Best waterfalls around Preston-Under-Scar are found within the Yorkshire Dales, a region known for its numerous cascades. The village is situated to provide access to waterfalls in nearby Wensleydale and Swaledale. These areas feature diverse natural water formations, from powerful single-drop falls to accessible stepped cascades. The landscape offers varied terrain for exploring these natural features.
Last updated: May 24, 2026
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Located in the village of West Burton, Cauldron Falls are available for enjoyment by just about anyone - it's an easy walk right from the village. It is a beautiful spot - it was, in fact, one of the spots painted by Turner on his travels in the Dales.
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May not be the highest waterfalls but definitely worth a visit. There are three set of falls which are all marked on the information boards.
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Beautiful waterfalls which were used in the Kevin Costner version of Robin Hood for the river fight with Little John.
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Though not the highest waterfalls they are definitely worth a visit.
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Though not the highest waterfalls they are still definitely worth a visit.
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The falls can get really busy with people mooching. Try and avoid weekends and holidays if this bothers you. Would recommend starting a walk away from the falls and adding them to the walk , then you can utilise the cafe
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Several waterfalls in the area are great for families. Aysgarth Upper Falls, Aysgarth Lower Falls, and Cauldron Falls are all noted as family-friendly. Cotter Force, while not listed in the highlights, is also highly accessible with a path suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, making it an excellent choice for families.
Yes, Aysgarth Middle Falls offers a disabled viewpoint for wheelchairs. Additionally, Cotter Force features a specially graded path suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, ensuring easy access for all visitors. Wain Wath Force is also easily viewable from the roadside with nearby parking.
The waterfalls are particularly dramatic after heavy rainfall, which can occur at any time of year but is more common in autumn and winter. However, for comfortable walking and exploring, late spring and summer offer milder weather. The surrounding woodlands, like those at Kisdon Force, are beautiful in autumn with changing foliage.
Absolutely. Aysgarth Falls, including Aysgarth Lower Falls, has been a popular attraction for over 200 years, visited by famous figures like Wordsworth and Turner. It also served as a filming location for *Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves*. Hardraw Force and Cauldron Falls were also painted by Turner during his travels in the Dales.
The region boasts a variety of natural features. Aysgarth Falls is a series of three impressive stepped cascades on the River Ure. Hardraw Force is notable as England's largest single-drop waterfall, plunging about 100 feet. Cauldron Falls features a beautiful plunge pool, and Kisdon Force is surrounded by Kisdon Force Woods, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find moderate routes like the 'Redmire Force Waterfalls – Penhill Preceptory Ruins loop from Wensley' or the 'Leyburn Town Centre – View of the Yorkshire Dales loop from Wensley'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Preston-Under-Scar guide.
Yes, parking is generally available. For Aysgarth Falls, there is a National Park Visitor Centre car park. Wain Wath Force also has nearby parking, making it easily accessible. For other waterfalls, parking might be available in nearby villages or designated spots, though some, like Hardraw Force, require access through private land with an admission fee.
While not explicitly listed for all, Wain Wath Force in Upper Swaledale is known as a spot for wild swimming. Always exercise caution and check local conditions and regulations before attempting to swim in natural waters.
Beyond hiking, the area around Preston-Under-Scar offers various outdoor activities. You can find running trails, such as the 'Aysgarth Middle Falls – Aysgarth Lower Falls loop', or explore mountain biking routes like the 'Gibbon Hill and Greet's Hill loop'. For more details, check the Running Trails around Preston-Under-Scar and MTB Trails around Preston-Under-Scar guides.
Many waterfalls in the region offer stunning photographic opportunities. Aysgarth Lower Falls, with its crashing white waters, and Aysgarth Upper Falls, part of a triple flight, are much photographed. Hardraw Force, as England's largest single-drop waterfall, and the picturesque Cauldron Falls also provide excellent subjects, especially after rainfall or with autumn foliage.
Yes, the Yorkshire Dales is well-equipped with amenities. Hardraw Force is accessible through the Green Dragon Inn, which offers refreshments. The village of West Burton, home to Cauldron Falls, is picturesque and likely has local establishments. Aysgarth Falls has a National Park Visitor Centre with a café. Many villages throughout Wensleydale and Swaledale offer pubs and cafes for visitors.
Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty and the sense of stepping into a historical landscape. The 'crashing white waters' of Aysgarth Lower Falls are often highlighted, as is the 'magnificent' view of Aysgarth Middle Falls. The tranquility and accessibility of spots like Cauldron Falls are also highly valued, with many enjoying the opportunity for a bracing dip or simply admiring the scenery.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Preston-Under-Scar: