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Loup Scar

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Riverside, Valley, Cliffs

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Picnicking, Climbing

Spring to Autumn

Photo: N Chadwick via Geograph.org.uk

Loup Scar is a short limestone gorge where the River Wharfe narrows and cuts between rocky cliffs, just upstream of Burnsall village in Wharfedale, in the Yorkshire Dales. Below the crags is a deep pool used for swimming on warm days, reached by a short riverside walk from Burnsall bridge along the ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

The Clarendon Hotel, Hebden​, The Craven Arms, Appletreewick​, The Fountaine Inn, Linton​

Craven Shepherd Huts

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Loup Scar?
North Yorkshire contains this beautiful river destination, which sits along a lovely section of Wharfedale. Walkers will easily spot the limestone cliffs rising above the water while exploring the regional paths near Burnsall village.

What type of place is Loup Scar?
Loup Scar is a wild swimming spot along the River Wharfe in North Yorkshire.

When is the best time to visit Loup Scar?
Summer heatwaves provide the ultimate conditions for braving the chilly river current and enjoying a proper outdoor swim. Late spring and early autumn also offer lovely weather for walking along the grassy banks without encountering the massive July crowds.

What can you do at Loup Scar?
Swimmers regularly plunge into the deep pool or scramble up the vertical rock faces to jump from the natural ledges. Families also enjoy spreading out picnic blankets on the soft grass nearby while photographers capture the moving water framing the ash trees.

How long should I spend at Loup Scar?
Allocating roughly two hours allows plenty of time for a refreshing dip and a short rest on the flat limestone shelves. Anyone planning a full afternoon can easily pair the visit with a longer walk further downstream.

Where do I park at Loup Scar?
Space for vehicles includes ten spots nearby, split into five day and five overnight spaces. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Loup Scar?
The Clarendon Hotel in Hebden, The Craven Arms in Appletreewick, and The Fountaine Inn in Linton offer three spots to get a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Loup Scar?
Craven Shepherd Huts provides an option for staying in the immediate area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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