
Catrigg Force Yorkshire Dales
A hidden gem in the Yorkshire Dales, Catrigg Force is a stunning waterfall in a secluded gorge, perfect for photography and wild swimming.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmer for wild swims

Catrigg Force Yorkshire Dales
Best Time
Warmer for wild swims

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in the Yorkshire Dales, Catrigg Force is a stunning waterfall in a secluded gorge, perfect for photography and wild swimming.
"A peaceful and unspoilt waterfall, loved by everyone who finds it."

🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path can be steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Dip
Catrigg Force is a popular wild swimming spot. Bring your swimwear and a towel if you're brave!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Catrigg Force Waterfall
Wooded gorge
A secluded and magical waterfall nestled in a woodland gorge, perfect for photography and a refreshing wild swim.

Wild Swimming Opportunity
Base of the waterfall
Take a bracing dip in the clear waters of the gorge, a popular activity for adventurous visitors.

Woodland Gorge Walk
Surrounding woodland
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the trees, with the sound of the river guiding you to the falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Steep Trek
Wild Swimming Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path can be steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Dip
Catrigg Force is a popular wild swimming spot. Bring your swimwear and a towel if you're brave!
📍 Use Correct Coordinates
For parking, use BD24 9PQ. Follow signs for the falls from Stainforth village.
📸 Capture the Magic
This secluded waterfall is a photographer's dream. Allow time to find the best angles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Boots
The path can be steep and rocky; good footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🏊♀️ Pack for a Dip
Catrigg Force is a popular wild swimming spot. Bring your swimwear and a towel if you're brave!
📍 Use Correct Coordinates
For parking, use BD24 9PQ. Follow signs for the falls from Stainforth village.
📸 Capture the Magic
This secluded waterfall is a photographer's dream. Allow time to find the best angles.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and there are no stiles, just paths and gates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Catrigg Force is widely praised as a beautiful, secluded waterfall and a fantastic spot for wild swimming. Visitors love its natural, unspoilt charm and the invigorating experience of the cold water. However, some find the path to the falls challenging due to its steep and rocky nature, especially in wet conditions.
"A lovely 4.5 mile circular route or 2.1 mile 'there and back' route. I would say the longer route is tough going for the less prepared or unfit and don't have sturdy boot (or warn dry clothes in winter).
The straight route even has a rubble path and and undulations.
The end result though is a peaceful and unspoilt waterfall. Enjoy."
Tony Goose
"Ten years ago I walked here, amidst the woods, and that’s when I came across it. I was young back then, strong but stupid and so when an elderly woman warned me of what lay in the woods I ignored her. I should have listened. As I trekked for hours, the brush grew thick and soon darkness was sweeping over the land. I looked for a place to rest and as I closed my eyes I was roused from my sleep by drums, many hundreds of drums. I could barely see through the darkness and the woods but I followed the sound until I came to a clearing. It was massive and lit by countless burning torches, yet despite the light they provided I couldn’t believe my eyes. I closed my eyes in hopes I was mistaken, but once more the drums bayed me to look. There was no mistaking what I saw: it was a great force of cats. Thousands, perhaps tens of thousands, of cats amassing as a grand army. Their weapons were deadly and their purpose was clear: the destruction of the human world. I moved to run but the crunching of branches alerted them and before I knew it I could hear the mewing of the vast host behind me. Fearing for my life, I dove into the river where I knew the cats would not follow. I barely escaped and have been haunted by the memory ever since. I warn others and yet none listen. The hour when these cats march on us is close at hand, I hope we are ready but I fear we are not. The age of cats will dawn.
That all said, the hike was lovely and I would recommend it to anyone in the area. Lots of good places to take a picture."
Brendan Mc Kee
"Really nice waterfall seems kept secret from most. Park in Stainforth, Google tries to get you to access from elsewhere entrance to path are co-ordinates (54.1020714, -2.2723886), then follow until sign to the left for falls.
It is up a rather steep hill that can be tiring but only about 30-40 mins to the waterfall. We went in the snow and snowdrifts meant the final part of the path had waist high snow! Otherwise it is totally fine to take your dog and no styles etc just paths and gates. It seems you could have cool views from the top of the falls but deep snow and uncertain ground meant it was unsafe to explore."
Seb May
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Park in Stainforth (use postcode BD24 9PQ for navigation). From the village, follow signs for Catrigg Force. The initial path is relatively easy, but it becomes steeper and rockier as you approach the gorge.
Yes, parking is available in Stainforth village. The postcode BD24 9PQ is often cited for navigation to the general area.
A popular route is a circular walk from Stainforth, or a shorter 'there and back' route. The 'there and back' is about 2.1 miles, while a circular route can be around 4.5 miles.
While there isn't direct public transport to the waterfall itself, you can get to Stainforth by bus and then walk. Check local bus timetables for routes serving Stainforth.
The walk involves a steep uphill section and can be tiring, especially for the less fit. The path can be rocky and uneven, with fallen trees in places.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Catrigg Force is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. It's a free-to-access natural beauty spot.
As a natural outdoor location, Catrigg Force is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to visit Catrigg Force. It's a beautiful spot within the Yorkshire Dales National Park that can be enjoyed freely.
Yes, you can visit in winter, but be prepared for potentially challenging conditions. Snowdrifts can make the final part of the path waist-high, and the terrain will be slippery.
There are no specific restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and leave no trace. Be mindful of the steep paths and potential hazards.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are admiring the waterfall, enjoying the woodland walk, and for the adventurous, wild swimming in the gorge. It's a peaceful spot for photography and relaxation.
While families can visit, the steep and rocky paths might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Dogs are welcome.
Yes, wild swimming is very popular here. The water is cold but invigorating. Ensure you are prepared for cold water immersion and know your limits.
There are no facilities directly at Catrigg Force. You'll need to use facilities in Stainforth village before or after your visit.
The waterfall is best photographed from various angles within the gorge. Consider bringing a tripod for longer exposures, especially in lower light.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Catrigg Force. You can find cafes and pubs in the nearby village of Stainforth, such as the Knights Table cafe.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea. There are lovely spots along the walk or near the waterfall to enjoy your food. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Stainforth has a few local options. The Knights Table cafe is often recommended for lunch after a walk.
It's unlikely that food delivery services would reach this secluded spot. It's best to bring your own food or eat in Stainforth.
Expect traditional British pub fare, hearty meals, and local Yorkshire produce. Many places offer Sunday roasts and classic comfort food.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, reducing harsh shadows. However, the gorge can be quite shaded, so midday might also work for capturing the waterfall's power.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the whole scene. A tripod is useful for longer exposures to smooth the water and for low-light conditions. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections.
Explore different angles from the gorge floor and the surrounding banks. Be cautious of slippery rocks when seeking the best vantage points.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check current rules for flying drones in national parks and ensure you fly responsibly and respectfully.
Its secluded nature, the dramatic waterfall, and the lush woodland create a picturesque and tranquil scene, offering unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the woodland walk itself is enchanting, and the waterfall is a magical sight. If your children are adventurous and enjoy a bit of exploration, they'll likely love the journey. Dogs are welcome, which can be a bonus for families with pets. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on-site.
🏊♀️ Adventure Seekers & Wild Swimmers
Be prepared for the cold, even in summer, and ensure you have a towel and warm clothing for afterwards. The steep and rocky path to the falls adds to the sense of adventure. It's a place to embrace the wild and connect with nature.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens and a tripod to capture the full scene and achieve silky smooth water effects. Explore different angles from the gorge floor and surrounding banks to find unique perspectives. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a joy to spend time composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Wild Swimming at Catrigg Force
While the experience is often described as magical and revitalizing, it's crucial to be prepared. The water is consistently cold, even during warmer months, and the rocky terrain around the falls requires careful footing. Visitors often mention the improved mood, muscle recovery, and enhanced circulation as key reasons for their dip.
For those considering a swim, it's advisable to wear appropriate swimwear, bring a towel, and perhaps a warm change of clothes. Understanding your own limits with cold water is paramount. The beauty of Catrigg Force makes it a worthwhile, albeit chilly, adventure for many.
Navigating the Terrain: A Hiker's Guide
Visitors have noted that fallen trees can sometimes obstruct the path, adding an element of adventure and requiring a bit of scrambling. Despite these challenges, the reward is a peaceful and unspoilt waterfall that feels like a true hidden gem. The walk itself, through the surrounding woodland, offers a tranquil experience, with the sound of the river guiding you.
For those with mobility issues, the steeper, rockier sections and fallen trees might present difficulties. However, the main path is generally clear, and the effort is widely considered worth it for the stunning natural beauty of Catrigg Force.
Photography Opportunities at Catrigg Force
To capture the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for softer light. However, the gorge's natural shade can also make midday light manageable. A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the entire scene, and a tripod can be invaluable for achieving smooth water effects and for shooting in lower light conditions.
Be mindful of the terrain when looking for the perfect shot; slippery rocks are common. The overall atmosphere of tranquility and natural beauty makes Catrigg Force a rewarding location for both amateur and experienced photographers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit