Top 7 Waterfalls around Barlow
Waterfalls around Barlow, Derbyshire, are found within the varied landscapes of the Peak District, offering a mix of natural and man-made water features. The area features unique geological formations, including limestone clefts, and historical estates that incorporate water elements into their design. Explorers can discover both secluded natural cascades and impressive engineered waterfalls, often nestled within woodlands or near ancient sites. This region provides diverse waterfall terrain for those exploring the English countryside.
Best waterfalls around Barlow
- The most popular waterfalls is Smeltingmill Brook in Beeley Plantation, a forest area that features a river and a waterfall. It offers a hillside walk through woodland, providing a quiet experience away from crowds.
- Another must-see spot is Chatsworth Aqueduct, a man-made monument and waterfall. Water cascades off the edge of a 'broken' bridge into a pond, creating the feel of an infinity pool.
- Visitors also love Waterfall Swallet, a natural monument nestled in a limestone cleft. This gem is largely hidden by trees and can be viewed from the roadside, with access to the bottom possible in summer months.
- Barlow is known for natural cascades, engineered water features, and waterfalls within forest settings. The area provides a variety of waterfall walks, from secluded natural spots to historical aqueducts that create impressive water displays.
- The waterfalls around Barlow are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 240 upvotes and over 130 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Sowter Stone Waterfall
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Waterfall Swallet
Highlight • Natural Monument
Nestled into a charming cleft of limestone, the Waterfall Swallet, which means 'a place where water breaks in on miners' is privately owned - and therefore the plunging water should be viewed from the roadside. In the summer it's possible to access the bottom of the falls through the surrounding wilderness, but the rocky area which surrounds the site is potentially dangerous in colder and wetter months.
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Sydnope Brook Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
The Sydnop Brook is small and tumbling with a nice little waterfall close to the steep and sometimes muddy/slippery path. It's a pretty walk up through the woodland.
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Smeltingmill Brook in Beeley Plantation
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Emperor Fountain Aqueduct, Chatsworth
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
A very stunning waterfall on outskirts of Matlock, this is a less busy waterfall than Lumsdale so well worth a visit, some paths are slightly overgrwon as not used as much
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This waterfall is well hidden in a cop of trees. But it is best visited during a wet spell as if it has been dry you well be met with a damp cliff wall.
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Great views from here, worth the hard work walking up 🤗
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Based on an aqueduct seen by the Sixth Duke of Devonshire at Wilhelmshohe, near Kassel. Roughly squared sandstone, of drystone construction. Impressively sited on the hillside. Four immensely tall round-arches, ending abruptly in a waterfall.
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Water from the Ring Pond flows over the Sowter Stone and down to the Aqueduct, which was constructed by Paxton in the late 1830’s and early 1840’s as part of his improvements to Stand Wood. The water continues down through Stand Wood and enters the garden above the Cascade Pond.
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Pretty waterfall. Access down to the foot of it is unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues.
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The Sydnop Brook flows down from the pond below Sydnope Hall and into the larger Potter Dam. Below the Potter and Fancy Dam it becomes Warney Brook. The Sydnop Brook is small and tumbling with a nice little waterfall close to the steep and sometimes muddy/slippery path. It's a pretty walk up through the woodland.
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The Waterfall Swallet is a virtually unknown gem along the side of unassuming road, between the small settlements of Foolow and Eyam. It's easy to simply drive past, as the waterfall is largely hidden from view by a small copse of trees. Nestled into a charming cleft of limestone, the Waterfall Swallet, which means 'a place where water breaks in on miners' is privately owned - and therefore the plunging water should be viewed from the roadside. In the summer it's possible to access the bottom of the falls through the surrounding wilderness, but the rocky area which surrounds the site is potentially dangerous in colder and wetter months.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of waterfalls can I expect to find around Barlow?
Around Barlow, Derbyshire, you'll discover a mix of natural cascades, engineered water features, and waterfalls nestled within forest settings. The area is known for its unique geological formations, including limestone clefts, and historical estates that incorporate water elements into their design. You can find both secluded natural spots and impressive man-made displays.
Are there any hidden or less-known waterfalls worth visiting near Barlow?
Yes, Waterfall Swallet is often described as a virtually unknown gem. It's largely hidden by trees and nestled in a charming limestone cleft between Foolow and Eyam. While privately owned, the plunging water can be viewed from the roadside, and access to the bottom is possible in summer months.
Are there any historical waterfalls or water features in the Barlow area?
Absolutely. The Emperor Fountain Aqueduct, Chatsworth is a notable historical site. This impressive man-made monument, inspired by an aqueduct in Germany, ends abruptly in a waterfall and offers great views from the hillside. Additionally, the Sowter Stone Waterfall at Chatsworth Park features a carved basin that collects water, offering wonderful views of the house and gardens.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls or spots suitable for a picnic near Barlow?
Yes, the Small Reservoir and Waterfall in Peak District National Park is considered family-friendly. It's a lovely spot by a lake and stream, perfect for a lunch stop on a tiny ancient bridge. It's also known as a wild swimming spot for those interested.
What kind of natural features can I see around the waterfalls near Barlow?
The waterfalls around Barlow are set within diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to see dense woodlands, limestone clefts, and river valleys. For example, Smeltingmill Brook in Beeley Plantation offers a quiet hillside walk through a woodland area with a river and waterfall.
Can I go wild swimming near any of the waterfalls?
Yes, the Small Reservoir and Waterfall in Peak District National Park is known as a spot for wild swimming, offering a refreshing experience by the lake and stream.
What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?
The Barlow area offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find numerous trails, from easy to moderate, that take you through the scenic countryside. For example, you can explore routes like the 'View of Barlow Fish Ponds – Monkwood Climb loop' or 'Between the Reservoirs – Wilkin Hill Viewpoint loop'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Barlow guide.
Are there easy hiking trails to waterfalls for beginners?
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes around Barlow that can lead you to or near waterfalls. For instance, the 'View of Barlow Fish Ponds – Barlow Brook Stone Bridge loop' is an easy option. You can find more beginner-friendly trails in the Easy hikes around Barlow guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Barlow?
Visitors appreciate the variety, from the quiet, secluded experience of places like Smeltingmill Brook in Beeley Plantation to the impressive historical display of the Emperor Fountain Aqueduct. The opportunity for peaceful walks through woodlands and the discovery of hidden natural gems are frequently highlighted.
Are there any mountain biking trails near the waterfalls?
Yes, the Barlow area also offers mountain biking opportunities. Trails like the 'Shillito Woods Trail – Cartledge Bridleway loop' provide a more challenging experience. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Barlow guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Barlow?
While waterfalls can be enjoyed year-round, the summer months generally offer easier access to some areas, such as the bottom of Waterfall Swallet. However, colder and wetter months can make rocky areas potentially dangerous. Spring and autumn provide lush scenery and often good water flow.
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