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Yorkshire And The Humber

Top 20 Waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber

Waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber are a prominent feature of the region's diverse landscape, particularly within the Yorkshire Dales. The area is characterized by its limestone geology, which has shaped numerous natural formations including impressive cliffs and deep ravines. These natural wonders are often found within national parks and nature reserves, offering varied terrain for exploration. The region's waterways contribute to a collection of waterfalls that range from large, dramatic drops to smaller, serene cascades.

Best waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber

  • The most popular waterfalls is Malham Cove, a natural monument that is a massive, curved limestone cliff formation. It was formed by a colossal waterfall carrying glacial meltwater over 12,000 years ago, and sometimes flows again after exceptional rainfall.
  • Another must-see spot is Janet's Foss, a forest waterfall nestled among trees. Visitors can splash around in its plunge pool, making it a popular spot for families.
  • Visitors also love Aysgarth Lower Falls, a natural monument with crashing white waters. This is one of a triple flight of stepped waterfalls on the River Ure, known for inspiring artists and being a filming location.
  • Yorkshire And The Humber is known for dramatic drops, stepped falls, and serene cascades. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from towering single-drop falls to picturesque woodland cascades.
  • The waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 700 upvotes and over 590 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Malham Cove

Highlight • Natural Monument

The 230 feet (70 m) high, gently curving cliff of Malham Cove will take your breath away. A spectacular geological formation in its own right, the views from above the white limestone cliffs are utterly breathtaking.

Over the last 1.5 million years, Malham was covered with huge sheets of glacial ice at least three times. As these glaciers ground over the landscape, they sculpted many awe-inspiring spectacles, including Malham Cove.

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Janet's Foss

Highlight • Forest

Janet's Foss is a beautiful waterfall nestled among trees on the footpath from Malham Village to Gordale Scar. You can splash around in the waterfall and its plunge pool, making it a popular spot, especially at peak times (weekends, warm weather, bank holidays etc).

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Gordale Scar Waterfall

Highlight • Natural Monument

Gordale Scar is one of the most dramatic sights in the Yorkshire Dales. The narrow canyon is dominated on either side by sheer walls of rock, hundreds of feet high, with Gordale Beck tumbling through the rocky ravine. The scramble is challenging and quite technical in places, so take care and watch your step.

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Linton Falls

Highlight • Natural Monument

After heavy rain or snow make sure you check with local agencies as to whether bridges and/or stepping stones are passable.

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This waterfall is a must-see for any fans of the Brontë sisters. A few miles from Haworth, where they grew up, the waterfall was a place the sisters visited to talk of their literary fantasies, which eventually became their own works of classic literature. The scenery is truly spectacular around this area with wonderful views over the Worth Valley.

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Aysgarth Lower Falls

Highlight • Natural Monument

It’s not too often that you can place yourself in an English Romantic painting. But when you stand here, admiring the crashing white waters of Aysgarth Lower Falls, you’re right in the heart of a 19th-century masterpiece.

When Romantic painter William Turner visited Aysgarth on July 28, 1816, to make illustrations for 'A General History of the County of York' by Thomas Dunham Whitaker, his main focus was the famous Aysgarth Falls. He sketched each of the falls from many angles, but it was the classic view and best-known fall, Lower Falls, that he chose to develop into a finished watercolour.

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Mallyan Spout Waterfall

Highlight • Natural Monument

With a vertical drop of 70 feet (21 m), Mallyan Spout is the tallest waterfall in the North York Moors. When you arrive at the waterfall, prepare to have your breath taken – the epic site has captivated visitors since Victorian times. The path to the waterfall can be technical in places, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

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Wyming Brook Nature Reserve

Highlight • Viewpoint

This pretty brook tumbles down through the Fox Holes Plantation on its way from the Redmires Reservoirs to the reservoir created by the Rivelin Dams. It's at its best after heavy rain when it roars.

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Hull Pot

Highlight • Canyon

Hull Pot, on the western side of Pen-y-Ghent, is a collapsed cavern, and an impressive hole measuring 91m (300ft) long by 18m (60ft) deep.

In the late 18th century, in a guidebook published, it was called 'a Hulpit', and the author stated that it "would have appeared like the inside of an enormous old Gothic castle, the high ruinous walls of which were left standing after the roof was fallen in".

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Thornton Force waterfall

Highlight • Natural Monument

Dropping 46 feet (14 m) over a limestone cliff, Thornton Force will take your breath away when it comes into view. Interestingly, there are several layers to the rock behind the falls and it's possible to measure over 170 million years of geological evolution within the span of one hand.

However, if you are at Thornton Force when the weather is fine, you might be more interested in embracing the water for a refreshing dip and basking in the rocky amphitheatre where it's located. During peak times it can get busy here, so choose your moment to visit.

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Tips from the Community

Chris Shannon
February 23, 2026, Brontë Bridge and Brontë Waterfall

Stunning waterfall and nice small bridge, and to think you are stepping where the Brontë sisters once did is a great place to reflect

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Access: 🚗 c. 2miles from the village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale 🥾 Alternatively, enjoy a 9 miles hike with just 2,000ft of total elevation from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, via Pen-y-Ghent

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A little slippy in places, especially in winter when black ice covers much of the path, but very beautiful

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Great for adventures with kids

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Andy
August 31, 2024, Malham Cove

Limestone pavement above Mallam.incredable

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Whilst this waterfall is relatively accessible, as others point out it is a bit of a scramble, with the rocks still quite slippery and treacherous in the height of summer, as they are permanently in the shade and damp. In summer, the valley that the track to the waterfall runs through provides welcome respite from the heat of the day.

