The best waterfall hikes and walks in The Stang Forest
4.7
(637)
3,874
hikers
8
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails in The Stang Forest traverse a landscape characterized by north-facing conifer forests and expansive open moorland. The region features a gently sloping ridge that forms a watershed, offering varied elevation changes suitable for different hiking abilities. Hikers can expect wooded paths and open views across County Durham and into North Yorkshire, including notable features such as Barningham Moor. The diverse terrain provides a range of routes from accessible paths to more challenging adventures.
Best waterfall hiking trails…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.3
(4)
7
hikers
11.2km
02:59
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
16.7km
04:33
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
27.1km
07:19
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
28.6km
08:25
760m
760m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
18.8km
05:19
410m
410m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
One of the largest and most open village greens in the Yorkshire Dales, historically used for markets, fairs, and livestock trading — the social heart of Swaledale long before tourism arrived. The green’s broad, triangular shape reflects its medieval origins as a common grazing and gathering space. Plenty of parking around the village green, but having arrived at 7am in winter for a hike and finding them all full, I suspect other times of the year will be even more difficult to secure a space.
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The stone bridge is a Grade II listed structure and one of the key historic crossings of the River Swale, linking Reeth with Grinton and the old Corpse Way route. Despite its modest size, it has survived multiple major Swaledale floods, making it one of the more quietly resilient pieces of infrastructure in the dale.
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Grinton St. Andrew's Church is known as “The Cathedral of the Dales” because for centuries it was the only parish church in Upper Swaledale, receiving the dead carried for miles along the old Corpse Way. Inside, it preserves rare historic features, including a chained Bible, a Jacobean pulpit, and a hagioscope (or “leper’s squint”) cut through the wall.
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A wonderful village on the Coast to Coast Path. There are plenty of places to stay around the village green. The village youth play football on the lawn, including the very young ones. Very nice!
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Those traveling north on the Pennine Way and wanting to spend the night (or stop by) in Bowes can switch here to the PW's alternative route (Bowes Loop). The two routes then rejoin shortly before the bridge over the River Balder.
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Nice little waterwall along the stream. You can either go straight down from the Bowes Castle (can be quite steep at times) or follow the Pennine path.
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Copper Kettle cafe. Excellent for food, sitting in or take away
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The Old Gang are the ruins of a lead smelting mill, it dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of the best preserved up in the north, and is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This trail runs right through it, passing by various building ruins, mine entrances, and the peat store.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest offers a diverse selection of 7 waterfall hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 3 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options to explore the region's natural beauty.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on these waterfall hikes?
While exploring the waterfall trails, you'll encounter a mix of north-facing conifer forests and expansive open moorland. Keep an eye out for Barningham Moor, which offers panoramic views, especially from elevated points like Eel Hill. You might also discover the remains of old limekilns along some routes, adding a historical touch to the natural scenery.
Are there any family-friendly waterfall walks in The Stang Forest?
Yes, The Stang Forest has options suitable for families. For an easier outing, consider the God's Bridge – Bowes Castle Ruins loop from Bowes. This moderate 9.8 km trail takes about 2 hours 34 minutes and combines natural rock formations with historical ruins, offering an engaging experience for various ages.
Can I bring my dog on the waterfall hiking trails in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest is generally welcoming to dogs, but it's important to remember that many routes traverse open moorland and farmland where livestock may be present. Always keep your dog under control, preferably on a lead, to protect wildlife and farm animals. Public access is permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the environment.
What is the best time of year to visit The Stang Forest for waterfall hikes?
The Stang Forest offers a pleasant hiking experience throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide vibrant colors and comfortable temperatures. During wetter periods, the waterfalls will be at their most impressive. The trails are generally well-surfaced, making them accessible even in damp conditions, though some routes involve gradual climbs.
Are there any circular waterfall walks available in The Stang Forest?
Many of the trails in The Stang Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the God's Bridge – Bowes Castle Ruins loop from Bowes is a moderate 16.7 km circular path that offers extended exploration of the area's diverse scenery, including open moorland and forest sections.
What is the difficulty level of the waterfall hikes in The Stang Forest?
The Stang Forest offers a range of difficulty levels for waterfall hikes. You'll find 1 easy route, 3 moderate options, and 3 more difficult trails. This variety ensures there's something for everyone, from casual strollers to experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the waterfall trails in The Stang Forest?
The waterfall trails in The Stang Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 560 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, which combine peaceful conifer woodlands with expansive moorland views, and the opportunity to discover historical landmarks like Bowes Castle Ruins.
Are there any longer, more challenging waterfall hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more demanding adventure, The Stang Forest offers several difficult routes. The Bowes Castle Ruins – Tan Hill Inn loop from Bowes is a challenging 27.1 km trail that leads through varied landscapes towards a historic inn, typically taking over 7 hours to complete.
Is parking available for waterfall hikes in The Stang Forest?
Yes, accessibility for hikers is enhanced by the availability of free parking. Several car parks are conveniently located along the roads that pass through The Stang Forest, making it easy to start your waterfall adventure.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the waterfall hiking trails?
The terrain in The Stang Forest is quite varied. You'll hike through north-facing conifer forests, enjoying the pine-scented air, and across expansive open moorland. The topography includes a gently sloping ridge, offering a mix of wooded paths and open views. While many paths are well-surfaced, some routes involve gradual climbs, so be prepared for diverse conditions.
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