Top 5 Waterfalls around Colton
Waterfalls around Colton offer diverse natural experiences, from fast-flowing streams to quarry cascades. The area features several waterfalls, often found within forested landscapes or near lakes. These locations provide opportunities for exploring natural monuments and trails. Some spots also include historical quarry sites with unique water features.
Best waterfalls around Colton
- The most popular waterfalls is Tom Ghyll Waterfalls, a waterfall that features a fast-flowing stream with two waterfalls. A path runs along it up to Tarn Hows.
- Another…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Tom Ghyll Waterfalls
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Banishead Quarry Waterfall
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Quarry Waterfall Descent, Lake District
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Small Double Waterfall
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River Duddon
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Popular around Colton
Tips from the Community
Tom Ghyll (or Gill) is a fast flowing stream with two spectacular waterfalls. There is a path along it up to Tarn Hows. Or if you leave Tarn Hows down to Glen Mary car park.
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Banishead Quarry is a rarely publicised beauty spot in the Lake District that is hidden away on the eastern flanks of the Old Man of Coniston. It is a super beautiful location and even has its own waterfall and an 80 foot (24 m) at that. It is a very popular wild swimming spot in the summer months. The waterfall was apparently born out of mischief when three local boys had a flash of inspiration to play ‘Let's divert the river with rocks’ back in the 1950’s. Their efforts obviously worked! If you do stop here, be aware of the dangers of wild swimming and jumping from high ledges at an unknown location.
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Bannishead Quarry and tarn is a real hidden gem. You don’t see it until you are right next to it and most of the tourists heading up Coniston Old Man don’t come this way so you are likely to have it to yourself. A beautiful quarry lake made more spectacular by the waterfall.
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The highlight right next to it (swimming hole) is on private property. You can pass here directly on the public footpath along the stream, which splits just above, where the two streams come together again in small waterfalls.
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If you have mobility issues or just fancy something a little less strenuous Tarn Hows is a lovely walk. Sadly the woodland has been damaged by the storms with a lot of trees being uprooted. Don’t for forget to visit Tom Gill Falls but the path is uneven here so not suitable for prams/wheelchairs are those who are unsteady of their feet
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Do not go to the top of tarn how as route up and down none existing very hard to figure out how to get up and dam hard to get down .
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular waterfall trails around Colton?
Among the most popular is Tom Ghyll Waterfalls, known for its fast-flowing stream and two spectacular cascades. Another favorite is Banishead Quarry Waterfall, a unique man-made feature with an 80-foot drop.
Are there any family-friendly waterfalls near Colton?
Yes, the River Duddon offers a wonderful section with many paddling spots, woodlands, and mini waterfalls, making it a great place for families to explore.
Where can I find a waterfall with wild swimming opportunities?
Banishead Quarry Waterfall is a very popular spot for wild swimming during the summer months, featuring a beautiful quarry lake and an 80-foot waterfall.
Are there any hidden gem waterfalls worth exploring near Colton?
Banishead Quarry Waterfall is often described as a rarely publicised beauty spot and a hidden gem. Many tourists heading up Coniston Old Man don't come this way, so you might have it to yourself.
What kind of views can I expect from waterfalls around Colton?
Many waterfalls offer scenic views. For instance, the Quarry Waterfall Descent, Lake District provides great views of Coniston Water during its technical descent. Tom Ghyll Waterfalls also offers picturesque forest and lake views as you follow the path up to Tarn Hows.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a waterfall visit near Colton?
The area around Colton's waterfalls is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find mountain biking trails, cycling routes, and mountain hikes. For more details, explore the MTB Trails around Colton, Cycling around Colton, and Mountain Hikes around Colton guides.
Are there challenging waterfall trails in the Colton area?
Yes, the Quarry Waterfall Descent, Lake District offers a challenging and technical descent through a disused quarry, suitable for those looking for a more adventurous experience.
What should I wear or bring for a waterfall walk around Colton?
Sturdy footwear is strongly recommended for many waterfall walks, especially on trails like Tom Ghyll Waterfalls, where paths can be uneven. If you plan to wild swim, bring appropriate gear and be aware of the dangers.
Can I find waterfalls that are part of a longer hike?
Absolutely. The path along Tom Ghyll Waterfalls leads up to Tarn Hows, allowing you to extend your visit into a longer walk. Additionally, many mountain hikes in the area incorporate waterfall views, such as the 'Coniston Waterfall – Old Man of Coniston summit loop' found in the Mountain Hikes around Colton guide.
What makes the waterfalls around Colton unique?
The Colton area is known for a diverse range of water features, including natural waterfalls, unique quarry waterfalls like Banishead Quarry Waterfall, and river cascades. This variety offers different experiences, from gentle streams to more challenging descents within disused quarries.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Colton's waterfalls?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural experiences, from the fast-flowing streams of Tom Ghyll Waterfalls to the unique wild swimming opportunities at Banishead Quarry Waterfall. The combination of natural beauty, varied trails, and the chance to explore both natural and man-made water features is highly valued.
Are there any waterfalls with interesting historical backgrounds?
Yes, Banishead Quarry Waterfall has a fascinating origin story. It was reportedly created in the 1950s when three local boys diverted a river with rocks, leading to the impressive 80-foot cascade seen today.
What are some options for cycling near the waterfalls?
There are several cycling routes around Colton that can be combined with waterfall visits. You can find options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Hawkshead Village – Hill Top Farm loop' or the 'Ulverston and Hoad Monument loop'. More details are available in the Cycling around Colton guide.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Colton:
