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Hell Gill Beck

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Swimming, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Luke Shaw / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Hell Gill Beck runs off the high moor at the head of Mallerstang, on the border of Cumbria and North Yorkshire, and becomes the young River Eden below its falls. Its best-known stretch is Hell Gill, a narrow, deep slot cut into limestone, where the beck runs cave-like between high walls through smal...

2

Parking nearby

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Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 1 overnight

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Hell Gill Beck?
Cumbria's wild borderlands hide this secluded gorge near Garsdale Head. Hikers discover it carving deep through the open limestone moorland.

What type of place is Hell Gill Beck?
Hell Gill Beck is a limestone slot canyon on the border of Cumbria and North Yorkshire.

When is the best time to visit Hell Gill Beck?
Spring through to autumn offers the safest conditions for exploring the deep rock trenches. Heavy rainfall at other times makes the water levels rise dangerously fast.

What can you do at Hell Gill Beck?
Swimmers can tackle an exciting canyoning adventure through narrow stone passages and plunge pools. Walking along the upper trails provides a great view of the ravine for those who prefer to stay dry.

How long should I spend at Hell Gill Beck?
Allocating a half-day gives you plenty of time to enjoy the hike and the swim. Fast groups might finish the gorge quicker, but rushing reduces the fun.

Where do I park at Hell Gill Beck?
Spaces for two vehicles are available nearby, providing one day and one overnight spot. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Hell Gill Beck?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Hell Gill Beck, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near Hell Gill Beck?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Hell Gill Beck, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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