YORKSHIRE DALES WALK • COMPLETE WATERFALL CIRCUIT

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

Follow two rivers through woodland, limestone gorges and open countryside, with Pecca Falls, Thornton Force, Beezley Falls and Baxenghyll Gorge.

Distance4.3–4.5 miles / 7 km

Time2–4 hours

DifficultyModerate

StartBroadwood Entrance, Ingleton, LA6 3ET

ParkingTrail car park at the Broadwood Entrance; admission charges apply

Best forWaterfalls, gorges & photography

The route at a glance

Why this walking route is worth doing.

Huge cascades, narrow ravines and woodland paths arrive one after another on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. This privately managed circular walk follows the River Twiss to Pecca Falls and Thornton Force, crosses open countryside, then returns beside the River Doe through Beezley Falls and Baxenghyll Gorge.

It is a compact route with very little quiet time between waterfalls, viewpoints and gorge scenery. The trail is well marked, but repeated steps, wet stone and uneven ground make it a real walk rather than a gentle stroll.

Mapped and ready

See the route before you set off.

The genuine route overview and live map sit together, so you can understand the whole journey before opening the detailed directions.

Explore the live route

Route overview

The complete circular route follows two river valleys:

1. Leave the Broadwood Entrance beside the River Twiss
2. Climb through woodland towards Pecca Falls
3. Continue to the main viewpoint at Thornton Force
4. Cross open countryside between the two valleys
5. Descend towards the River Doe and Beezley Falls
6. Follow the managed trail through Baxenghyll Gorge
7. Continue beside the River Doe back towards Ingleton

Use the interactive map to understand the shape of the circuit, but follow the official trail signs, current opening information and any temporary diversions on the day.

Follow the route

1. Enter at Broadwood, Ingleton, LA6 3ET, and follow the official circular trail beside the River Twiss. The first woodland section begins building towards a succession of cascades.

2. Continue through the gorge to Pecca Falls. Expect uneven paths, stone steps and wet surfaces, especially after rain. Stay on the managed trail and use the marked viewpoints.

3. Follow the route to Thornton Force, the broad limestone waterfall that forms the trail’s main landmark. Take care on the approach and avoid climbing beyond barriers or onto wet rocks.

4. Leave the River Twiss section and cross the open countryside between the two valleys. This is a more exposed stretch, so carry layers and check the weather before setting out.

5. Descend towards the River Doe and continue to Beezley Falls, where the water rushes through a rocky channel in a series of fast drops.

6. Follow the official path through Baxenghyll Gorge. The ravine and viewing points are dramatic, but the water and drops require close supervision of children and dogs.

7. Continue beside the River Doe through woodland, passing smaller cascades and calmer pools before the trail returns towards Ingleton and the entrance area.

Live hotel map

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Explore live hotels and holiday accommodation around Ingleton, Yorkshire Dales, then compare the options that fit the route rather than booking somewhere miles out of the way.

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Before you go

Practical information.

Admission: This is a privately managed, paid-entry trail. Prices, opening times and last-entry arrangements can change, so check the official Ingleton Waterfalls Trail information before travelling.

Parking: The main car park and entrance are at Broadwood, Ingleton, LA6 3ET. Follow current signs and arrive early during weekends, holidays and good weather.

Terrain: Expect many steps, uneven stone, narrow sections, tree roots and slippery surfaces. Walking boots or strong shoes with dependable grip are recommended.

Weather: Rain makes the waterfalls more powerful but also increases the risk of slips. Check conditions and do not enter closed sections or leave the managed route.

Water and gorge safety: Keep children and dogs close near waterfalls, ravines and viewing points. Never climb barriers, stand on wet rocks or enter fast-flowing water.

Dogs: Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control and on a lead wherever signs, livestock, crowds or exposed sections require it.

Accessibility: The complete trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs because of the many steps, narrow paths and uneven ground.

Facilities: Ingleton has cafés, pubs, toilets and places to stay, but individual opening times vary.