Ingleton Waterfall - Yorkshire Dales

On Christmas Day 2024, I embarked on a remarkable walk around Ingleton Waterfalls, nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Exploring Ingleton Waterfalls and the Loop

The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a well-established route that spans approximately 4.5 miles (7 km). This circular path includes numerous steps and uneven terrain which had me huffing and puffing at times. The trail is divided into two main sections: the River Twiss and the River Doe.

Waterfalls of the River Twiss

Starting from the main entrance, I followed the path alongside the River Twiss. The first highlight was Pecca Falls, a series of five cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush woodland. The power of the water plunging into the rocky pools below was amazing. Not far beyond lay Hollybush Spout, a narrower yet equally dramatic fall.

The walk along this stretch involved several steep steps, requiring steady footing. However, the effort was well worth it, as the views continued to impress. At the top of the climb, I reached Thornton Force, arguably the most iconic of the Ingleton waterfalls. Here, the water falls 46 feet (14 metres) over a limestone edge, creating a dramatic spectacle.

Waterfalls of the River Doe

The second half of the trail is along the River Doe. The landscape here felt wilder, with jagged rocks and faster-flowing water. The first major feature was Beezley Falls, a sequence of smaller falls flowing through a narrow gorge.

Further along, I came across Rival Falls, followed by Snow Falls, which provided a tranquil setting with its steady flow and overhanging trees. This section of the path included more steps and uneven ground and the combination of limestone formations and water-carved gorges just went to show the raw power of nature.

The Route

The entire loop is well-signposted and you can easily navigate the trail. That said, there are numerous steps along the route which make it challenging.

Benches and rest spots are strategically placed along the trail, allowing opportunities to pause and appreciate the views. Facilities, including a café and toilets, are available near the entrance, making this walk accessible and convenient for visitors. It’s worth noting that the trail operates on a ticketed basis, with fees contributing to its maintenance and at the time of writing are £10 per adult.