One of my favourite parts of exploring the natural beauty of the Lake District, is stumbling across a number of stunning waterfalls.
Each one is unique, offering its own beautiful surroundings, picturesque views and soothing sounds.
From the calming cascades of Scale Force to the thundering torrents of Aira Force, I don’t think you can visit the region without experiencing at least one of the epic waterfalls in the Lake District.
To find these breathtaking waterfalls, you might need to venture off the beaten path and explore the hidden corners of the Lakes – but in my opinion, that’s the best part!
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can easily visit a few different waterfalls in one day and fully embrace the beauty and power of the Lake District’s towering waterfalls.
I adore spending time in the Lake District and I’ve put together this Lake District waterfalls guide based on my own personal experiences and recommendations from locals.
With their tranquil beauty and awe-inspiring power, these natural wonders are sure to be utterly unforgettable.
So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the epic waterfalls of the Lake District with me.
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
Tips for finding and visiting waterfalls in the Lake District
1. Bring spare change for parking
Note that it usually costs a minimum of £5 to park – more if you need a good few hours or a half / whole day.
Not only that but many car parks in the Lake District do not accept card payments to pay your parking fare. Rather frustratingly, even the machines which do accept cards often don’t work.
While some do have apps or phone numbers that you can call to pay through, there’s rarely any phone signal.
This was a real (and constant) bug bear when I was visiting some of the incredible waterfalls in the Lake District.
So my top tip is to make sure you bring lots of coins and don’t rely on being able to pay by card, app or phone.
2. Overestimate how much time you’ll need to park
The car parks aren’t always close to the waterfalls, so make sure you pay for plenty of parking. I’d advise paying for more than you think you’ll need.
The trails can take longer to hike than you planned for, plus you need to factor in some relaxation time at the waterfalls for snacks and a swim.
The last thing you want is to be running back from the waterfalls because your parking has run out. I may or may not have done this on more than one occasion – don’t be like me!
3. Plan your route beforehand
It can be a tough feat to find some signal in the Lake District as a whole, nevermind when you’re trekking through the countryside and hiking up waterfalls.
So I’d recommend planning out your route to the falls before you set off on your adventure.
Download it so you can see it offline – or take a good old-fashioned physical map! Poor signal will make navigating on the go using Google Maps and similar apps difficult.
4. Wear appropriate clothing
The Great British weather isn’t often associated with sunshine and heatwaves. Even if it’s sunny when you set off, it doesn’t mean it’ll stay like that!
The weather in the Lake District can be very changeable and unpredictable, so dress accordingly.
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as many of the trails are rocky and uneven – I often find it to be prime ankle twisting territory!
Some waterfalls allow visitors to have a swim. So if you’re journeying to one of those, I’d recommend packing your swim stuff and a towel too.
5. Bring water and snacks
Snacks are always a good idea, but especially when you’re hiking to one of the Lake District’s waterfalls. Some of the walks can be quite long, so bringing enough water to stay hydrated is an absolute must.
I’d also recommend bringing a packed lunch or small picnic with you to have at the waterfall. What better place to enjoy a picnic than surrounded by immense natural beauty?
6. Don’t leave any rubbish behind
I shouldn’t have to say this, but ensure that you don’t leave any rubbish behind – not only at the waterfall, but along the walk there and back.
Pack any wrappers, plastic bottles and bags back up and bring them home with you, or dispose of them properly.
7. Tell someone where you’re going
If you’re heading off on a solo adventure, it’s good practice to tell someone where you’re going.
Most of the Lake District exploring I’ve done has been a solo adventure, but I always make sure someone knows where I am.
Just in the unlikely event that something goes wrong; remember, the weather can change quickly in these areas.
8. Book a pre-organised tour
To take the research and planning off your plate, I’d suggest booking a full-day tour of the lakes. Explore beautiful valleys and majestic waterfalls as part of the trip.
You can discover more tips in my guide to visiting the Lake District.
15 best waterfalls in the Lake District
1. Whorneyside Force, Great Langdale
Nearest parking: Stickle Ghyll National Trust car park, LA22 9JU
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.5 miles
Walking time: 45 minutes to an hour
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Muddy and slippery in places
Possibly my favourite waterfall in the Lake District, Whorneyside Force is an imposing waterfall located in the Great Langdale valley.
The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky steps, creating a uniquely beautiful and dramatic sight. To get to Whorneyside Force, you’ll need to park at the National Trust car park at Stickle Ghyll.
From there, the walk is around 1.5 miles long and takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.
The path to Whorneyside Force is relatively easy, but it can be muddy and slippery in places – so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
Along the way, you’ll pass through some beautiful scenery, including wooded areas and open fields that make for a nice picnic spot.
