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Scale Force Waterfall

Waterfall

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Lakeside, Woodland, Mountain

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Trevor Harris via Geograph.org.uk

Scale Force is a tall, slender waterfall dropping through a narrow, mossy, tree-lined cleft in the fells near Buttermere in the Lake District, generally reckoned the highest waterfall in the district at around 170 feet. Wordsworth described it as a fine chasm with a lofty, slender fall of water. It ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

9 day, 1 overnight

The Bridge Hotel – Buttermere, Syke Farm Tearoom​, Kirkstile Inn – Loweswater

Syke Farm Campsite, Workington Holiday Home

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Scale Force Waterfall?
Cumbria's famous Lake District National Park holds this spectacular force on the northern flank of Red Pike. Hikers usually track the path up from Buttermere village to reach the deep gorge.

What type of place is Scale Force Waterfall?
Scale Force Waterfall is a waterfall near Buttermere in the Lake District.

When is the best time to visit Scale Force Waterfall?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking along the rugged hillside. Choosing an early morning hour guarantees the ultimate atmospheric isolation before crowds arrive.

What can you do at Scale Force Waterfall?
Walking up the rugged tracks gives you an incredible view of the main drop inside the chasm. Photography enthusiasts can capture how the slender white column of rushing water glimmers through the trees.

How long should I spend at Scale Force Waterfall?
Allocating roughly two hours provides ample time to complete the round trip from the village. A longer stay allows you to appreciate the wild surroundings without any rush.

Where do I park at Scale Force Waterfall?
Motorists can use the ten available spaces nearby, which consist of nine day and one overnight spot. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Scale Force Waterfall?
The Bridge Hotel, Syke Farm Tearoom, and Kirkstile Inn provide three places to get a meal in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Scale Force Waterfall?
Syke Farm Campsite and Workington Holiday Home offer two places to stay in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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