Stanley Ghyll Waterfall: Majestic Cascade in Eskdale's Lush Gorge
Discover Stanley Ghyll Waterfall’s breathtaking 60-foot cascade nestled in Eskdale’s lush, fern-filled ravine, a Lake District natural gem.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is a stunning 60-foot waterfall set within a narrow, fern-filled ravine in Eskdale, Lake District. Renowned for its dramatic drop and lush woodland surroundings, it offers visitors a peaceful yet invigorating walk through mossy forests and along the River Esk. The site features a newly restored viewing platform providing breathtaking perspectives of the falls and is celebrated for its ecological richness and geological significance.
A brief summary to Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
- Holmrook, Eskdale, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as paths and stepping stones can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Park at Dalegarth Station or the nearby National Trust car park; parking at the waterfall itself is not available.
- Visit in spring or after rainfall for the most powerful and lush waterfall experience.
- Use caution on narrow and rocky sections of the trail, particularly near the gorge edges.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Drive to Dalegarth Station near Eskdale, where free parking is available. The station is about a 2 km walk from the waterfall through woodland paths. Parking spaces are limited and fill quickly during peak seasons.
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By Train and Walk
Take the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway to Dalegarth Station, then enjoy a scenic 30-40 minute walk along the River Esk through Stanley Ghyll Woods to reach the waterfall.
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By Public Bus and Taxi
From Ravenglass train station, catch a local bus or taxi to the village of Boot, then hike approximately 3 km on marked trails to the waterfall. Bus services are limited, so check schedules in advance.
Stanley Ghyll 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 Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
A Natural Masterpiece in the Heart of Eskdale
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall plunges 60 feet into a narrow, moss-covered ravine in the picturesque Eskdale Valley, one of the Lake District’s most enchanting landscapes. The waterfall is framed by a gorge approximately 150 feet deep, where rhododendrons, ferns, and a variety of lush vegetation create a near-tropical atmosphere in summer months. This dramatic cascade is not only visually captivating but also scientifically significant, with the surrounding woodland supporting rare plant species and diverse wildlife.Immersive Woodland Walks and Scenic Trails
The approach to Stanley Ghyll Waterfall is a moderate woodland walk that follows the River Esk, crossing over stepping stones and wooden footbridges. The trail meanders through tranquil, fern-filled woods rich in biodiversity, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Hikers experience a blend of flat and gently uneven terrain, with some rocky and slippery patches near the falls, especially after rain, demanding careful footing. The walk culminates at a newly constructed viewing platform that provides spectacular panoramic views of the waterfall cascading down the steep gorge.Conservation and Ecological Importance
The area around Stanley Ghyll is a hotspot for ecological study due to its unique geological formations and rare flora. Conservation efforts have included clearing invasive rhododendron to restore native vegetation and constructing safe access paths to protect the fragile environment. This woodland habitat supports a variety of bird species, red squirrels, and other native wildlife, making it a vital natural reserve within the Lake District National Park.Visitor Facilities and Access Considerations
While there are no facilities directly at the waterfall, nearby Dalegarth Station on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway offers amenities including a café, toilets, and a gift shop. Parking is limited and free at Dalegarth Station and a small National Trust car park near the entrance to Dalegarth Campsite, with no official parking at the waterfall itself. The route is accessible year-round but can be slippery and narrow in places, so visitors should wear sturdy footwear and exercise caution, especially after wet weather.Historical and Cultural Context of Eskdale
Eskdale Valley, described by famed fell walker Alfred Wainwright as one of Lakeland’s loveliest valleys, provides a rich cultural backdrop to Stanley Ghyll Waterfall. The valley is dotted with historic sites such as Eskdale Mill and traditional stone cottages in nearby villages. The waterfall and its surroundings embody the quintessential Lake District experience, blending natural beauty with a sense of timeless rural heritage.Experiencing Stanley Ghyll Throughout the Seasons
The waterfall’s character shifts with the seasons—from the lush, almost tropical greenery of summer to the stark, powerful flow after autumn rains and winter snows. Spring brings wildflowers and vibrant new growth to the woods, enhancing the sensory experience. The viewing platform offers ideal vantage points for photography and quiet reflection, making Stanley Ghyll a rewarding destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lake District
22.6 km
Explore the natural wonders of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with captivating lakes, scenic hikes, and charming villages.
Stott Park Bobbin Mill
22.8 km
Explore the historical Stott Park Bobbin Mill in the Lake District, a fascinating heritage site showcasing traditional bobbin-making in a stunning natural setting.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
22.9 km
Discover Queen Adelaide's Hill, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Lake District, offering stunning vistas of Windermere and lush landscapes.
Blackwell
23.1 km
Experience the elegance of Blackwell, an Arts & Crafts masterpiece with stunning views, rich history, and a serene atmosphere in the Lake District.
