Best waterfalls around Hawes are found in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, a region characterized by its dramatic fells and valleys. This area is home to numerous waterfalls, each with distinct features shaped by the local geology. The landscape provides diverse settings for these natural attractions, from secluded woodland forces to prominent cascades. Hawes serves as a central point for exploring these varied water features.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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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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Hull Pot is an amazing collapsed cavern that is now just an open limestone scar measuring 91 metres (300 feet) long by 18 metres (60 feet) deep. In dry weather, like today unfortunately, Hull Pot Beck goes underground before it gets to the rim, but in wet weather, it gives way overground to form a stunning waterfall. A stunning place to spend some time!
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Force Gill, or Low Force Waterfall is just off the main path going up to Whernside. A little side trail takes you right into the tiny, gorgeous amphitheatre that hosts this beautiful 15-meter/50-foot waterfall. It is also not that far from Ribblehead Viaduct, so it is a really great family-friendly walk to get to it. It is a beautiful setting and makes for a great rest stop.
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it's very easy walk and the waterfall is beautiful you can take your kids here easily and right now in summer surrounding the waterfall its greenery and small white flowers make it a destination location here can create some reels for your insta and YouTube.
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An awe-inspiring place. The walk in across the bottom of the dale is easy with constant views and the rumbling of the looming waterfall. Climbing the path alongside the cascade is recommended, although it becomes very steep on the rough stone steps. From here, you can continue to the top of The Calf, the highest point in the area.
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The area around Hawes boasts several impressive waterfalls. Hull Pot is a unique collapsed cavern, particularly striking after heavy rain. Hardraw Force is England's highest single-drop waterfall, plunging 30 meters into a natural amphitheater. Aysgarth Falls offers a triple flight of stepped cascades, while Cautley Spout Waterfall is reported to have the highest drop in England at 180m.
Yes, several waterfalls are suitable for families. Low Force Waterfall (Force Gill) is easily accessible and makes for a great rest stop. Cotter Force is noted for its accessibility, with a path suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Aysgill Force also features a family-friendly circular walk from Hawes.
Cotter Force is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales, requiring only a 5-minute walk along a path suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users. Hardraw Force also offers a generally accessible path to the waterfall itself.
The waterfalls are particularly dramatic after heavy rainfall, which can occur throughout the year, making them especially powerful. Spring and summer offer wildflowers and opportunities to spot wildlife, while autumn provides vibrant colors and the chance to see salmon leaping at places like Aysgarth Falls. Winter visits can be beautiful but require checking conditions for ice and snow.
Yes, some waterfalls offer opportunities for wild swimming. Hardraw Force has a deep pool at its base, though visitors should be mindful of cold water and slippery rocks. Cauldron Falls (West Burton Falls) also has a deep plunge pool suitable for swimming in parts during warmer months.
Absolutely. Hardraw Force is accessed through the historic Green Dragon Inn, dating back to the 13th century. Aysgarth Falls has attracted notable figures like John Ruskin and William Wordsworth and was featured in films. Hawes itself, with its waterfall, is a historic market town, one of the highest in England, with records of a market dating back to 1307.
The area around Hawes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Haylands Bridge and Mire Bank Lane loop from Hawes' or the more challenging 'Hardraw Force Waterfall and Cotterdale loop'. There are also gravel biking routes, such as the 'Cam High Road – Gaudy Lane Trail loop', and running trails like the 'Haylands Bridge – Hawes to Sedbusk Footpath loop'. For more details, explore the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and running guide for Hawes.
Aysgill Force is considered a relatively little-known waterfall, offering a more secluded and quieter experience compared to more famous sites like Aysgarth Falls. It's part of a beautiful circular walk from Hawes.
Visitors frequently praise the impressive scale and power of the waterfalls, especially after rain. The beautiful natural surroundings, opportunities for scenic walks, and the chance to discover hidden gems are also highly valued. Many appreciate the family-friendly aspects and the unique character of each waterfall, from single drops to multi-tiered cascades.
Yes, a small waterfall formed by Gayle Beck flows directly through the town of Hawes. It offers a unique experience of a waterfall within a bustling market town, perfect for enjoying as part of a stroll through Hawes.
Many waterfalls are conveniently located near amenities. Hardraw Force is accessed through the Green Dragon Inn. Aysgarth Falls has a National Park Centre with a café. The village of West Burton, home to Cauldron Falls, offers a lovely country pub. Hawes itself, being a market town, has numerous cafes and pubs.
Absolutely. Many waterfalls are part of longer walking routes. For example, Mill Gill Force can be combined with a stroll to Whitfield Gill Force. Aysgill Force is part of a scenic circular walk from Hawes. The area's extensive network of trails allows for combining multiple natural attractions.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Hawes: