Yorkshire Dales Waterfalls Road Trip + Map 🚗
There’s something magical about waterfalls. The sound, the spray, the way they appear out of nowhere after a woodland bend or burst dramatically through a limestone gorge. And the Yorkshire Dales? They’re absolutely spoiled for choice.
This road trip takes you on an 85-mile journey across the Dales, hopping from one incredible cascade to the next. Think ancient ravines, fairy-tale woods, rivers full of salmon, and even England’s tallest single-drop fall. We’re running it in reverse from the original order, starting with the lesser-known wild heights of Cautley Spout and ending with the drama of Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. Perfect for a weekend adventure, or a “why not?” road trip when the weather’s doing its moody Yorkshire thing 🌧️.
Yorkshire Dales Waterfalls Road Trip 🚗
🚗 Quick Trip Facts
- Trip length: 2–3 days (a packed 1 day if you’re speedy)
- Start point: Cautley Spout (Howgill Fells)
- End point: Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
- Total distance: ~85 miles 🚗
- Best for: Waterfall walks, wild scenery, pub stops, hidden villages
- Best season: Spring for salmon leaps, autumn for fiery colours, winter for moody drama 🌧️
- Getting around: Car is best – many falls are remote, though some link via short hikes
🗺️ Itinerary
Stop 1: Cautley Spout ⛰️💧
Tucked in the Howgill Fells, this is England’s highest above-ground waterfall. The cascade tumbles down over 600 feet in stages, so it’s more of a dramatic mountain backdrop than a single curtain of water. The hike up is steep in parts, but the payoff? Sweeping views that make you feel like you’ve stepped into Middle-earth.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Wear sturdy boots – the rocks here are often slippery even in summer.
Stop 2: Cotter Force 🦋🚶
Just outside Hawes, this is a gentle multi-tiered fall hidden in a wooded glade. What makes Cotter Force special is its accessibility, the path from the road is flat and well-maintained, meaning everyone can enjoy it. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dippers or kingfishers darting along the river.
👉 Good to know: It’s only about a 10-minute stroll from the road, so it’s a quick but memorable stop.
Stop 3: Hardraw Force 🏞️🍺
Now for a proper showstopper: the tallest single-drop waterfall in England at around 100 feet. You actually access it through the Green Dragon Inn (yes, really). Pay a small entry fee, grab a pint if you fancy, and walk through to this thundering curtain of water. It’s a bit surreal, pub garden one minute, roaring natural wonder the next.
💡 Fact: Hardraw Force starred in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves with Kevin Costner.
Stop 4: Aysgarth Falls 🎯
This is a classic Dales beauty spot, made up of three stepped waterfalls on the River Ure. They’re spread out along a short riverside walk, so you can spend as little or as long here as you like. In autumn, the copper beech trees surrounding the falls look particularly dreamy.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: After rain, the water here is seriously powerful – and noisy.
Stop 5: Cauldron Falls (West Burton) 🍃🌼
Hidden right in the middle of the village of West Burton, Cauldron Falls is small but ridiculously photogenic. The pool below the cascade is perfect for a paddle on a warm day, and it feels like one of those secret spots locals keep in their back pocket.
👉 Good to know: J.M.W. Turner sketched this fall, so you’re in the company of artists.
Stop 6: Linton Falls 🌁💦
A powerful waterfall on the River Wharfe, best viewed from the little footbridge just upstream. The sheer force of the water rushing under your feet is exhilarating. The surrounding meadows and old mill make it a perfect “pause for a photo” stop.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Combine this with a wander into Grassington village, cobbles, cafés, and plenty of character.
Recommended Tours and Tickets From Get Your Guide
Stop 7: Gordale Scar 🏞️⚠️
This one’s dramatic with a capital D. A huge limestone ravine with vertical cliffs and a twin waterfall crashing through the gap. It looks almost prehistoric. You can scramble up the falls if you’re feeling brave (and don’t mind getting soaked), but even just standing below and staring up is worth the stop.
👉 Good to know: The nearby car park also puts you within walking distance of Janet’s Foss.
Stop 8: Janet’s Foss 🧚♀️🌊
Straight out of a storybook, this little waterfall sits in a wooded glen near Malham. Local legend says it was once home to Janet, queen of the fairies, who bathed in the pool. The mossy rocks, dappled light, and crystal water make it feel like you’ve wandered into folklore.
💡 Fact: In summer, this is a favourite wild-swimming spot.
Stop 9: Scaleber Force 🌳📸
One of the most photogenic waterfalls in the Dales, Scaleber Force is a tall, elegant cascade down limestone steps into a leafy glen. The woodland path down is a little steep but short. Bring your camera – it’s a dream for long-exposure shots.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Arrive early in the morning for golden light streaming through the trees.
Stop 10: Catrigg Force 🌲🪨
Hidden in a quiet wooded ravine above Stainforth, Catrigg Force feels like a secret. It’s a narrow, graceful fall that drops into a shady gorge. The walk to it is a pleasant wander through farmland with big views of Pen-y-ghent on the way.
👉 Good to know: Composer Edward Elgar loved this spot and found inspiration here.
