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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh greenery
Thornton Force
Best Time
Fewer crowds, fresh greenery

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Thornton Force, a magnificent waterfall on the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in the Yorkshire Dales. A must-see natural wonder.
"Amazing visit, a truly beautiful place, really enjoyable would highly recommend."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thornton Force Waterfall
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
The largest and most impressive waterfall on the trail, offering a powerful cascade and a pool for paddling.

Pecca Falls
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
A series of beautiful falls with unique formations, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Baxenghyll Gorge
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
A dramatic gorge with cascading water and lush greenery, a highlight of the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail Entry Fee
Trail Difficulty & Commitment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Consider wild swimming
Some brave souls take a dip in the pools, especially at Thornton Force. :ocean:
No dog waste bins
If bringing a dog, be prepared to carry waste bags for the entire walk. :dog:
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:
Pack snacks & water
It's a 4.3-mile walk, so fuel up! An ice cream van is sometimes available halfway. :icecream:
Consider wild swimming
Some brave souls take a dip in the pools, especially at Thornton Force. :ocean:
No dog waste bins
If bringing a dog, be prepared to carry waste bags for the entire walk. :dog:
Check recent rainfall
Waterfalls are most impressive after rain, but trails can be more challenging. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, parking is available at the trailhead and is included in the admission price. It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
Beyond Thornton Force, look for unique angles at Pecca Falls, the dramatic Baxenghyll Gorge, and the smaller but charming Beezley Falls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Adventurers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail Experience
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.
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.
Best Times to Visit for Optimal Views and Fewer Crowds
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.
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.
Wild Swimming Opportunities
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.
Many visitors who partake in wild swimming find it an invigorating and memorable part of their visit, connecting with nature on a deeper level.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit