance, one of the best mountains in the Lake District. The area has been rewilded with native vegetation for a spectacular setting of light and birdsong.
Parking: Dalegarth Train Station, CA19 1SW
Parking Charge: £2.25 up to 2 hours, £5 all day
8. Sour Milk Ghyll, Grasmere
A must if you’re staying in Grasmere, Sour Milk Ghyll is easy to find on a climb from the village centre up to Easedale Tarn.
This Lake District waterfall was named after its white, swirling waters that trickle down the rocks. Once known as Churn Milk Force, Dorothy Wordsworth likened them ‘to a broad stream of snow’.
You’ll find a signposted footpath to the tarn with the waterfalls on your right as you climb higher. Easedale Tarn is a romantic spot surrounded by grassy hills and glacial debris left by retreating ice some 20,000 years ago.
Be sure to bring your walking boots, water and a picnic as there’s quite a hike to the top. But between Sour Milk and the far-reaching views, it’ll be worth it! This area is also popular for wild swimming with plenty of pools near the footpath to take a dip.
Parking: Grasmere, LA22 9TA
Parking Charge: £3 for 2 hours, £5.40 for 4 hours, £8.80 for 9 hours
9. Skelwith Force, Skelwith Bridge
Skelwith Force is one of the smaller Lake District waterfalls on our guide and is a lesser-known attraction within the national park, guaranteeing peace and quiet!
Find the waterfall on the banks of the River Brathay in the village of Skelwith Bridge, not far from Ambleside, to admire the spectacle. The water becomes especially loud and thunderous after heavy rain!
To reach the waterfall, visitors can follow a scenic path that winds its way through the picturesque landscape. As you stroll along, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with glimpses of the sparkling river and moss-covered rocks that lead to the falls.
As with most Lake District walks, waterproofs and sensible shoes are a must!
Skelwith Force is a place of natural splendour, where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambience of the Lake District. It is a haven for photographers, hikers, and those seeking a moment of calm amidst the wonders of nature.
Parking: Silverthwaite Car Park, Skelwith Bridge, LA22 9NJ
Parking Charge: Pay and display parking with the option of paying online
10. Colwith Force, Skelwith Bridge
Concluding our guide to waterfalls in the Lake District is the natural wonder of Colwith Force. This is a gorgeous cascade that drops in several stages.
You can combine your visit with the smaller Skelwith Force for a memorable walk. Both waterfalls lie along the River Brathay in the Langdale Valley. The area is scattered with craggy peaks and white-washed cottages, with the picturesque village of Elterwater known as its gateway.
The circular path is not too challenging and takes you through woodland and riverside meadows. We recommend visiting after heavy rain to see Colwith and Skelwith at their best. Look forward to an impressive curtain of water over the rocks!
Parking: Silverthwaite Car Park, Skelwith Bridge, LA22 9NJ
Parking Charge: Pay and display parking with the option of paying online
Lake District Waterfalls Map
Have these Lake District waterfalls inspired your next staycation? Discover a range of Lake District holiday cottages to call home whilst you explore the wonderful sights. For more ideas to plan your trip, visit our Lake District Travel Guide.
Image credits: Peter Trimming – (CC BY-SA 2.0); alh1 – (CC BY-ND 2.0)