Beguiling, visually mesmerising, awe-inspiring - it's all but impossible not to be charmed by waterfalls. Each cascade is entirely unique. Some merge into multiple streams, tumbling over rock faces, others speed with unbelievable force down narrow valleys, or over cliff edges. Regardless of their exact make-up, all of them have the power to make us stop, stare, and ponder.
But where to find the best of them? While there's no universally agreed-upon number, it's believed there are around 125 waterfalls in the UK, though it's likely there are more that aren't widely known about. From gargantuan beauties to falls rich with folklore and fairytales, in this guide, we'll take you through the (in our opinion) most magical waterfalls in the UK.
West Burton Falls, North Yorkshire
If you're partial to a spot of wild swimming, you need to get yourself to West Burton Falls in North Yorkshire. This gorgeous waterfall is around 10 miles from the market town of Hawes and the handsome village of Muker.
Often called Cauldron Falls, you'll see why when you visit. At the bottom of the multi-tier waterfalls, you'll find a bubbling collection of pools that have the look of a cauldron about them.
If you prefer to stay dry, pack your binoculars instead and keep your eyes peeled for water birds, such as the bobbing dipper. Or explore the imposing fellside and go on a hike around the surrounding woodland.
Or envisage the view, practically unchanged, from when artist J. M. W. Turner first set foot here. He's said to have sketched the falls while travelling through Wensleydale in 1816, as part of his 19th-century tour of Yorkshire.
This waterfall and wild swimming spot is really accessible and just a few minutes' stroll from the village parking. It’s also only 2 miles up the road from Aysgarth Falls, another belter of a Yorkshire waterfall.
And if all that’s whet your appetite for gorgeous waterfalls in Yorkshire, check out our guide for your next trip (yes, there are more). Once you’re done touring waterfalls, check out the 14th-century Bolton Castle just 5 miles away, and whatever you do, don’t leave the area without visiting Wensleydale Creamery.
St Nectan’s Glen, Cornwall
Nestled deep in the forest not far from Tintagel, you'll find St Nectan's Glen, best known for its 18m waterfall, which flows through a naturally formed hole in the Devonian slate. The result is spectacular and attracts visitors year-round, so this spot is best enjoyed out of season or at least out of peak hours.
Many visitors believe it to be one of the country's most spiritual sites, and you'll often find ribbons, crystals, and other paraphernalia near the waterfall. It’s even been in the news of late after a family found a horned skull nearby, which quickly garnered the nickname ‘Merlin’s unicorn’. Indeed, the area has a long and varied history and is associated with Saint Nectan, who was once believed to have had a hermitage above the falls.
Beyond the waterfalls, St Nectan's Glen woodland is a fantastic place for a riverside ramble, rich with flora and fauna (and, just maybe, fairies, spirits, and piskies). Once you're done exploring, head to the Tree of Life Café for wedges of homemade cake, seasonal soups, and locally roasted coffee.
Afterwards, head 2 miles towards the coast to Tintagel and lose yourselves in dramatic coastal seascapes, the enchanting historical ruins of Tintagel Castle, and the legends of King Arthur.
Wailing Widow Falls, Scottish Highlands
If you want a marvel, head to the Scottish Highlands where two of the most impressive waterfalls reside. Along the famous NC500 near Ullapool, you’ll find the staggering Wailing Widow Falls tumbling from the glassy waters of Loch na Gainmhich.
And if one waterfall isn’t enough, just 7km away sits Eas a’ Chual Aluinn in the parish of Assynt. With a staggering drop of 200m - roughly four times the drop at Niagara Falls - it’s the tallest waterfall in the country.
But you're going to have to work for it by way of a 6-mile hike across boggy ground. On clear days, you can snag a spot on one of the local boat trips from the slipway by the Kylesku Hotel to Loch Beag, inviting you to see the falls with ease.
If you fancy the trek, though, you'll be rewarded with Assynt's unique rocky landscape, pretty streams, and remote wilderness beauty. You'll want some decent walking boots, as this walk is very boggy at the start, then rocky and rough for much of the remainder. But if that sounds off-putting, don't be! The isolation and challenging access mean it's a sight few people ever get to see, so doing so is hugely rewarding.
If you fancy exploring afterwards, Ardvreck Castle, the remains of a stone stronghold from 1490, is nearby. Overlooking Loch Assynt, it's an atmospheric spot to stretch out your legs post-hike.
Aira Force, Lake District
With its connections to Wordsworth, undeniable beauty, and easy breezy accessibility, Aira Force in the Lake District is one of the most popular waterfalls in Britain for good reason.
This famous 20 metre drop is tucked into an area said to have inspired Wordsworth’s The Somnambulist, the tragic tale of Lady Emma and Sir Eglamore. So if you're a lover of all things literary, it's sure to spark inspiration.
