Thornton Force - Image 1
1 / 10

Thornton Force

4.8
·403 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Thornton Force, a magnificent waterfall on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales. A must-see natural wonder.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fewer crowds, fresh greenery

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Thornton Force - Image 1

Thornton Force

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fewer crowds, fresh greenery

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Thornton Force, a magnificent waterfall on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales. A must-see natural wonder.

4.8
(403 reviews)

"Amazing visit, a truly beautiful place, really enjoyable would highly recommend."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy footwear

The trail can be tough and slippery in places. Good hiking boots are essential! :athletic_shoe:

Pack snacks & water

It's a 4.3-mile walk, so fuel up! An ice cream van is sometimes available halfway. :icecream:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thornton Force Waterfall

Thornton Force Waterfall

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

The largest and most impressive waterfall on the trail, offering a powerful cascade and a pool for paddling.

Reddit
Pecca Falls

Pecca Falls

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

A series of beautiful falls with unique formations, offering stunning photo opportunities.

TikTok
Baxenghyll Gorge

Baxenghyll Gorge

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

A dramatic gorge with cascading water and lush greenery, a highlight of the trail.

TikTok
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Ingleton Waterfalls Trail Entry Fee

Be prepared for the £10-£11 entry fee for the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, which includes parking. While many find it worthwhile for the spectacular waterfalls, it's a significant cost to factor into your day trip budget. Reddit

Trail Difficulty & Commitment

The 'trail' aspect of the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail can be misleading; it's a committed 4.3-mile route with some challenging sections and elevation changes. Once you start, you'll definitely get a workout, so wear appropriate footwear and bring snacks and water. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, fresh greenery
Crowd
Low
When
After rainfall
Why
Waterfalls are at their most powerful
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thornton Force Waterfall - a popular Waterfall in the Yorkshire Dales 💦 #yorkshire #yorkshiredales #yorkshirehiking #yorkshirewalks #ukwaterfalls #waterfalls
wild_0utdoors
589 likes • 14K views

Wear sturdy footwear

The trail can be tough and slippery in places. Good hiking boots are essential! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Pack snacks & water

It's a 4.3-mile walk, so fuel up! An ice cream van is sometimes available halfway. :icecream: Reddit

Thornton Force Waterfall 🌊 #hiking #outdoors #swim #wildswimminguk #dayout😍 #uk #waterfall #thortonforcewaterfall #views
kizza0113
18 likes • 279 views
. 📍Ingleton Waterfalls, Yorkshire Dales Pecca Falls 🌊 Hollybush Spout 🌊Thornton Force 🌊 Beezley Falls 🌊 Baxenghyll Gorge 🌊 Snow Falls Distance: 4.80 miles Elevation: 680ft Time: 2h 20m 🧭 Route: Link In Bio ‘Hiking Route - Ingleton Waterfalls’ #ukhikers #ukhiking #welcometoyorkshire #lovetheoutdoors #your_explore #summit_adventures_uk #your_hikes #ukhikingofficial #hikingadventures #yorkshi...
the.yorkshire.hiker
236 likes • 5.9K views

Consider wild swimming

Some brave souls take a dip in the pools, especially at Thornton Force. :ocean: TikTok

No dog waste bins

If bringing a dog, be prepared to carry waste bags for the entire walk. :dog: Reddit

Thornton Force Waterfall is something else. • • • #thorntonforce #ingleton #hikingreels #ingeltonfalls #waterfall #hike #outdoors #travel #adventure #exploring #wanderlust #ukhikers #nationalparks #nationaltrust #countryside #greatoutdoors #solohiker #explore #exploremore #instahike #getoutside #hiking #hikinguk #hikingadventures #girlswhohike #outdoorgirl #outdoorwomen #hikebritain #hikingadvent...
ramblewithchlo
0 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy footwear

The trail can be tough and slippery in places. Good hiking boots are essential! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Pack snacks & water

It's a 4.3-mile walk, so fuel up! An ice cream van is sometimes available halfway. :icecream: Reddit

Consider wild swimming

Some brave souls take a dip in the pools, especially at Thornton Force. :ocean: TikTok

No dog waste bins

If bringing a dog, be prepared to carry waste bags for the entire walk. :dog: Reddit

Check recent rainfall

Waterfalls are most impressive after rain, but trails can be more challenging. :umbrella: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(403 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular waterfalls and the stunning natural beauty of the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, with Thornton Force being a particular highlight. The walk is described as a rewarding, albeit challenging, experience. Some find the entry fee steep and note the inconvenience of a lack of dog waste bins on the trail.

"Amazing walk, stunning views. Had such a great time and will definitely be returning at some point. My only downsides is the fact that for the full 4 mile walk there was no dog bag bins! Was a slight pain to have to carry them round for hours. Also the £11 entry fee is quite steep. However the walk is amazing and id definitely recommend"

Emily

"Thornton Force waterfall is the largest waterfall on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. A small word of warning - although not a real hike, the word trail undersells the difficulty of the round trip, one way route. Once you start the trail, you’re committed and you will definitely have a workout but nothing overly taxing, even for someone who’s scared of heights like me

This is the best place to stop for a picnic on the trail. There’s some seated banking and you can paddle in the pool at the bottom of the falls. Thornton Force is the last waterfall you’ll meet on the outward journey of the trail"

Yee Gan Ong

"Amazing visit a truly beautiful place really enjoyable would highly recommend"

Andrew Knowles

What People Like

Spectacular waterfalls
Beautiful scenery
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Steep entry fee
No dog waste bins

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Thornton Force is part of the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales. The nearest village is Ingleton. You can drive to the trail entrance, where parking is included with the entry fee. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. TikTok

Yes, parking is available at the trailhead and is included in the admission price. It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Reddit

Thornton Force is located along the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, so you generally need to pay the entry fee to access it. The trail is a loop or out-and-back, making it difficult to see just one waterfall without commitment. Reddit

Ingleton is accessible by car via the A65. The nearest train stations are Bentham and Clapham, but you would likely need a taxi or bus connection from there. TikTok

Limited bus services operate to Ingleton, but they can be infrequent. Checking local bus timetables in advance is recommended if you plan to rely on public transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entry fee for the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, which includes access to Thornton Force, is typically around £10-£11 per adult. This price often includes parking. Reddit+1

While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's advisable during peak seasons or weekends to secure your entry and avoid disappointment. Check the official Ingleton Waterfalls Trail website for current booking information. TikTok

The trail is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit. TikTok

Most visitors find the £10-£11 fee to be well worth the price for the spectacular waterfalls and the well-maintained trail. It's a unique natural attraction in the Yorkshire Dales. Reddit+1

Information on discounts for children, seniors, or group bookings may be available on the official website. It's always a good idea to inquire directly if you think you might qualify for a reduced rate. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trail is approximately 4.3 miles and is considered moderately challenging. It involves uneven terrain, steps, and some steep inclines, requiring a decent level of fitness. Reddit

The walk typically takes between 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on your pace, fitness level, and how much time you spend admiring the waterfalls and taking photos. Reddit

Yes, some visitors enjoy wild swimming in the pool at the bottom of Thornton Force, especially on warmer days. Be cautious of the currents and water temperature. TikTokInstagram

Dogs are generally allowed on the trail, but owners must be responsible and clean up after them. A key point to note is the lack of dog waste bins along the route. Reddit

There are basic facilities like toilets at the start/end of the trail. Some reviews mention an ice cream van appearing halfway around, but this is not guaranteed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The base of the waterfall offers a great perspective, and there are various vantage points along the trail to capture the cascades and surrounding scenery. Consider a drone for unique aerial shots. TikTok+1

