Best waterfalls around New Hutton are found within the wider Lake District National Park, a region known for its diverse natural features and dramatic landscapes. While New Hutton itself is a small civil parish, its proximity to the fells and valleys provides access to some of England's most impressive cascades. The area offers a range of waterfall experiences, from towering single-drop falls to picturesque series of cascades, making it a notable destination for those exploring the natural beauty of Cumbria.
…Last updated: August 9, 2026
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You can see Cautley Spout as soon as you start heading up the valley. Steep ascent to get above it but you can enjoy it from the bottom.
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The small waterfalls are situated next to Side House which looks like an old farm house. You can take a path left or right of the waterfalls to reach the path up to Potter Tarn. The path on the left follows the stream and the path on the right follows an old disused road above the stream.
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An awe-inspiring place. The walk in across the bottom of the dale is easy with constant views and the rumbling of the looming waterfall. Climbing the path alongside the cascade is recommended, although it becomes very steep on the rough stone steps. From here, you can continue to the top of The Calf, the highest point in the area.
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Cautley Spout waterfall is reported to have the highest drop in England at 180m. It's certainly spectacular!
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The River Sprint rises high on Harter Fell and flows into the River Kent just south of Burneside. The first two miles of the river feature a series of spectacular water falls, before it enters Longsleddale valley, where it is joined by many streams, or becks as they're known locally.
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Very beautiful and exceptionally high waterfall. You can view them from different angles during the ascent.
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While New Hutton itself is a small parish, the surrounding Lake District National Park boasts spectacular waterfalls. Cautley Spout Waterfall, England's highest unbroken waterfall, tumbles approximately 650 feet down a mountainside. Other notable cascades in the wider region include Aira Force near Ullswater, known for its picturesque 65-foot drop and ancient woodland, and Scale Force near Crummock Water, the highest single-drop waterfall in the Lake District at 170 feet.
The walk across the bottom of the dale to Cautley Spout Waterfall is generally easy and offers constant views. While the climb alongside the cascade becomes very steep on rough stone steps, younger children can enjoy the base of the falls. For families with older children or those seeking a more challenging hike, continuing to the top of The Calf is an option.
Waterfalls in the Lake District are impressive year-round, but they are particularly spectacular after periods of heavy rain, when the water flow is at its strongest. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery with lush greenery or vibrant fall colors, while summer provides warmer weather for exploring. Winter visits can be dramatic, but paths may be icy and require appropriate gear.
While many waterfalls in the Lake District involve uneven terrain, Aira Force near Ullswater is known for its well-maintained, predominantly flat trail, making it one of the more accessible options. Stock Ghyll Force in Ambleside is also a popular choice due to its proximity to the town and relatively short walk, though the path can be rough.
Many trails leading to waterfalls in the Lake District are dog-friendly, including the routes to Cautley Spout Waterfall and Side House Waterfall. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock, steep drops, and to protect local wildlife. Always check specific signage at trailheads for any restrictions.
The area around New Hutton and the wider Lake District offers a variety of hiking trails. You can find moderate hikes like the 'Kendal Fell viewpoint – Cunswick Scar summit cairn loop' or easier options such as the 'View of Kendal – The Helm Trig Point loop'. For more details and routes, explore the Hiking around New Hutton guide.
Yes, the region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Sedgwick and Holme loop from Oxenholme', or explore mountain biking trails like the 'View of Borrowdale Valley – River in Borrowdale Valley loop from Kendal'. For more options, check out the Road Cycling Routes around New Hutton and MTB Trails around New Hutton guides.
For Cautley Spout Waterfall, visitors often find parking in lay-bys along the road, especially in the afternoon or early evening. For other popular waterfalls like Aira Force or Stock Ghyll Force, dedicated car parks are usually available, though they can fill up quickly during peak season. Always arrive early or consider public transport where available.
The Lake District is rich in natural beauty. Near Cautley Spout Waterfall, you'll experience dramatic fells and the rumbling sound of the cascade. The River Sprint itself features a series of spectacular falls before entering the Longsleddale valley. Other areas boast ancient woodlands, arboretums, deep gorges, and expansive views over lakes like Ullswater.
Yes, Rydal Falls is a notable example. Located within beautiful woodlands, it was a frequent haunt of the poet William Wordsworth. It even features the 'Rydal Grot,' an 18th-century viewing house designed to frame the waterfall, offering a blend of natural beauty and literary history.
Visitors are often awe-struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the waterfalls, particularly the impressive height of Cautley Spout Waterfall. The dramatic scenery, the sound of rushing water, and the rewarding walks through picturesque landscapes are frequently highlighted. The remote and wild feel of places like Scale Force also leaves a lasting impression.
While specific circular walks directly from New Hutton to waterfalls might vary, many popular waterfalls in the wider Lake District, such as Aira Force, have well-established circular routes that allow you to experience the falls from different viewpoints and explore the surrounding woodland. For Side House Waterfall, you can take a path left or right to reach the path up to Potter Tarn, creating a loop.
While the immediate vicinity of some waterfalls like Cautley Spout Waterfall might be more remote, popular waterfall destinations like Stock Ghyll Force are just a short walk from the amenities of Ambleside, which offers numerous cafes and pubs. Similarly, areas around Ullswater (for Aira Force) and Rydal (for Rydal Falls) have options for refreshments nearby.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around New Hutton: