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Cautley Spout: England's Tallest Cascade Waterfall in the Howgill Fells

Discover England’s tallest cascade waterfall set in a dramatic glacial valley with rich history and scenic Howgill Fells walks.

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Cautley Spout, located near Sedbergh in the Howgill Fells on the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is England’s tallest cascade waterfall, plunging 198 meters (650 feet) down a steep cliff. This dramatic natural spectacle is set in a glacial valley rich with archaeological history and offers scenic walking routes with panoramic views, including steep paths for adventurous visitors.

A brief summary to Cautley Spout

  • A683, Sedbergh, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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

  • Park near the Cross Keys Inn on the A683 for the closest access to Cautley Spout; parking is limited, so arrive early or midweek.
  • Wear sturdy footwear and take care on the steep, slippery path if you plan to climb to the top of the waterfall.
  • Visit Sedbergh for nearby amenities such as cafes and toilets, as there are none at the waterfall itself.
  • Allow 2 to 3 hours for a round trip walk from Sedbergh including time to enjoy views and explore the area.
  • Look out for the Andy Goldsworthy sheepfold art installation along the walking route near the waterfall.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive from Sedbergh along the A683 for approximately 7 km to the layby near the Cross Keys Inn, where parking is limited but provides the closest access to Cautley Spout. Expect a 10-15 minute drive. Parking is free but can fill quickly during peak times.

  • Bus

    Take the Western Dales Bus service to the Cross Keys Inn stop on the A683. Bus frequency varies seasonally, typically 2-4 times daily, with a single fare around £3-5. Check current timetables for exact schedules.

  • Walking

    From Sedbergh town center, walk approximately 8 km (5 miles) along marked footpaths following the River Rawthey valley to reach Cautley Spout. The terrain includes some uneven ground and moderate ascents, suitable for experienced walkers and taking 2-3 hours one way.

Cautley Spout location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Cautley Spout

A Majestic Cascade in the Heart of the Howgills

Cautley Spout stands as England’s highest cascade waterfall, with water tumbling an impressive 198 meters (650 feet) down a rugged cliff face in the Howgill Fells. Unlike tiered or plunge waterfalls, Cautley Spout’s broken cascade form creates a spectacular visual and auditory experience, visible from miles away across the surrounding landscape. It is nestled in a wild, glacially-carved valley that adds to its dramatic setting.

Natural and Archaeological Significance

The valley below the waterfall reveals traces of an Iron Age settlement, where archaeologists uncovered a stone-lined avenue leading to the waterfall’s base. This suggests the falls may have held ritual or cultural importance for ancient communities. The surrounding landscape, shaped by glaciers, features steep grassy slopes and rugged terrain that highlight the geological history of the region.

Walking Routes and Visitor Experience

Visitors can access Cautley Spout via several well-marked walking trails from the nearby town of Sedbergh or from a layby near the Cross Keys Inn on the A683. The most popular route involves a 4 km (2.5 miles) out-and-back walk with some steps and moderate ascent, suitable for most walkers. For the more adventurous, a steep, roughly stepped path ascends alongside the waterfall to the top of the Howgills, offering intimate views of the falls and sweeping panoramas, though caution is advised due to slippery and unguarded sections.

Art and Landscape Interactions

Along the walking paths near Cautley Spout, visitors encounter a distinctive sheepfold rebuilt by artist Andy Goldsworthy in 2002, part of his Sheepfolds project. This contemporary art installation blends natural materials with the landscape, adding a cultural dimension to the outdoor experience.

Local Amenities and Surroundings

While Cautley Spout itself is a natural site without facilities, nearby Sedbergh offers amenities including cafes, shops, and public toilets. Parking is limited near the Cross Keys Inn, a National Trust property that also provides a pleasant spot for refreshments after exploring the falls. The area is dog-friendly, though livestock grazing requires dogs to be kept under close control.

Seasonal and Safety Considerations

The waterfall is best visited in clear weather to fully appreciate its height and cascading flow. The steep ascent path can be slippery and challenging, especially in wet or icy conditions, so proper footwear and care are essential. The site is accessible year-round, but visitors should prepare for changing weather typical of the Yorkshire Dales region.

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