Lake District Waterfalls

From delicate cascades to dramatic falls down the fells, the quiet magic of Lake District waterfalls is never too far away when you stay with us at Langdale Chase.  

Among the tranquil settings of our waterside getaway you’ll find some of the best waterfalls in the Lake District, as well as easy access to stunning Lake District hikes and nature walks. Our lakeside dwelling is the ideal location to venture out to the Lake District waterfalls, nature hikes, and attractions on foot and by car. 

Read on to discover our hand-picked selection of beautiful waterfalls near Windermere and plan your next trip to the Lake District with ease.  

Aira Force – One of the Best Waterfalls in the Lake District

Arguably one of the most famous and best waterfalls in the Lake District, Aira Force is top of our list for very good reason. It’s not the highest or widest waterfall you can see in the Lake District, but its fairytale-esque surrounding charm is hard to beat. This Lake District waterfall is set within a steep gorge and cascades for 70 feet beneath a beautiful footbridge. It’s easily accessed via a well-maintained trail beginning at a National Trust car park, and if you prefer to avoid the steps to the top, views can still be enjoyed along the flat and gradual path.

Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall Near Ambleside

Whether you opt for the breezy 7-minute drive or take the hour’s walk from Langdale Chase, you’re in for a wonderful day out at Stock Ghyll Force. This Lake District waterfall is a beautiful 70-foot tributary of the River Rothay and forms part of a sequence of waterfalls that flow and pass under the famed Bridge House; originally an apple store for nearby Ambleside Hall, the quaint tiny building is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Stock Ghyll Force is in the heart of the bustling village of Ambleside which makes for a full day out exploring Lake District waterfalls, local walks and trails as well as shops and cafes.

Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall Near Ambleside

Whether you opt for the breezy 7-minute drive or take the hour’s walk from Langdale Chase, you’re in for a wonderful day out at Stock Ghyll Force. This Lake District waterfall is a beautiful 70-foot tributary of the River Rothay and forms part of a sequence of waterfalls that flow and pass under the famed Bridge House; originally an apple store for nearby Ambleside Hall, the quaint tiny building is one of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District. Stock Ghyll Force is in the heart of the bustling village of Ambleside which makes for a full day out exploring Lake District waterfalls, local walks and trails as well as shops and cafes. 

Rydal Falls Near Windermere

While it may be one of the smaller Lake District waterfalls on our list, it’s certainly one of the most picturesque. Alongside the splash pool of Rydall Falls is an 18th-century building known as ‘The Grot’ where you can enjoy a fantastic viewpoint – and stay dry – with the waterfall being perfectly framed through a large glass panel. Literary lovers are ideally placed to explore the nearby Rydal Mount which was once home to poet William Wordsworth. Rydal Falls is another one of the Lake District waterfalls that’s barely a 15-minute drive away from Langdale Chase, and you have a choice of limited, free on-street parking or nearby Rydal Gardens for paid parking. 

Tom Gill Waterfall & Tarn Hows Walk

One of the most scenic waterfalls in the Lake District, Tom Gill (or you may see it written as Tom Ghyll) cascades near Tarn Hows and is a popular starting point for a number of popular nearby walks. Tom Gill is known as one of the more challenging Lake District nature walks as the winding woodland paths take you along the lake and on some especially rocky and potentially muddy terrain. The waterfall depends greatly on recent rainfall so it’s always best to check weather conditions ahead of your visit and have appropriate footwear. The photo opportunities alone are worth the challenging Lake District hike, we promise! 

Aira ForceCircular Walk 

At just shy of 2.5km, the Aira Force circular walk is a great Lake District nature walk that can be done in under two hours. The trail is a short distance from the car park and while it’s stunning at any time of year, sections of the trail can be challenging particularly in wet conditions, so always walk carefully and in proper footwear. 

Stock Ghyll Force and Wansfell

A challenging but truly beautiful near-6km hike takes you up to the picturesque Stock Ghyll waterfall and back via winding trails, roadside, and lush woodland paths. Starting from the delightful village of Ambleside, you can continue past the stunning Lake District waterfall and onto Wansfell Pike for unrivalled views of Ambleside and Windermere. 

Rydal Water and Cave Circular 

In around two hours, you can enjoy spectacular views and a trek through Rydal Cave, a large cavern that sits above Rydal Water. The popular spot is a result of slate quarrying, and while it’s man-made, it doesn’t take away any of its resulting natural beauty. This Lake District nature walk comes in at just under 5km and offers a mix of terrain, woodland, and scenery. Rydal forms part of the local ‘Wordsworth Walk’ route that it’s thought the poet himself used to enjoy.

 Tom Gill Waterfall Circular 

The Tom Gill waterfall circular is a 2.5km route that takes you around soaring views of Wetherlam and Coniston Old Man Fells. The winding woodland trail through this Lake District waterfall can guide you to other local nature hikes including through Harry Field Wood, past Tom Gill Waterfall, and beside Tarn Hows Lake. While it’s one of the shorter Lake District nature walks, you’ll encounter steep and rocky terrain so it is definitely one for more experienced walkers.