Jenkins Crag
A serene woodland walk leading to a beautiful 70ft waterfall and a viewpoint with panoramic Windermere Lake vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Jenkins Crag
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene woodland walk leading to a beautiful 70ft waterfall and a viewpoint with panoramic Windermere Lake vistas.
"A beautiful walk up to the waterfall through the trees, with some benches on the way up. "
Wear Waterproof Footwear
Paths can be muddy and wet. Waterproof boots are a must for comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Free to Visit!
Enjoy the waterfall and views without any admission fees. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jenkins Crag Viewpoint
Skelghyll Woods
Panoramic views over Windermere Lake from a rarely crowded spot. A true hidden gem!
Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall
Skelghyll Woods
A beautiful 70-ft. waterfall cascading through a wooded area, with scenic viewpoints along the way.
Skelghyll Woods
Ambleside
A lovely woodland walk guiding you to the waterfall and viewpoint, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
What to Wear for the Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Waterproof Footwear
Paths can be muddy and wet. Waterproof boots are a must for comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Free to Visit!
Enjoy the waterfall and views without any admission fees. :moneywithwings:
Easy Access from Town
Just a 15-minute walk from Ambleside town centre. :walking:
Great for Photos
Perfect spot for capturing stunning waterfall and lake views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Waterproof Footwear
Paths can be muddy and wet. Waterproof boots are a must for comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Free to Visit!
Enjoy the waterfall and views without any admission fees. :moneywithwings:
Easy Access from Town
Just a 15-minute walk from Ambleside town centre. :walking:
Great for Photos
Perfect spot for capturing stunning waterfall and lake views.
Consider a Walking Stick
Helpful for navigating uneven and potentially slippery sections. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful Stock Ghyll Force waterfall and the stunning panoramic views from Jenkins Crag over Windermere Lake. The walk through Skelghyll Woods is consistently praised for its tranquility and natural beauty, making it a highly recommended free activity. Some mention the path can be muddy and uneven, suggesting waterproof footwear.
"Lovely waterfalls. You can follow the steep climb along the river, part walk up the road or a short distance from the nearby car park (Force Cafe, need to be a customer for parking first). We did the cafe, which was about 10 minutes, but still not ideal for those with mobility issues"
Tom (Bozz)
"Really lovely walk up to the waterfall through the trees. It's a relatively easy walk, although there is uneven ground with rocks and steps. There are some benches on the way up, although some are in better condition than others.
We went early evening on a Saturday and we were pretty much the only ones there.
It is well signposted to the falls.
It is a free walk and waterfall, you don't need to pay or get tickets.
Highly recommend coming here!"
Ellie The Goldendoodle
"Stock Ghyll Force, Ambleside’s Hidden Waterfall.
Located just a 15 minutes walk away from Ambleside town centre.
Start your journey from the road opposite the Ambleside Inn, and follow the waymarked woodland path through Stock Ghyll Woods, where the sound of rushing water guides you to various scenic viewpoints along the river.
🌊🥾Follow the red arrows trail and cross a wooden footbridge, Just below the bridge, kids can paddle in the shallow stream. It’s a perfect spot for photos and refreshing treats.📸
🌿 Free, easy, and perfect for little explorers and nature lovers!"
Maria Matos Sequeira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jenkins Crag is easily accessible via a scenic 15-minute walk from Ambleside town centre. Start from the road opposite the Ambleside Inn and follow the waymarked woodland path through Stock Ghyll Woods.
While Jenkins Crag itself doesn't have dedicated parking, the Force Cafe nearby offers parking for customers. Alternatively, you can find parking in Ambleside town centre and enjoy the walk.
You can drive part of the way, but the final approach to the viewpoint and waterfall is best done on foot through Skelghyll Woods.
Yes, Ambleside is well-served by public transport, and Jenkins Crag is a short walk from the town centre, making it accessible for those using buses.
Follow the red arrows trail through Stock Ghyll Woods. The sound of rushing water will guide you towards the waterfall and viewpoint.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jenkins Crag and Stock Ghyll Force waterfall are free to visit. You do not need to pay any admission fees.
Jenkins Crag is accessible at any time, as it's a natural outdoor attraction within Skelghyll Woods.
Stock Ghyll Force waterfall is completely free to access and enjoy.
While there are no official closing times, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
No booking is required for the Jenkins Crag walk or to see Stock Ghyll Force. It's a public access area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk involves uneven ground, rocks, and steps. It's a relatively easy walk but requires sturdy footwear.
There are no dedicated facilities at the viewpoint itself, but benches are available along the path. The nearby Force Cafe offers amenities.
Yes, it's a great spot for children to explore nature. They can paddle in the shallow stream below the footbridge.
Jenkins Crag is often described as a hidden gem and is rarely crowded, especially compared to other Lake District viewpoints.
You'll get panoramic views over Windermere Lake, offering a beautiful and serene vista.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late evenings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene lake views and waterfall.
You can capture the dramatic 70-ft. waterfall, the surrounding lush woodland, and the reflections on the water.
Yes, the viewpoint offers unobstructed panoramic views of Windermere Lake, making it a prime spot for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for the waterfall and expansive lake views. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures in lower light.
No, photography is generally permitted and encouraged at this natural attraction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Couples
The walk through Skelghyll Woods provides a tranquil setting for reflection or a romantic stroll. Visiting during off-peak hours, like early mornings or evenings, ensures maximum tranquility. The accessibility from Ambleside and the free entry make it a convenient and budget-friendly option for a memorable outing. 📸 Photographers
+1 Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the waterfall and a tripod for low-light conditions. The varied terrain and natural beauty ensure a diverse range of photographic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Walk Through Skelghyll Woods
Along the way, you'll encounter various scenic viewpoints overlooking the stream and the surrounding greenery. There are benches scattered throughout the woods, offering spots to rest and soak in the natural beauty.
It's worth noting that parts of the track can become muddy and waterlogged, especially after rainfall. This is why waterproof footwear is frequently recommended by visitors.
Understanding Stock Ghyll Force
The industrial heritage of the area is also subtly present, with remnants of old mills and water management systems visible if you look closely. Historically, water power from Stock Ghyll was used for local industries, adding a layer of historical context to the natural beauty.
Visitors often describe the waterfall as 'beautiful' and 'absolutely stunning,' especially when the water flow is strong. The sound of the rushing water is a constant companion on the walk, enhancing the sensory experience.
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