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and gorges. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance water detail. Tripods are recommended for longer exposures, especially in lower light. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, after rainfall, the waterfalls are at their most dramatic, so capturing them in full flow is often a priority. TikTok

Drone usage might be restricted or require special permission. Always check local regulations and guidelines before flying a drone in national parks or protected areas. TikTok+1

Beyond Thornton Force, look for unique angles at Pecca Falls, the dramatic Baxenghyll Gorge, and the smaller but charming Beezley Falls. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail can be a fantastic adventure for families, but it requires preparation. The 4.3-mile trail is moderately challenging, so consider the age and stamina of your children. Younger children might find parts of the walk strenuous, and the commitment to the full trail means you can't easily turn back. Reddit

Key tips for families: bring plenty of snacks and drinks, wear sturdy, waterproof footwear for everyone, and be prepared for slippery sections. The visual spectacle of the waterfalls is captivating for kids, and the opportunity for a picnic at Thornton Force is a great incentive. Be mindful of the lack of dog waste bins if you bring a pet. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Adventurers

Solo hikers will find the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail a rewarding challenge. The well-marked path and the consistent natural beauty make for an engaging solo journey. Many solo hikers appreciate the opportunity for quiet contemplation amidst the stunning scenery. TikTokInstagram

Recommendations for solo hikers: ensure you have a fully charged phone, inform someone of your hiking plans, and carry a basic first-aid kit. The trail's popularity means you're unlikely to be completely alone, but it's always wise to be prepared. Consider the wild swimming option for an extra thrill. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Thornton Force and the surrounding waterfalls offer incredible photographic opportunities. The dramatic cascades, lush greenery, and varied terrain provide endless subjects. TikTokInstagram

Photography tips: bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the falls, a polarizing filter to manage reflections, and a tripod for longer exposures, especially in shaded areas. Be prepared for damp conditions and consider a waterproof camera bag. Drone photography can offer unique perspectives, but always check regulations. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail Experience

The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a renowned circular route in the Yorkshire Dales, showcasing a series of stunning waterfalls, including the impressive Thornton Force. This 4.3-mile walk is a commitment, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers and nature lovers. The trail winds through woodland and along riverbanks, with numerous bridges and steps to navigate. TikTokReddit

Visitors often describe the trail as more strenuous than a simple walk, with significant elevation changes and uneven terrain. Proper footwear is crucial, as the paths can become slippery, especially after rain. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of multiple waterfalls, each with its own character. TikTokReddit

Thornton Force, the largest waterfall on the route, is a major highlight, featuring a powerful cascade into a pool below. Many find this spot ideal for a picnic or even a refreshing wild swim for the brave. The trail is well-signposted, but it's wise to carry a map or use a navigation app. TikTokReddit

Best Times to Visit for Optimal Views and Fewer Crowds

The best time to visit Thornton Force and the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail depends on your priorities. For the most dramatic waterfall displays, aim for visits after periods of significant rainfall. This is when the water flow is at its peak, creating a truly spectacular sight. TikTokInstagram

However, visiting after heavy rain also means the trails will be wetter and potentially more challenging. For a balance of good water flow and manageable conditions, spring and autumn can be ideal. The lush greenery of spring and the autumnal colours can add to the scenic beauty. TikTokInstagram

To avoid the largest crowds, weekdays are generally better than weekends. Early mornings or late afternoons can also offer a more serene experience, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty without the hustle and bustle. TikTokReddit

Wild Swimming Opportunities

For the adventurous, the pools at the base of some waterfalls, particularly Thornton Force, offer opportunities for wild swimming. This is a popular activity for those seeking a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. TikTokInstagram

It's important to be aware of the risks associated with wild swimming. Water temperatures can be very cold, even in summer, and currents can be strong. Always assess the conditions carefully and swim with a buddy if possible. Instagram

Many visitors who partake in wild swimming find it an invigorating and memorable part of their visit, connecting with nature on a deeper level. TikTok

You may also like