For waterfall lovers, Yorkshire is one of the best places to explore. Home to England’s highest single-drop waterfall, a cascade that’s home to a fairy queen, and many more hidden gems, you’re truly spoilt for choice.
Few things in life evoke awe quite like stumbling upon a magical waterfall. As you hear the gentle roar from a distance, anticipation builds – until you turn a corner and there it is, cascading before you. As water crashes over rocks and flows away in a torrent, the urge to kick off your shoes and dip your toes into the cold, clear stream becomes almost irresistible. Add the soundtrack of rustling leaves, birdsong, and the quiet stir of wildlife along the banks, and it feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Nestled amidst its National Parks, looking for Yorkshire’s magical waterfalls is one of the best things to do during your stay. Here are a few of our favourites to get you started…
Aysgarth Falls
Found in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Aysgarth Falls sits within Freeholders Wood. There are three separate falls to discover: Low Force, Middle Force, and High Force, plus on the way there, you’ll enjoy views over Wensleydale and Bolton Castle. All are easy to reach thanks to a purpose-built footpath, which starts at the National Park Centre and offers various lengths - including one fabulously wheel-friendly path - cementing Aysgarth Falls as one of the best walks in Yorkshire.
When you reach the falls, head to the viewing platform over Middle Force, which you can access by walking down the steps. From here, you can turn back or you can tie it in with a longer route to enjoy more of the surrounding grass and woodland. Park at the Aysgarth Falls National Park car park and allow an hour for the shortest route option.
West Burton Falls
West Burton Falls, otherwise known as Cauldron Falls due to the oh-so-swimmable plunge pool, offers another spectacular spot to watch the power of nature at work. It’s also somewhat of a hidden gem thanks to its out-of-the-way location near the popular Aysgarth Falls.
The beautiful waterfall lies a short distance from the charming village of West Burton, inviting you to enjoy a lovely woodland wander before reaching the falls, which famous painter Turner once immortalised during his tour of the Dales.
Hardraw Force
The largest single-drop falls in England, Hardraw Force is a true sight to behold. A short drive from Hawes, the birthplace of Wensleydale cheese and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Yorkshire, the waterfalls cascade from a height of almost 100 feet. At its base is a scattering of rocks surrounded by pretty woodland and a small pool of water, where you can dip your toes in.
The path leading to the falls is level, which means it can be enjoyed while pushing prams or using wheelchairs. Hardraw Force is privately owned, set within the grounds of the Green Dragon Inn. There is a small entrance fee to contribute towards the maintenance of the grounds and you can stop off at the pub for a bite to eat. Park at the pub and access the falls walk to the left of the car park, or tie it in with a 4-mile circular walk from Hawes.
Janet’s Foss
Top of the list of enchanting waterfalls in Yorkshire is Janet’s Foss. Named after the Queen of the Fairies, who is supposed to live behind the curtain of tumbling water, it's not just the folklore that makes this spot magical. The setting is picture-perfect, with the river flowing over a bed of mossy stones and culminating in a crystal-clear pool.
The surroundings are quiet woodland, with free-hanging leafy branches crowning the waterfall and birdsong all around. In the spring, the area is further embellished with wild garlic and bluebells. Many opt to tie their visit to Janet’s Foss in with a 5-mile circular walk from the nearby village of Malham – the perks being that you will also see the limestone cliff at Malham Cove and a second, but smaller waterfall called Gordale Scar. However, there’s also the option to park your car on the side of the road nearby, if you are lucky enough to get a space.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
Dubbed one of the best woodland walks in Yorkshire, Ingleton Waterfalls Trail has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England. Carving its way for 4 miles through nature-rich woodland, it traverses the banks of two rivers – Twiss and Doe. Look out for birds and butterflies along the way, and pretty purple flowers dotted in between the moss and ferns.
There are activity packs available for children, as well as a Geology and Ecology Trail Guide you can download to learn more about the Ingelton landscape. There’s an entrance fee, but it's well worth it for the opportunity to spot six of Yorkshire’s stunning waterfalls. The most impressive is Thornton Force, which drops from a height of 45 feet and forms a deep pool popular with swimmers. There is free parking on-site and the walk takes 2 to 3 hours.
Posforth Gill Falls
Set within the sinister-sounding Valley of Desolation, Posforth Gill Falls sits within the woodland of the Bolton Abbey Estate. A footpath leads from the car park at Cavendish Pavillion upstream and down a track, then over a tiny wooden bridge to reach the cascade.
Upon arrival, you’ll discover water tumbling over rounded boulders surrounded by lush vegetation. On a clear day, follow the trail up to the rocky outcrop of Simon’s Seat for sweeping views across the valley. Or, head back to Bolton Abbey to explore the 12th-century priory church and ruins. The spa town of Ilkley is a great option for accommodation if you’re looking to discover more of the area. Set within the Wharfe Valley, it's the perfect launchpad for exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
Catrigg Force
For a more secluded spot, Catrigg Force lies deep within a wooded gorge near the vibrant market town of Settle. With steep sides and a double-drop cascade, the deep pool underneath it makes for one of Yorkshire’s most magical wild swimming spots. Once frequented by composer Edward Elgar, it's possible that this serene setting inspired his classical compositions. Over the years, the site's natural beauty has also captured the imaginations of photographers and artists.
To reach the waterfall, leave your car in the National Trust car park in the village of Stainforth. From here, it’s a mile through open fields and woodland, then up a set of limestone steps. Along the way, you’ll also be treated to a beautiful view over Ribblesdale and the Three Peaks.
Richmond Falls
A popular tourist spot because of its location in Richmond town, Richmond Falls form part of the River Swale. The falls tumble down a series of limestone ledges, similar to Aysgarth Falls. On one side of the river, there are large flat stones you can sit on and even have a picnic next to the water.
On the other side of the banks, Richmond Castle has been keeping watch for almost a thousand years. Altogether, it’s a relaxing setting, though it can get busy during the day. Finding Richmond Falls is easy as they’re near the centre of the town. Leave your car in the small pay and display car park, which is right next to the river.
Mallyan Spout
The highest waterfall in the North Yorkshire Moors, Mallyan Spout is over 70 feet tall. Its natural beauty is such that it's been capturing the hearts of visitors since the Victorian era and there’s a well-walked trail to reach the foot of the falls. Since then, the surrounding area has gained popularity as a filming location for the Heartbeat TV series and the nearby Goathland train station was also featured in the Harry Potter films.
To reach Mallyan Spout, park in Goathland village and make the short walk to the Mallyan Spout Hotel. From here, take the footpath following along the ledge of the ravine, which will take you straight to the waterfall. It’s best to visit in winter or early spring when the water is running its fastest - after heavy rainfall will result in the best views. At this time of year, the pool at the bottom of the falls will also be deep enough for a cold water dip.
Falling Foss
For visitors to the stunning seaside town of Whitby, Falling Foss is your closest waterfall option. Take a break from the pretty beaches and harbour and head inland to immerse yourself in a green-bejewelled waterfall wilderness.
Leave your car at the car park at Sneaton Forest, then follow the signs through the woodland until you reach the waterfalls. It’s a short walk and will only take about fifteen minutes. During the warmer months, stop off at Falling Foss Tea Garden – though be sure to check visitor times as it is a seasonal business. From the al fresco café, you’ll have a view of the waterfall, or you can climb down a steep path to reach its foot. Be careful, though, as it can be slippery!
For the ultimate exploration of Yorkshire’s best waterfalls, why not turn it into a weekend of adventure? Our holiday cottages in Yorkshire are near many of the best waterfall walks, providing the perfect launchpad.
