Galleny Force Waterfall in Borrowdale Valley
Discover the enchanting Galleny Force Waterfall, a tranquil mossy gorge with crystal-clear pools nestled in Borrowdale Valley’s stunning natural landscape.
Galleny Force Waterfall, also known as Fairy Glen, is a stunning natural attraction nestled in the lush Borrowdale Valley near Keswick in the Lake District. This enchanting waterfall cascades through a mossy gorge into crystal-clear pools, offering visitors a tranquil and scenic spot perfect for wild swimming, photography, and nature walks. Surrounded by ancient woodland and dramatic ravines, it is a hidden gem celebrated for its serene beauty and refreshing atmosphere.
A brief summary to Galleny Force Waterfall
- Keswick, Borrowdale, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the paths can be slippery and uneven, especially near the waterfall and pools.
- Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy wild swimming in the clear pools during warmer months.
- Visit on a sunny day to see the pools sparkle and capture the best photographs.
- Respect the natural environment by taking all litter with you and sticking to marked trails.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Borrowdale Valley to explore other scenic spots nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Keswick, the journey to Galleny Force near Stonethwaite takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Parking is limited near Stonethwaite village, so arrive early during peak seasons. Roads are narrow and winding, typical of Lake District rural routes. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Keswick to Stonethwaite, which runs several times daily with a journey time of about 30-40 minutes. Buses are less frequent on weekends and holidays, so check schedules in advance. From Stonethwaite, it is a short walk to the waterfall.
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Walking
For an immersive experience, hike from Stonethwaite village to Galleny Force via well-marked woodland trails. The walk is around 1.5 km, taking 30-40 minutes on uneven terrain, suitable for moderately fit walkers. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some slippery sections.
Galleny Force Waterfall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Galleny Force Waterfall
A Hidden Gem in Borrowdale's Heart
Galleny Force Waterfall, often referred to as Fairy Glen, is tucked away in the picturesque Borrowdale Valley near Keswick, Cumbria. This waterfall is not just a cascade of water but a captivating natural spectacle set within a moss-covered gorge along Stonethwaite Beck. The area is renowned for its lush greenery, ancient woodlands, and the soothing sounds of rushing water, making it a peaceful retreat from busier tourist spots.Enchanting Pools and Water Features
The waterfall tumbles into a series of crystal-clear pools that are especially popular on sunny days. These pools invite adventurous visitors to indulge in wild swimming, offering a refreshing experience amid the cool waters surrounded by nature’s artistry. The interplay of light on the water and the surrounding mossy rocks creates a magical ambiance that has inspired many photographers and nature lovers.Setting and Surrounding Landscape
Galleny Force is set within a dramatic ravine, with steep, wooded slopes that frame the waterfall and pools. The gorge is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of native plants and wildlife thriving in the moist environment. The surrounding Borrowdale Valley is famed for its rugged fells, tranquil lakes, and traditional Lakeland scenery, providing a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and relaxation.Visitor Experience and Activities
Visitors to Galleny Force can enjoy gentle walks through the woodland trails leading to the falls, which are accessible by a short hike from nearby Stonethwaite. The area is ideal for photography, picnicking, and nature observation. The waterfall’s secluded location ensures a quiet atmosphere, perfect for mindfulness and soaking in the natural beauty. During warmer months, the pools become a favored spot for wild swimming enthusiasts seeking an invigorating dip.Local Significance and Conservation
As part of the Lake District National Park, Galleny Force is protected for its natural and scenic value. The site exemplifies the region’s commitment to preserving its unique landscapes and habitats. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that this enchanting spot remains pristine for future generations.Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Located near the village of Stonethwaite and the town of Keswick, Galleny Force offers easy access to a range of amenities and accommodations, including charming cottages and guesthouses. The surrounding Borrowdale area is rich with hiking routes, cultural heritage sites, and other waterfalls, making it an excellent base for exploring the Lake District’s diverse attractions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Tarn Hows
14.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tarn Hows, a nature reserve in the Lake District with stunning landscapes and tranquil walking trails.
Aira Force Waterfall
14.6 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
14.7 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Eskdale Mill
15.3 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
Mirehouse & Gardens
15.8 km
Explore Mirehouse & Gardens: A tranquil escape in the Lake District, blending beautiful gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views of nature.
National Trust - Wray
15.8 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
Wild Ennerdale
16.4 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Wild Ennerdale, a national forest in the Lake District, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
16.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
16.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Brockhole on Windermere
16.8 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Latterbarrow
16.9 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve
17.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Townend
17.2 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Holehird Gardens
18.5 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
19.0 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bowder Stone
3.8 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Honister Slate Mine
4.8 km
Explore England’s last working slate mine with thrilling adventures and rich heritage amid stunning Lake District landscapes.
Lodore Falls
5.6 km
Experience the breathtaking cascade of Lodore Falls nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s Borrowdale Valley.
Lake District National Park
5.7 km
Explore England’s breathtaking Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Surprise View
5.9 km
Breathtaking panoramic views over Derwent Water and Skiddaw from a peaceful, accessible Lake District vantage point.
Ashness Bridge
6.6 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Goldscope Mine
6.9 km
Explore the historic copper and lead mining legacy nestled in the scenic Lake District’s Newlands Valley.
Helvellyn
7.3 km
Helvellyn, the Lake District’s thrilling 950m peak, offers iconic ridge scrambles, stunning panoramas, and a rich volcanic heritage.
Catbells
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and accessible trails of Cat Bells, a beloved Lake District fell near Keswick with iconic panoramas over Derwentwater.
The Lancrigg
7.4 km
Historic Lake District charm meets scenic romance at The Lancrigg, a timeless wedding venue nestled in Grasmere’s stunning fells.
Brandlehow Park
7.8 km
A peaceful National Trust park on Derwentwater’s quiet western shore, perfect for lakeside strolls, picnics, and views of Catbells and the Borrowdale fells.
Derwentwater
7.8 km
Explore Derwentwater’s breathtaking lake, dramatic fells, and charming Keswick shores in England’s iconic Lake District.
Newlands Valley
7.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and iconic hiking trails of Newlands Valley, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Lake District near Keswick.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
8.1 km
Discover the inspiring Georgian villa of Allan Bank, nestled in Grasmere’s scenic woodland with rich literary and conservation heritage.
Scafell Pike
8.2 km
Explore Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking opportunities in the heart of the Lake District.
Essential places to dine
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
7.0 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
7.1 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
The Jumble Room
8.4 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
9.6 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Inn on the Lake
12.1 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
The Cottage In The Wood
12.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining nestled in Whinlatter Forest with cozy rooms and stunning views of the Lake District’s Skiddaw mountains.
Dodds Restaurant
13.4 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
13.5 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucy's on a plate
13.5 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
13.5 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
13.6 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
14.1 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
The Samling Hotel
15.3 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
15.7 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
15.8 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
10.2 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Love the Lakes Keswick
10.3 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Alternative
10.3 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
10.4 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Booths, Keswick
10.5 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Booths, Windermere
20.2 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
20.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
20.7 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
20.7 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
20.7 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
20.7 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Herdy Bowness
20.7 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
20.7 km
Discover gifts and memorabilia inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
20.8 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
20.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wainwrights' Inn
9.3 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
9.6 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
The Talbot Bar
12.0 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
12.1 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Vault
13.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
13.6 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Kirkstile Inn
15.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of cozy hospitality, local flavors, and stunning Lake District scenery at the Kirkstile Inn.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
16.9 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
17.7 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
20.1 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
20.1 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
20.1 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
20.1 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Hole in t' Wall
20.7 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
20.7 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