The waterfall itself is of epic proportions – it really did take my breath away! I’d recommend having a picnic, going for a swim and snapping some photos.
Good to know: As it’s a bit of a trek to reach, there are never too many people at Whorneyside Force, which is an added bonus.
2. Aira Force, Ullswater
Nearest parking: Aira Force National Trust car park, CA11 0JS
Distance from car park: Approximately 0.5 miles
Walking time: 15 to 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Steep and rugged
Aira Force – a towering 65-foot waterfall located on the eastern side of Ullswater – is another of my favourite waterfalls in the Lake District.
To find the waterfall, you’ll need to take a short walk through the forest, which is well signposted from the car park.
The nearest car park to Aira Force is the National Trust car park, located just off the A592. From the car park, the walk to the waterfall takes around 20 minutes and is relatively easy.
The path is well maintained, and there are plenty of benches along the way. Perfect for pausing to take in the picturesque surroundings.
I love that the waterfall is beautifully framed by a stone footbridge at the top. There is also a viewing platform close to the bottom of the waterfall, which provides the best photo opportunities.
If you want to explore the area further, there are several walking routes which start from the car park.
One of the most popular walks is the Aira Force and Gowbarrow Trail, which is a circular walk that takes in the waterfall and offers picture-perfect views of Ullswater.
Good to know: Dogs on leads are welcome at Aira Force. But they must be kept on a lead in order to protect the local wildlife and surrounding livestock.
3. Skelwith Force & Colwith Force, Elterwater
Skelwith Force:
Nearest parking: Elterwater National Trust car park, LA22 9HU
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.5 miles
Walking time: Approximately 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Mostly level ground
Colwith Force:
Nearest parking: Elterwater National Trust car park, LA22 9HU
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.3 miles
Walking time: Approximately 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Mostly level ground with some forest
If you’re looking for two waterfalls that are close together, I’d recommend Skelwith Force and Colwith Force as the perfect duo.
They’re located in the small village of Elterwater in the Lake District. To find Skelwith Force, you’ll need to take the A593 towards Ambleside and then on to Skelwith Bridge.
From the car park, you can follow the path down to the waterfall. It’s a relatively short walk, and the likelihood is you’ll be able to hear the waterfall before you see it.
Colwith Force can also be reached from the same car park.
The falls may be smaller than other waterfalls in the Lake District, but Colwith Force thrusts the water through a small gap, producing an impressive curtain of water.
Both waterfalls are beautiful and I think they’re absolutely worth a visit.
A popular hiking trail goes from nearby Elterwater to both Skelwith Force & Colwith Force – showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
Make sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the paths can become slippery.
Good to know: These waterfalls are at their best after rainfall, but that does make the terrain more difficult to navigate.
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4. Stanley Ghyll Force, Eskdale
Nearest parking: Dalegarth train station, CA19 1TG
Distance from car park: Approximately 1 mile
Walking time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Rocky and slippery in places with some sudden drops
Stanley Ghyll Force is another epic waterfall in the Lake District, located just a half hour walk from the nearest car park.
Situated in the Eskdale valley, I love that the trail to this waterfall offers lovely views across the valley.
Natural stone steps meet wooden bridges along the path to Stanley Ghyll Force, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sight. Stanley Ghyll Force is a 60-foot waterfall that cascades down over a series of rocks and boulders.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for nature lovers to embrace the Lake District countryside.
Good to know: You can no longer swim in this waterfall due to the high risk of rock falls. So don’t be tempted to take a dip, as it’s too risky.
5. Ritson’s Force, Mosedale Valley
Nearest parking: Wasdale Car Park for Scafell Pike, CA20 1EX
Distance from car park: 600 metres
Walking time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Grassy
If you’re looking for a peaceful secluded waterfall with incredible views, I’d recommend Ritson’s Force in the Mosedale Valley as the perfect destination.
While this hidden gem is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in the Lake District, trust me when I say that it’s definitely worth a visit.
What makes Ritson’s Force special is its bright turquoise water. It’s crystal clear and makes the most wonderful spot for a dip.
Ritson’s Force cascades down a series of rocky ledges, against a backdrop of peaks in the area – including the famous Scafell Pike.
The water flows into a number of small pools at the bottom, which are perfect for a refreshing plunge on a hot day.
Good to know: Most of the pools are relatively shallow and quite small, so ideal for a refreshing dip but not necessarily a swim.
The one exception is the cave pool, which is the deepest of all the pools and just about big enough for a small swim.
6. Thirlmere Infinity Pool, Thirlmere
Nearest parking: Legburthwaite Car Park, CA12 4TQ
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.2 miles
Walking time: Approximately 30 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Mostly uphill with some steep rocky sections
Thirlmere Infinity Pool is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Lake District. It’s so off the beaten track that its location isn’t even marked on Google Maps! But it’s another of my personal favourites.
This waterfall is a popular spot for wild swimming and offers a unique experience for those looking to cool off on a hot summer day. If you’re hoping to take a dip, remember to bring your swimwear!
The pool itself is a natural infinity pool, created by a small waterfall that flows into the larger pool below.
The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, although it can be quite cold even on a warm day.
The walk up to Thirlmere Infinity Pool is relatively short, but the last section is very steep.
While I can assure you that it’s worth the effort, it’s important to take your time and not rush to the waterfall.
Take in the views of the valleys and lakes as you ascend and descend, because they are utterly breathtaking.
7. Scale Force, Crummock Water
Nearest parking: National Trust Car Park Buttermere, CA13 9XA
Distance from car park: Approximately 2.4 miles
Walking time: Approximately 50 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Largely flat, with a climb towards the end
Located on the western side of Crummock Water, Scale Force is the highest waterfall in the Lake District, with a staggering drop of 170 feet.
A must-see waterfall in the Lake District, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Scale Force is in Iceland or New Zealand.
To get to Scale Force, park in nearby Buttermere. From there, it’s around a 50 minute walk to the waterfall.
The path is well-maintained, but a considerable climb and a bit of scrambling are required towards the end of the walk.
Once you arrive at Scale Force, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the waterfall cascading down the rocks.
To get to the upper section of the falls, you’ll need to do a bit of scrambling up some rocky areas.
If you’re interested in the geology of the area, you’ll be fascinated to know that Scale Force is formed from Borrowdale Volcanic rock, which is over 450 million years old.
The waterfall is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dippers and grey wagtails, so I’d recommend keeping an eye while you’re there!
Good to know: The walk can be boggy, even on hot days, so I’d suggest wearing shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
8. Rydal Falls, Rydal
Nearest parking: Rydal Hall, LA22 9LX
Distance from car park: < 0.1 miles
Walking time: A few minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Some slippy areas due to the spray from the falls
Rydal Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the lovely Rydal Hall in the Lake District. The waterfall cascades down a rocky slope, surrounded by lush greenery and moss-covered rocks.
The waterfall is at its best after heavy rainfall, when the water is flowing fast and the sound of the rushing water fills the air. However, even during drier periods, the waterfall is still a beautiful sight to behold.
There are several vantage points from which to view the waterfall, including a footbridge that crosses over the falls themselves.
If you’re a fan of Insta-worthy photo spots, the Grot is a cute little grotto that was built in 1668 and designed as a place to frame and enjoy the epic Rydal Falls.
For some reason, when I visited Rydal Falls, the Grot was closed (I was gutted!). It could have been because I visited quite near to closing time, so perhaps bear that in mind for your visit.
Good to know: The easiest place to park is at Rydal Hall itself, but in busy periods they don’t allow non-guests to park. There is on-street parking nearby or other car parks in the village.
9. Coniston Coppermines Waterfall, Coniston
Nearest parking: Old Station car park, LA21 8HU
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.1 miles
Walking time: Approximately 20 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Good path for much of the walk, then some steep inclines
Famed for its alluring turquoise colour, Coniston Coppermines Waterfall is a must-see when visiting the Lake District.
This impressive waterfall is located near the Lake District village of Coniston and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
To find the waterfall, you’ll need to take a short walk from the centre of Coniston along a private road to the falls. There are no signposts to the waterfall, so be sure to plan your route before setting off.
This first part of the walk is pretty straightforward, but getting to the actual waterfalls does require a steeper incline.
The smaller pools are relatively easy to access, but you’ll need to do a bit of scrambling to get to the star of the show – the bigger waterfall into the turquoise pool.
Good to know: You can go swimming at this spot but I’d recommend arriving early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
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10. Moss Force, Newlands Valley
Nearest parking: Free Roadside Car Park
Distance from car park: > 0.1 miles
Walking time: A couple of minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Rocky if climbing to the top
Moss Force is a beautiful waterfall located in the Newlands Valley in the Lake District, approximately 8 miles from Keswick.
The waterfall can be seen and reached from an unclassified road between the Lake District villages of Braithwaite and Buttermere.
There is a small free car park on the roadside, which is right at the bottom of the falls. Alternatively, if you prefer a bit of a walk, I’d recommend parking at the Buttermere National Trust Car Park.
Along the way, you’ll pass through some beautiful woodland, and cross over a small stream.
Good to know: You can climb up to the top of the waterfall by scrambling over the rocks. Be sure to take extra care if you do this, and only do so if you’re wearing the appropriate footwear.
11. Lodore Falls, Borrowdale
Nearest parking: National Trust Kettlewell Car Park, CA12 5UU
Distance from car park: 0.5 miles
Walking time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Can be very slippery after rainfall
Located in the Borrowdale valley, Lodore Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Lake District.
The falls are situated on the River Derwent and drop 100 feet into a pool below. To reach Lodore Falls, you can take the A66 road from Keswick towards Cockermouth.
The falls are located just behind the Lodore Falls Hotel. Note that the hotel car park is only available to guests, so your best bet is to park at the National Trust Kettlewell Car Park.
The path to the falls is scenic but enclosed with woodland and tree canopies.
Keen poets might recognise the name of the waterfall – Robert Southey’s famous onomatopoeic poem ‘The Cataract at Lodore’ was inspired by the falls.
Good to know: I’d only recommend visiting Lodore Falls when there has been a lot of wet weather. I visited in the summer and although there had been some rain, there was hardly any water flow and the result was somewhat disappointing!
12. Stock Ghyll Force, Ambleside
Nearest parking: Kelsick Rd Parking, LA22 0EA
Distance from car park: Approximately 0.7 miles
Walking time: Approximately 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Roads, pavements and paths
Another beautiful waterfall in the Lake District, Stock Ghyll Force in Ambleside is well worth a visit. It’s located just a short walk from the town centre of Ambleside and is easily accessible for visitors of all ages.
To find Stock Ghyll Force, head towards the centre of Ambleside and look for the signposted footpath that leads towards the waterfall.
The footpath is well-maintained and easy to follow, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding your way.
Once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll be welcomed by a stunning display of cascading water and beautiful natural surroundings.
The waterfall itself is around 70 feet tall and is surrounded by scenic woodland and rocky outcrops.
Stock Ghyll Force is wonderfully picturesque and I love that it’s another of the less crowded waterfalls in the Lake District.
Good to know: You’re no longer able to access the bottom pool and so there are no swimming opportunities here.
13. Sour Milk Gill, Grasmere
Nearest parking: Broadgate Meadow, LA22 9TA
Distance from car park: Approximately 1.4 miles
Walking time: Approximately 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Uphill, good terrain with some rocky patches
Sour Milk Gill is a beautiful waterfall located in the Grasmere area of the Lake District. The most popular way to visit the waterfall is with the Sour Milk Ghyll and Easedale Tarn circuit walk.
Its stunning mountain scenery and peaceful surroundings will beckon you closer to this gorgeous swimming spot.
To find Sour Milk Gill, you should start at the village of Grasmere and follow the footpath towards Easedale Tarn.
The waterfall is located approximately halfway along this path. There are limited signposts but it’s not too difficult to find.
Good to know: While visiting Sour Milk Gill, make sure you also spend some time at Easedale Tarn. This is also a fantastic spot for wild swimming and, trust me when I say that the scenery is jaw-dropping.
14. Dungeon Ghyll Force, Great Langdale
Nearest parking: Stickle Ghyll car park, LA22 9JU
Distance from car park: 0.5 miles
Walking time: Approximately 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Some rocky, uneven terrain
Dungeon Ghyll Force is a spectacular 40-foot waterfall that cascades down a steep rock face.
The water flows down a deep and impressive ravine. The waterfall is particularly impressive after heavy rain, when the water is at its most powerful.
Poets for generations have sought inspiration here, with the area being described in Wordsworth’s ‘The Idle Shepherd-Boys’.
The path to Dungeon Ghyll Force is well-maintained, although it can be steep and rocky in places. It is suitable for most walkers, although it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Good to know: If you want to extend your walk, I’d recommend continuing along the path to Stickle Tarn, which offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Alternatively, you can head back to the car park and explore the nearby villages of Elterwater and Chapel Stile.
15. Spout Force, Whinlatter Forest Park
Nearest parking: Whinlatter Forest Park, CA12 5TW
Distance from car park: Approximately 2 miles
Walking time: Approximately 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Mainly flat with a short climb up some steps
Spout Force is a striking waterfall located in Whinlatter Forest Park, near the town of Keswick and easily accessible from the A66 road.
To find Spout Force, you can park at the Whinlatter Forest Park car park. From there, it’s a two mile walk to Spout Force.
The waterfall itself is a beautiful sight, with water tumbling down a series of rock faces into a pool below.
The pool is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.
Good to know: For a shorter walk, there is space for a few cars just below Scawgill Bridge. From here you can walk up the path and along the beck to the waterfall.
See more of my Lake District content:
Planning a trip to the beautiful part of the UK? Discover my Lake District travel guide or read more of my Lake District articles:
- 20 best luxury hotels in the Lake District
- 20 pretty Lake District villages and towns to visit
- 23 best things to do in the Lake District
- 20 Michelin-star restaurants in the Lake District
- 21 amazing afternoon tea spots in the Lake District
Or read my Lake District hotel reviews of:
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