Cautley Spout, the highest cascade waterfall in England, is absolutely worth a stop on your list. The scenery is stunning and definitely worth the effort. Although the hike is quite challenging, we even saw a couple in their 70s camping at the summit and crossing a cliff section with ease. As younger hikers, we definitely couldn’t lose to that! That said, the weather here is no joke. The wind was so strong it completely numbed my lower lip to the point where I couldn’t even speak properly. At times, it felt like I could literally be blown off my feet. The “wild British wind” is real and should not be underestimated. The full hike takes around 5–6 hours at a steady pace. Overall, the route can be quite risky in sections, so proper gear is highly recommended. Happy hiking everyone!
Cautley Spout
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Cautley Spout
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Cautley Spout famous?
Cautley Spout is England's highest above-ground waterfall at 198 metres (650 feet), a dramatic series of cascades tumbling down a glacial ravine in the remote Howgill Fells. It is beloved by walkers for its wild, rugged setting and the challenging ascent alongside the falls to reach The Calf summit.
Can you swim at Cautley Spout?
No. Cautley Spout is a steep cascade on a remote fell; no safe swimming area exists at the base. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Cautley Spout?
Dogs allowed on leads on Yorkshire Dales National Park trails. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Cautley Spout free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit required to access Cautley Spout or the surrounding Howgill Fells in the Yorkshire Dales. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Cautley Spout?
Free parking available at Cross Keys Temperance Inn (roadside lay-by) on the A683, approximately 5 km north of Sedbergh. Limited spaces; can fill on busy weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Cautley Spout?
About 6.4 km (4 miles) return from the Cross Keys car park to the top of the falls, or 3.2 km (2 miles) return to the base viewpoint. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Cautley Spout hike difficulty
Moderate to Hard. Steep ascent (300m+ elevation gain) on rough, often boggy path; rocky scrambles near the top. The lower viewpoint path is Moderate. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Cautley Spout?
Late autumn through spring (October–May) after heavy rainfall, when the waterfall is in full spate and most impressive. Summer can see reduced flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Cautley Spout
From the Cross Keys car park on the A683, follow the footpath signposted to Cautley Spout, heading west across fields. The path climbs steeply alongside Cautley Holme Beck with the waterfall visible ahead. For the base viewpoint, follow the lower path; to ascend to the top of the falls, continue on the steep, rocky path alongside the cascades. The route becomes a scramble in places near the top and can be very slippery when wet.
Cautley Spout official website
Attractions near Cautley Spout
- •The Calf (676m) – highest peak in the Howgill Fells, reached via continuation of Cautley Spout path
- •Sedbergh – historic market town at base of Howgills, known as England's Book Town
- •Howgill Fells – distinctive rounded hills offering remote fell walking
- •Rawthey Valley – scenic glacial valley below Cautley Spout with riverside walks
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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