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Stainforth Force

Waterfall

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Riverside, Farmland, Woodland

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: John S Turner via Geograph.org.uk

Stainforth Force is a set of stepped limestone waterfalls on the River Ribble just below the village of Stainforth, north of Settle in the Yorkshire Dales. The river drops over rock ledges into a large pool, beside an old stone packhorse bridge of the seventeenth century, cared for by the National T...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 7 overnight

Ye Olde Naked Man, Settle​, The Talbot Arms, Settle​, The Craven Arms, Giggleswick​

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Stainforth Force?
North Yorkshire holds this beautiful spot along the path of the River Ribble. Walkers frequently encounter the cascades just south of an old stone crossing.

What type of place is Stainforth Force?
Stainforth Force is a waterfall near a historic village in the Yorkshire Dales.

When is the best time to visit Stainforth Force?
Autumn months offer the most dramatic views when heavy rains fill the river channels. October specifically draws crowds hoping to witness salmon leaping up the drops.

What can you do at Stainforth Force?
Standing on the broad limestone ledges lets you watch the water churn into white foam. Many brave swimmers also plunge into the deep pools during rare sunny days.

How long should I spend at Stainforth Force?
Allocating roughly an hour provides plenty of time to explore the riverbanks and take photos. Packing a lunch allows for a much longer stay on the grassy banks.

Where do I park at Stainforth Force?
Vehicles can use ten spaces in the vicinity, including three day slots and seven overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Stainforth Force?
Ye Olde Naked Man, Settle, The Talbot Arms, Settle, and The Craven Arms, Giggleswick provide three options near the cascades. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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