Stainforth Force

Waterfall in Yorkshire Craven

England

Stainforth Force

View from Feizor Thwaite In the middle ground there is a green track that crosses over the hill and goes down to join the bridleway to Feizor village. The hill must surely be Pendle Hill, a long way away! — View from Feizor Thwaite Credit: Humphrey Bolton

Stainforth Force, located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park in England, is a stunning waterfall that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. Situated near the charming village of Stainforth, the waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

The waterfall is formed by the River Ribble as it cascades over a series of rocky ledges and drops approximately 10 meters into a crystal-clear pool below. The force of the water creates a mesmerizing display of cascading white froth, which contrasts beautifully with the lush greenery that surrounds it.

Access to Stainforth Force is relatively easy, with a well-marked footpath leading visitors from the village to the waterfall. The path winds through scenic meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the sounds of birds chirping and the calming rush of the river.

Upon reaching the waterfall, visitors are treated to a serene and peaceful environment. The area is surrounded by ancient woodland and offers ample opportunities for picnicking and relaxation. Many visitors choose to sit on the rocks surrounding the waterfall, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying the soothing sounds of rushing water.

Stainforth Force is not only a beautiful natural attraction but also holds historical significance. It was a popular spot for Victorian artists and writers who sought inspiration from its sublime beauty. Today, it continues to be a beloved destination for those seeking a tranquil escape into nature.

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Stainforth Force Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.100008/-2.2791332 or Grid Reference SD8167. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

View from Feizor Thwaite

In the middle ground there is a green track that crosses over the hill and goes down to join the bridleway to Feizor village. The hill must surely be Pendle Hill, a long way away!

Humphrey Bolton

Erratic boulder on Feizor Thwaite

Carried by a glacier, perhaps from Cumbria, and dropped onto the surface of the limestone bedrock.

Humphrey Bolton

An area of springs

The spring marked on the OS map is to the left, on the Feizor side of the parish boundary wall, but there seem to be more springs here in this curiously-shaped enclosure in Giggleswick parish. The grid line passes through the enclosure, so some of it is in SD8067.

Humphrey Bolton

Distant View Towards Smearsett Scar

A frozen moorland view across to Smearsett Scar.

Rude Health

Gate and Ladder Stile in wall

Looking south-east from footpath.

Peter Wood

Wall enclosed minor road passing a stone built barn

Looking south-eastward.

Peter Wood

Pennine Bridleway sign at Upper Winskill Farm

No excuses for getting lost here! This state-of-the-art fingerpost leaves Pennine Bridleway users in no doubt over its route through this tricky five-way junction.

Mark Percy

Settle to Carlisle Railway at Stainforth

Peter Moore

New industrial unit, Langcliffe

Craven District Council is developing the former Craven Lime Works site, providing new offices, workshops and industrial units.

Ian Taylor

Knight Stainforth Bridge

This single span bridge carries the minor road linking Stainforth with Little Stainforth over the River Ribble. It was built around 1675 by Samuel Watson whose house, Knight Stainforth Hall, gave its name to the bridge. It is sometimes referred to as a packhorse bridge but this seems unlikely; packhorse bridges do not generally have parapets which would impede the horses' packs. In fact, the roadway is just the right width for a horse-drawn cart. The structure is grade II listed and is now owned by the National Trust.

Stephen McKay

Stainforth Force

The River Ribble tumbles over exposed limestone rocks just south of Knight Stainforth Bridge (which can be seen in the background). These falls have long been a tourist attraction and are now a highlight of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Stephen McKay