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Colwith Force

Waterfall

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Photography

Year round

Photo: Les Hull via Geograph.org.uk

Colwith Force is a waterfall on the River Brathay near Little Langdale in the Lake District, hidden away in woodland. The river drops in a set of steps totalling around forty feet, screened by trees so that you come on it only from the path. It is often walked as part of a circuit taking in nearby S...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

The Three Shires Inn – Little Langdale, The Eltermere Inn – Elterwater, Chesters by the River

Elterwater Hostel, Fox Corner, Rohan Rise

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Colwith Force?
Cumbria fields this remarkable multi-stage waterfall along the course of the River Brathay. Gaining access requires following a woodland footpath through the trees near Little Langdale.

What type of place is Colwith Force?
Colwith Force is a multi-tiered waterfall near Little Langdale in the Lake District National Park.

When is the best time to visit Colwith Force?
Heavy rain during the winter months creates the most dramatic display as the water volume swells significantly. Any season works well though, as the surrounding woodland offers beautiful shifts in colour throughout the year.

What can you do at Colwith Force?
Standing on the timber viewing platform allows you to feel the deep vibrations of the pounding water beneath your boots. Keen photographers often spend time capturing the white foam against the mossy limestone gorge.

How long should I spend at Colwith Force?
Allocating roughly forty-five minutes provides plenty of time to enjoy the cascades and snap some decent photos. Combining the stop with a longer circular walk through the valley makes for a great half-day outing.

Where do I park at Colwith Force?
Motorists can use ten available spaces nearby, providing five day and five overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Colwith Force?
The Three Shires Inn in Little Langdale, The Eltermere Inn in Elterwater, and Chesters by the River offer three spots to grab a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Colwith Force?
Elterwater Hostel, Fox Corner, and Rohan Rise provide three places to book a stay in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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