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Not accessible if your not willing to do a Little Rock climbing!

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a joyous short walk from Grassington. When in full flow, the noise/sound of the flowing water is very serene. You can sit and just listen and enjoy the flow of the water and watch it move. A definite if you are in the area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there accessible waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber?

Yes, several waterfalls in the region offer good accessibility.

Cotter Force is particularly praised for its accessibility, suitable for wheelchairs and prams. The paths around Aysgarth Lower Falls are also generally easy and accessible, especially within the Freeholders' Wood Local Nature Reserve. The walk to Hardraw Force is short and family-friendly, though it is located within private grounds with an admission cost.

Which waterfalls showcase unique geological formations?

Yorkshire And The Humber is rich in geological wonders. Malham Cove is a massive, curved limestone cliff formation, and above it lies a remarkable, deeply eroded limestone pavement. Gordale Scar is an impressive limestone ravine with two waterfalls, featuring sheer rock walls hundreds of feet high. Hull Pot is a collapsed cavern, an impressive hole measuring 91 meters long by 18 meters deep, particularly striking after heavy rain.

Can I go wild swimming at any waterfalls in the region?

Yes, wild swimming is possible at some locations, though caution is always advised due to strong currents after rainfall and slippery rocks. You can swim in the deep pool at Hardraw Force. Janet's Foss is a popular spot for splashing around in its plunge pool. Goit Stock Waterfall is also a known spot for wild swimming.

What are some family-friendly waterfall walks in Yorkshire And The Humber?

Many waterfalls in the region are suitable for families. The walk to all three falls at Aysgarth Lower Falls is relatively short and easy. The path to Hardraw Force is also short and family-friendly. Janet's Foss is a picturesque forest waterfall with a plunge pool popular with families. Wyming Brook Nature Reserve also offers family-friendly trails with waterfalls.

When is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber?

The waterfalls are beautiful year-round, but they are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall, when the water flow is at its strongest. Spring and autumn offer vibrant foliage, while summer provides pleasant walking conditions. Winter can be magical with ice formations, but paths may be slippery.

Which waterfalls are best for photography?

For photographers, the region offers stunning backdrops. Scaleber Force is highly popular due to its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere, with crystal-clear waters cascading over limestone. Malham Cove offers breathtaking views of the Dales and its unique limestone pavement. Aysgarth Lower Falls, with its crashing white waters, has inspired artists for centuries and provides classic photographic opportunities.

Are there any challenging waterfall walks for experienced hikers?

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Gordale Scar offers a dramatic and technical scramble up its waterfall. The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a 4.3-mile circular route featuring several impressive cascades like Thornton Force and Beezley Falls, which can be moderately challenging. The Malham Cove and Gordale Scar loop is also considered a difficult hike.

What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls?

The region around the waterfalls offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including the challenging Three Peaks Challenge. For more strenuous adventures, explore mountain hikes like the Janet's Foss Waterfall – Gordale Scar Waterfall loop. Of course, there are many dedicated waterfall hikes to explore.

Which waterfalls have been featured in films or TV shows?

Several waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber have graced the silver screen. Aysgarth Lower Falls and Hardraw Force were both filming locations for *Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves*. Malham Cove and Gordale Scar famously appeared in *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*.

Are there facilities like parking and cafes near the waterfalls?

Yes, many popular waterfall sites offer visitor facilities. Near Aysgarth Lower Falls, you'll find a National Park Centre, café, and car park. Hardraw Force is located within the private grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn, which offers amenities, and there's a car park nearby. For other locations, it's advisable to check local information for specific parking and refreshment options.

Are there dog-friendly waterfall trails in Yorkshire And The Humber?

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, especially within national parks and nature reserves. Wyming Brook Nature Reserve is specifically listed as dog-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept on leads where required, especially near livestock or protected wildlife, and check local signage for any restrictions.

Are there trails that allow me to see multiple waterfalls?

Absolutely. The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a renowned circular route that takes you past several impressive cascades, including Thornton Force and Beezley Falls. The walk around Aysgarth Lower Falls allows you to visit the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls. Additionally, the Malham Cove and Gordale Scar loop will take you past both of these dramatic features.

Which waterfalls are considered hidden gems or offer a more tranquil experience?

For a more peaceful visit, Goit Stock Waterfall, nestled within the serene Goit Stock Woods near Cullingworth, offers a charming cascade and a tranquil ambiance. Scaleber Force, located within Scaleber Wood Nature Reserve near Settle, is another picturesque spot known for its peaceful setting, though it can be popular with photographers.

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Looking for more great places nearby? See even more amazing waterfalls in Yorkshire And The Humber with these guides per region:

OtterburnRathmellThornton In LonsdaleCravenBradfordSkiptonHalton EastBolton AbbeyIngletonMalham MoorBank NewtonBurton In LonsdaleKirkby MalhamGrassingtonLong PrestonLangcliffeRylstoneAustwickStainforthConiston ColdBradleys BothBenthamHartlingtonHebdenBeamsleyArncliffeHalton GillHorton In RibblesdaleKettlewell With StarbottonThreshfieldStirton With ThorlbyGiggleswickWigglesworthGisburn ForestAirtonHazlewood With StorithsHawkswickGargraveBuckdenClapham Cum NewbyBardenLintonHetton-Cum-BordleyDraughtonNorth YorkshireCaltonConistone With KilnseyLittonSettleMalhamHellifieldSuttonHanlithThorpeFlasby With WinterburnBurnsallAppletreewickEshtonLawklandCracoeScosthropEmbsay With Eastby

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