The best waterfall hikes and walks around Levers Water
4.6
(6178)
56,237
hikers
147
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around Levers Water are set within the rugged landscape of the Lake District, characterized by fells, tarns, and valleys carved by glacial activity. The area features numerous streams and cascades, creating opportunities for exploring diverse waterfall environments. Terrain varies from gentle paths alongside water bodies to more challenging ascents towards mountain summits. This region offers a mix of open moorland, rocky outcrops, and lush green valleys.
Best waterfall hiking trails around Levers Water
- The most popular waterfall…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
3.7
(3)
66
hikers
4.12km
01:14
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(313)
1,318
hikers
10.5km
04:23
730m
730m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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3.8
(4)
57
hikers
11.3km
04:12
730m
730m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(13)
137
hikers
8.30km
02:49
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
32
hikers
21.0km
07:58
1,310m
1,310m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Around 1590, the Company of Mines Royal began extracting copper from the Coniston copper veins. The first work was carried out entirely by hand. With brute force, the rock face was broken and tunnels were excavated very slowly. Only enough rock was removed to allow one person to pass through the tunnel, and these access tunnels are called 'coffin levels' because of their characteristic coffin shape. Excavating a 17th-century tunnel like Cobbler's Level could still take three years. The Elizabethan Company of Mines Royal was led by German experts from the Tyrol and Bavaria. Their mines penetrated more than 55 metres into the earth. Work continued after the English Civil War, but perhaps not to a great extent. At the end of the 17th century, gunpowder was introduced, which changed everything. Work went much faster and mines could go much deeper than before, up to more than 90 metres below the surface. The charges were placed in a hole drilled into the rock using 'jumpers', iron rods made on site. You can still see hand-drilled shot holes. Gunpowder was replaced by dynamite in 1877 and jumpers by compressed air drills in 1883. (Lake district national park)
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The Coniston Coppermines Waterwheel is a restored, fully functioning waterwheel in Coppermines Valley. Against the impressive backdrop of The Old Man of Coniston, it forms a central element of the area's 500-year-old copper mining history.
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Levers Water is a small lake. It lies at the start of Coppermines Valley, above the village of Coniston. To the southwest of it lies Raven Tor, an outlier of Brim Fell, and to the northwest lie Little How Crags and Great How Crags, on the east side of the north-south ridge leading to Swirl How. A dam, built in 1717, enlarged the existing tarn to supply water to the mines and the village below. (Wikipedia)
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During the descent, you get a good view of Levers Water, a beautiful mountain lake.
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Brim Fell connects Coniston Old Man with Swirl How, the two main fells of the Coniston group. Its disadvantage is that it is very close to the Old Man, only a short walk away.
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To describe this mountain, here is a quote: "Although cruelly scarred and disfigured by the quarries, the Old Man has retained a dignified bearing and still lifts his proud and venerable head to the sky. His tears flow quietly into Low Water and Goats Water, two beautiful mountain tarns, whence they eventually... find their way to Coniston Water, bathing his ancient feet." Alfred Wainwright, "A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, Book Four: The Southern Fells"
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The most spectacular angles for photographing Low Water are from above: it can be seen from the ridge between Brim Fell Rake and the Old Man, but also from the steep, rugged path between the Old Man and the village of Coniston. The shores of the Tarn can also be reached via this latter path. (Lakes, Meres, Tarns & Waters)
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The ruins of Saddlestone Mill are fascinating, derelict remnants of the old "Coniston slate and copper mines" on the northeastern flank of the Old Man of Coniston. The site is located approximately 2 km west of the village of Coniston and includes huge steel cables, old railway tracks, winding gear, buildings, and abandoned quarry tunnels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are there around Levers Water?
The Levers Water area offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 150 trails in total. Among these, you'll find numerous routes specifically featuring waterfalls, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging mountain ascents.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy waterfall hikes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Coniston Village – Coniston Waterfall loop from Coniston, which is a gentle 2.6-mile (4.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to complete and leads directly to a beautiful waterfall near the village.
What are the typical durations for waterfall hikes around Levers Water?
Hikes around Levers Water vary significantly in duration. Shorter, easier trails like the Coniston Village – Coniston Waterfall loop can be completed in just over an hour. More moderate routes, such as the Crowberry Haws – Levers Water loop from Coniston, typically take around 2 hours 50 minutes, while longer, more challenging loops can extend to 4-5 hours or more.
Where can I find parking for waterfall walks in the Levers Water area?
Parking for waterfall walks in the Levers Water area is generally available in and around the village of Coniston. There are several public car parks, though they can fill up quickly during peak season. Some trailheads may also have limited roadside parking. Always check local signage for restrictions and fees.
Can I bring my dog on waterfall hikes near Levers Water?
Most waterfall hikes around Levers Water are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially in areas with livestock, near steep drops, or when passing through nature conservation zones. Always follow the Countryside Code and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Levers Water?
The waterfalls around Levers Water are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn often provide the most dramatic views due to increased rainfall, making the cascades particularly powerful. Summer offers pleasant hiking weather, while winter can transform the landscape into a serene, icy wonderland, though trails may be more challenging due to snow and ice.
Are there any circular waterfall walks in the region?
Yes, many of the waterfall trails around Levers Water are designed as circular routes, allowing you to experience varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Crowberry Haws – Coniston Waterfall loop from Coniston is a moderate 3.5-mile (5.6 km) circular trail that includes waterfall views.
What should I wear for a waterfall hike in Levers Water?
Given the varied terrain and unpredictable Lake District weather, it's best to wear waterproof and windproof layers, sturdy hiking boots with good grip, and comfortable clothing. Even on sunny days, conditions can change rapidly, and paths near waterfalls can be wet and slippery. Bringing extra layers and a hat is always a good idea.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the waterfall hiking trails?
The village of Coniston, which serves as a common starting point for many waterfall hikes, offers a selection of cafes, pubs, and shops where you can find refreshments and meals before or after your walk. You'll find options ranging from quick snacks to full meals.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Levers Water?
The Levers Water area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 5500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the diverse terrain encompassing fells, tarns, and cascades, and the sense of tranquility found on the trails. The well-maintained paths and clear signage are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any hidden gem waterfall walks in the area that are less crowded?
While many trails are popular, exploring some of the slightly longer or more challenging routes can lead to quieter experiences. For instance, the View of Levers Water – Swirl How loop from Coniston, a moderate 7-mile (11.3 km) hike, offers breathtaking views and passes by various water features, often providing a more secluded feel than the most frequented spots.
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