The largest single-drop waterfall in the UK! A hidden paradise in North Yorkshire Tired of London and Edinburgh? Then Wensleydale in North Yorkshire is definitely worth a visit. It’s not only famous worldwide for its cheese, but also home to England’s highest single-drop waterfall—Hardraw Force. Hardraw Force Waterfall: With a vertical drop of about 30 meters, the flow becomes especially impressive after rain, which is common in the UK. It was also a filming location for *Robin Hood*. A timeless village setting: Stone cottages and ancient bridges create a classic English countryside scene—perfect for photos. Greenery vibes: Surrounded by soothing green landscapes, with the fresh scent of soil and forest in the air. Practical tips: Location: Hardraw Force (near the village of Hawes) Map reference: OS Map OL30 Yorkshire Dales North & Central Entry: Access is usually through the famous The Green Dragon Inn pub, with a small maintenance fee required. What to wear: Weather in Yorkshire is unpredictable, so waterproof and non-slip hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended.
Hardraw Force
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Hardraw Force
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Hardraw Force famous?
Hardraw Force is England's highest single-drop waterfall above ground, with water plunging 30 metres over a limestone overhang. It famously featured in the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) and has hosted brass band competitions in its natural amphitheatre since Victorian times.
Can you swim at Hardraw Force?
No — swimming is not permitted at Hardraw Force. The pool is shallow and rocky. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Hardraw Force?
Dogs allowed on leads through the pub and to the waterfall. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Hardraw Force free? Do you need a permit?
Small admission fee (currently around £5–6 for adults) paid at the Green Dragon Inn, which grants access through the pub to the waterfall. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Hardraw Force?
Limited free parking is available in Hawes village, about 0.2 miles from the Green Dragon Inn entrance. Street parking near the pub or public car parks in Hawes centre. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Hardraw Force?
About 0.4 km / 0.25 miles return from the Green Dragon Inn through a short wooded valley path. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Hardraw Force hike difficulty
Easy — flat, well-maintained path through woodland alongside Hardraw Beck, suitable for most abilities. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Hardraw Force?
Late autumn through spring (November–April) for highest water flow after rainfall; summer can see reduced flow. The waterfall is accessible year-round. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Hardraw Force
Access is exclusively through the Green Dragon Inn in Hardraw village — pay the entrance fee at the pub. Exit through the back of the inn and follow the clear path alongside Hardraw Beck through the wooded gorge. The path leads directly to the base of the waterfall where you can walk behind the curtain of water via a natural rock shelf.
Hardraw Force official website
Attractions near Hardraw Force
- •Hawes — charming market town with Wensleydale Creamery, shops, and cafes (1.5 miles)
- •Aysgarth Falls — series of limestone cascades on River Ure (10 miles south)
- •Buttertubs Pass — scenic mountain pass with limestone potholes (6 miles north)
- •Semerwater — natural glacial lake ideal for picnics and walking (8 miles southeast)
- •Pennine Way — England's famous long-distance footpath passes through Hawes
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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More to explore nearby
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Yorkshire Dales, England
Triple flight of waterfalls along the River Ure.
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England's tallest cascade waterfall in the Howgills.
Aira Force
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Lake District waterfall plunging through a wooded gorge.
High Force
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England's most spectacular plunge waterfall on the River Tees.