It takes around an hour to complete the popular circular waterfall trail, with rugged sections and steep terrain in places. There are plenty of different trails to follow, leading you past dappled woodland, serene pastures and dramatic falls. Take the hike up to Gowbarrow summit, from where you can soak up panoramic views over Ullswater. You might even get lucky and spot a rare red squirrel.
Don't fancy walking? You can arrive by boat using Ullswater 'Steamers', which call at Aira Force pier in Aira Green. The site is looked after by the National Trust, which also provides a car park along with a tea room serving hot drinks, snacks, and ice cream with indoor and outdoor seating to choose from depending on the weather.
Afterwards, head down to Ullswater, the second largest lake in the region after Windermere. With a mountain backdrop and 7 miles long, there's plenty to keep you busy here, both on and off the water.
Pistyll Rhaeadr, Powys
If you’re looking for a waterfall to make your jaw drop, you need to put Pistyll Rhaeadr in Wales on your itinerary. You’ll find these 80m tall falls just half an hour or so from the edge of Snowdonia National Park, inviting you to soak up some of the most dramatic sights in Wales with ease.
The stunning sight pours across three stages, flowing over the Silurian cliff-face and into the river Afon Rhaeadr that lies below. Thanks to its beauty and scale, it's often considered one of the Seven Wonders of Wales, along with the likes of Snowdon and St Giles' Church.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, then, it's been declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is a beloved attraction of locals and visitors alike. The 19th-century travel writer and author George Burrow even wrote about the fall in his book Wild Wales:
So, how to get there? You can drive to a car park at the base, then take a 20-minute hike to the top of the falls. You’ll want a decent pair of walking boots, and do take extra care in wet conditions.
Afterwards, head to Tan-y-Pistyll, rather aptly meaning the little house under the waterfall, for a spot of tea. Usually open in all but the most extreme of weather, you'll find 18th-century features, a roaring log fire, and excellent hot chocolates.
If you fancy a bit more exploring, the Berwyn Mountains offer plenty of thrilling routes. Look up The Berwyn Ridge walk for a 7-mile challenge. Or if you don’t mind a drive, take a trip out to Lake Vyrnwy - a dreamy 5-mile-long reservoir backed by mountains and forest. It’s popular with ground-nesting birds and livestock, too.
Speke's Mill Mouth, Devon
If you like your coastal walks challenging, this is an epic waterfall. One of the hardest sections of the South West Coast Path, Culm Coast is in North Devon, though only 20 minutes from Bude in Cornwall.
This coastline is famed for its legendary cliffs, shipwrecks, and this jaw-dropping waterfall. Fed by Speke’s Mill Water, this waterfall dramatically plunges over the cliff some 25m, down onto the beach below. At full flow, it's quite a sight!
In summertime, you'll wander past pretty wildflowers, colourful butterflies and birds of prey hunting from above. While in the area, take a look at St Catherine’s Tor, which is home to its own smaller waterfall. History buffs should check out the Iron Age fort on Embury Beacon, too, for a deeper look into the area’s history.
Afterwards, why not head a mile up the coast to The Wrecker's Retreat, a traditional pub with a welcoming atmosphere known for its sea views and epic Sunday roasts in Hartland Quay, a couple of miles from Hartland.
Janet’s Foss, Yorkshire Dales
Named after the Queen of the Fairies said to live in the cave behind the falls, Janet’s Foss is one of the most magical waterfalls in the country.
Here, lime-infused water has resulted in lashings of moss below the falls, adding to the mysterious charm of the spot. The turquoise waters of the plunge pool are a popular spot for wild swimmers too, so don’t forget to pack your swimming stuff if you’re partial to a dip.
Prefer life on land? The surrounding Yorkshire Dales woodland is ripe for exploring. Why not try out the 5-mile circular walk from the chocolate box village of Malham? As well as a spot of forest bathing and a view of the limestone cliffs at Malham Cove, the walk encompasses Gordale Scar, meaning you'll get two waterfalls for the price of one walk.
If you're feeling peckish, swing by Gordale Refreshments afterwards. Established in 1976, this snack van is a welcome stop for refuelling between Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet’s Foss. If you're after more of a sit-down reward for your hard work, head into Malham, where you'll find a couple of welcoming pubs.
Or for more choice, head 9 miles up the road to the bustling market town of Settle with its charming town centre and excellent selection of independent eateries, cosy cafés, and traditional markets.
If the thought of spending your days hiking through glades and wandering in woodlands in search of the country’s best waterfalls sounds good, it’s time to book a trip! Check our selection of cosy self-catering holiday cottages that would make the perfect bolthole for your next adventure away.
