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Hawes

Top 16 Waterfalls around Hawes

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.

Best waterfalls around Hawes

  • The most popular waterfalls is Hull Pot, a canyon that is a collapsed cavern measuring 91m long by 18m deep. It is particularly impressive after heavy rain.
  • Another must-see spot is Hawes village, waterfall and heritage railway, a historical site that is one of the highest market towns in England. It features a waterfall within the town and offers insights into the rural community.
  • Visitors also love Mill Gill Force, a fine waterfall in Wensleydale. It can be visited from Askrigg and combined with a stroll to Whitfield Gill Force.
  • Hawes is known for its single-drop waterfalls, stepped cascades, and secluded forces. These range from impressive single drops to multi-tiered cascades and hidden gems within woodlands.
  • The waterfalls around Hawes are appreciated by the komoot community. The community has contributed 150 upvotes and 149 photos, showcasing the appeal of these natural features.

Last updated: May 6, 2026

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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Low Force Waterfall (Force Gill)

Highlight • Natural Monument

If you are climbing Whernside, you will not regret following the path alongside Force Gill. Not only will you beat the crowds following the main route, but you also have the opportunity to view Low Force and High Force waterfalls up close. Low Force, despite its name, has a higher drop than High Force. Be sure to make a short detour from the path to view this magnificent spectacle.

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Cautley Spout Waterfall

Highlight • Viewpoint

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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Synonymous with Wensleydale cheese, Hawes is one of the highest market towns in England at 850 feet (259 m) above sea level. There are records of a market here right back to 1307 and on a Tuesday you can still expect a lively trade.

Being an important stop off on a couple of long-distance trails, there are plenty of places to rest your head at night. If you want to delve deeper into what makes this rural community tick, the Dales Countryside Museum is well worth a visit. The surrounding countryside is glorious, with great hiking on the windswept Pennine moors.

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Mill Gill Force

Highlight • River

A fine little waterfall, in fact one of the finest in Wensleydale. Mill Gill Force can be visited easily from picturesque Askrigg and combined with a stroll to Whitfield Gill Force just a little further up stream.

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Tips from the Community

Ann (Peregrinate North West & Beyond)
April 5, 2025, Hull Pot

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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Steep incline, not for the faint hearted!

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Jenny Bygrave
September 1, 2024, Mill Gill Force

a lovely walk in forest beside the river

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David Howells
June 2, 2024, Hull Pot

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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Fall was in full flow, very impressive

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most impressive waterfalls to visit around Hawes?

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.

Are there family-friendly waterfalls around Hawes?

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.

Which waterfalls are easily accessible for those with mobility challenges?

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.

What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls near Hawes?

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.

Can I go wild swimming near any of the waterfalls?

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.

Are there any historical or cultural sites associated with the waterfalls?

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.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?

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.

Are there less crowded waterfalls for a quieter experience?

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.

What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around 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.

Are there any waterfalls directly within the town of Hawes?

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.

Where can I find facilities like cafes or pubs near the waterfalls?

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.

Can I combine a waterfall visit with other walks?

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.

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

BainbridgeAskriggLow AbbotsideGrintonCarperby-Cum-ThoresbyMukerBishopdaleAysgarthThornton RustThoralbyMelbecksReeth, Fremington And HealaughHigh AbbotsideCastle Bolton With East And West BoltonWest WittonBurton-Cum-WaldenNewbigginCarlton TownCarlton HighdaleRedmireCaldbergh With East ScraftonWest ScraftonEllerton AbbeyMiddlehamLeyburnMelmerbyBellerbyCoverham With AgglethorpePreston-Under-ScarWensleyArkengarthdaleStaintonEast WittonMarrick

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