Stop 11: Stainforth Force 🐟💧
Just downstream from Catrigg, this wide, rocky waterfall is famous for salmon leaping in autumn. Watching these fish fling themselves upstream is oddly addictive. Even without the salmon, it’s a peaceful place to sit by the water.
💡 Fact: There’s a historic packhorse bridge right nearby – perfect photo combo.
Stop 12: Ingleton Waterfalls Trail 🥾🌿
Finish with a bang. This 4.5-mile circular trail packs in multiple waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and lush woodland. Thornton Force steals the show, tumbling 14 metres over a limestone cliff. It’s the most “all in one” waterfall walk in the Dales and the best way to round off your road trip.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Allow 2–3 hours for the trail. It’s a bit of a workout but worth every step.
📍 We also have other Road Trips:
Access to the map
No sign up required and totally FREE. Literally just using Google Maps to plot your route! Saves you messing! We don't gatekeep here! Enjoy.
Map will be located under "YOU" and then under "MAPS".
ℹ️ Add the map to your Google Maps app.
After opening Google maps, click YOU and then scroll down to MAPS. It should be located there. Any issues, just get it touch, it’s no problem!
🛑 Pit Stops & Side Detours
- Malham Cove – Just down the road from Janet’s Foss, this huge limestone amphitheatre is a bucket-list stop. Climb the 400 steps for views that stretch forever.
- Ribblehead Viaduct – Iconic railway arches rising out of the moors. Pull over for photos, especially at sunset.
- Bolton Abbey – Ruined priory by the River Wharfe, with stepping stones and riverside walks.
- Wensleydale Creamery, Hawes – Home of the famous cheese. Free samples, need we say more? 🧀
- Settle–Carlisle Railway – If you fancy swapping driving for scenery, hop on the train for one of Britain’s most scenic rides.
🍽️ Local Eats Worth Chasing
- The Green Dragon Inn (Hardraw) – Classic Yorkshire pub, also the gateway to Hardraw Force. Cosy fire + local ale = winner. 🍺
- The White Lion Inn (Cray) – Traditional Dales inn, hearty pies and mash to refuel after Aysgarth Falls.
- The Lister Arms (Malham) – Perfect post-hike pint and Sunday roast, right by Janet’s Foss and Gordale Scar.
- The Pancake House (Ingleton) – Sweet or savoury stacks, just the thing after tackling the waterfalls trail. 🥞
- Wensleydale Creamery (Hawes) – Try the Yorkshire Wensleydale with cranberries or ginger. Unexpectedly delicious.
🎶 Road Trip Playlist
- “Waterfall” – The Stone Roses (had to, it’s northern royalty)
- “Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac (classic road trip vibes)
- “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles (for when Yorkshire weather finally clears)
- “Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen (blast it as you roll through the moors)
- “Send Me On My Way” – Rusted Root (ultimate feel-good wanderer track)
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Download offline – signal can drop out in the valleys.
🎙️ Podcasts to Queue Up
- The Rest is History – Dive into quirky tales from Britain’s past, perfect for castle + abbey stops.
- Off Menu with James Acaster & Ed Gamble – Hilarious foodie chats while you’re hunting down pub grub.
- Countrystride – A love letter to northern landscapes, with stories from fell walkers and locals.
- You’re Dead To Me – Funny, fast-paced history lessons (great for filling in long drives between stops).
🎒 Road Trip Essentials
- Waterproof jacket (Yorkshire weather changes in a heartbeat)
- Sturdy walking boots or trail shoes
- A flask of tea or coffee (bonus: Yorkshire Tea, to stay on brand ☕)
- Camera or phone tripod for long-exposure waterfall shots
- Small picnic blanket – loads of grassy spots perfect for lunch by the river
- Binoculars for bird and salmon spotting 🐦🐟
Access to the map
No sign up required and totally FREE. Literally just using Google Maps to plot your route! Saves you messing! We don't gatekeep here! Enjoy.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
FAQs
How long does the Yorkshire Dales waterfalls road trip take?
A weekend (2–3 days) is perfect, giving you time to enjoy the walks without rushing. You could cram it into a single day, but you’d miss the magic.
Do I need hiking gear for this trip?
Sturdy walking shoes are a must. Some falls, like Ingleton and Gordale Scar, involve uneven ground and muddy paths. Waterproofs help too – it’s Yorkshire, after all 🌧️.
How do I get the FREE map?
The free map is available via Google Maps with no signup required. After clicking the “View Map” link, go to “Your Places” > “Maps” in the Google Maps app to find the route. Save it for offline use, especially in areas with spotty signal.
Can you swim in any of the waterfalls?
Yes, but be cautious. Janet’s Foss is a popular wild-swimming spot, though the water is icy cold. Always check currents and conditions first.
Is the CotswoldWhat’s the best time of year to see the waterfalls?s family-friendly?
Spring and autumn are ideal – rivers run full, the landscapes are colourful, and crowds are smaller than in summer. Winter can be spectacular too, if you don’t mind the cold.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
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Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! The Travel Tinker is a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel! Tinkering your plans as you browse!
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