Windermere and Troutbeck
23.2 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
National Trust - Townend
23.4 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
23.6 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Start Of Cumbria Way
23.7 km
Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
Sir John Barrow Monument
23.7 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
23.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Windermere at Orrest Head Viewpoint, a must-visit in the English Lake District for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
National Trust - Fell Foot
24.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Friars Crag
24.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.
Keswick Methodist Church
25.6 km
Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.
Keswick War Memorial
25.7 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
26.8 km
Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eskdale Mill
1.6 km
Step back in time at Eskdale Mill, the Lake District’s last working water-powered corn mill with historic machinery and scenic riverside charm.
Bird How
3.5 km
A remote, rustic Lake District cottage offering peaceful off-grid retreat and prime access to challenging hiking routes in Eskdale Valley.
Eskdale
3.5 km
Discover Eskdale, a breathtaking Lake District valley of towering peaks, historic trails, and serene natural beauty in Cumbria, England.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
4.8 km
Explore one of Britain’s most remote Roman forts perched high in the Lake District with stunning valley views and evocative ruins.
Scafell Pike
8.7 km
Explore Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking opportunities in the heart of the Lake District.
Ravenglass Roman Bath House
9.3 km
Explore towering Roman ruins and ancient bathing culture at one of northern Britain’s best-preserved Roman sites in scenic Ravenglass.
Wasdale Head
9.4 km
Explore England’s highest peaks and deepest lake from the tranquil, rugged heart of Wasdale Head in the Lake District.
Ritson's Force
9.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ritson's Force, a charming waterfall nestled among England’s highest peaks in the Lake District.
Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
12.6 km
A serene mountain tarn nestled between Langdale valleys, offering iconic views of the Langdale Pikes and tranquil natural beauty.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
13.6 km
Step aboard the restored Victorian Steam Yacht Gondola for a scenic and historic cruise on Coniston Water in England’s Lake District.
Lake District National Park
14.6 km
Explore England’s largest national park, where majestic mountains, tranquil lakes, and rich literary heritage create an unforgettable natural and cultural journey.
Honister Slate Mine
14.9 km
Explore England’s last working slate mine with thrilling adventures and rich heritage amid stunning Lake District landscapes.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
15.3 km
Discover Tarn Hows, a serene National Trust tarn with accessible woodland walks and panoramic Lakeland views in the heart of the Lake District.
Colwith Force
15.8 km
Discover the serene multi-tiered waterfall of Colwith Force, a tranquil natural gem nestled in Ambleside’s lush woodland.
Galleny Force Waterfall
16.7 km
Discover the enchanting Galleny Force Waterfall, a tranquil mossy gorge with crystal-clear pools nestled in Borrowdale Valley’s stunning natural landscape.
Essential places to dine
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
12.9 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
13.9 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
16.1 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
17.7 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
The Jumble Room
18.0 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Lucy's on a plate
20.7 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
20.7 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dodds Restaurant
20.7 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
20.7 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
20.7 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
The Samling Hotel
21.1 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
21.2 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)
21.3 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
The Gaddum
21.5 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
22.5 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mountain Warehouse
23.0 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Tesco Express
23.0 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Love the Lakes Bowness
23.0 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
23.0 km
Discover gifts and memorabilia inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
23.1 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Lonsdale Galleries
23.1 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
23.1 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
The Original Man Shop
23.1 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
23.1 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
23.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Cumbria Way
23.8 km
Explore the charm of The Cumbria Way in Ulverston, where unique gifts and local artistry come together to celebrate the spirit of the Lake District.
Pretty Things Boutique
23.9 km
Discover unique ladies’ fashion and personalized styling at Ulverston’s charming Pretty Things Boutique on King Street.
Booths, Windermere
23.9 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Squirrel A store of buried treasure
24.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures in a charming converted pub at the heart of Ulverston’s Market Street.
Muse Boutique
24.0 km
Unique and affordable ladies' fashion boutique in the heart of Ulverston’s historic Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
9.3 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
Wainwrights' Inn
15.8 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
17.4 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
The Lily Bar
20.7 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Vault
20.8 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
21.9 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.
Boaters Bar
22.5 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
22.5 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
22.7 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
22.8 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Easy Breeze
22.9 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Hole in t' Wall
22.9 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
22.9 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
Lago
22.9 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Arts Bar
23.0 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
22.5 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
23.7 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lounge C9
30.2 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
30.2 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
30.3 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The loose moose
45.7 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
57.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
60.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
60.7 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
60.8 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
60.8 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
The Moorcock Inn
62.5 km
Discover the charm of The Moorcock Inn in Sedbergh, where cozy accommodations meet delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views.
Peek A Booze
64.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
64.3 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
64.3 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly