
Cotter Force North Yorkshire
A serene, accessible waterfall in North Yorkshire, featuring gentle cascades and a peaceful woodland setting. Perfect for a short, easy walk.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds

Cotter Force North Yorkshire
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, accessible waterfall in North Yorkshire, featuring gentle cascades and a peaceful woodland setting. Perfect for a short, easy walk.
"An absolute must-visit for its beauty and incredible accessibility β a true hidden gem!"

π Easy Parking Available
A small layby off the A684 offers convenient parking, fitting around 6 vehicles.
πΆββοΈ Wheelchair & Pushchair Friendly
The 'miles without stiles' path is level and accessible, perfect for all visitors.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 Β· 210 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cascading Beauty of Cotter Force
Cotterdale Beck
A series of six stepped waterfalls creating a serene and picturesque cascade in a tranquil woodland.

Accessible Woodland Path
A684 layby to the falls
A 'miles without stiles' route, this level, wheelchair-friendly path offers a peaceful 10-15 minute walk to the falls.

Wild Swimming Spot
Pool at the base of the falls
The clear waters at the bottom of Cotter Force are perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessible Beauty: Easy Access to Stunning Falls
Beyond the Waterfall: Local Charm and Refreshment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
π Easy Parking Available
A small layby off the A684 offers convenient parking, fitting around 6 vehicles.
πΆββοΈ Wheelchair & Pushchair Friendly
The 'miles without stiles' path is level and accessible, perfect for all visitors.
πββοΈ Take a Refreshing Dip
The pool at the base of the falls is ideal for wild swimming on warmer days.
π³ Enjoy the Woodland Setting
The secluded, wooded area provides a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Tips
from all over the internet
π Easy Parking Available
A small layby off the A684 offers convenient parking, fitting around 6 vehicles.
πΆββοΈ Wheelchair & Pushchair Friendly
The 'miles without stiles' path is level and accessible, perfect for all visitors.
πββοΈ Take a Refreshing Dip
The pool at the base of the falls is ideal for wild swimming on warmer days.
π³ Enjoy the Woodland Setting
The secluded, wooded area provides a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
β Nearby Pub Option
A small pub is a short walk away, noted as a lovely spot for a pint.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cotter Force's stunning beauty and exceptional accessibility, making it a must-visit for all. The short, level walk from the A684 layby is perfect for families and those with mobility needs, offering a peaceful woodland escape. While some mention a nearby pub, the main draw remains the serene, stepped cascades and the opportunity for a refreshing wild swim.
"Fantastic way to see the Falls for those with anybody with accessibility needs. Easy parking & then a proper path alongside the brook with regular resting benches leading to the main event, which is absolutely stunning!"
Kay Crayford
"If you're looking for a beautiful, easily accessible waterfall that doesn't require a long hike, Cotter Force is an absolute must-visit. Tucked away in a peaceful woodland setting, this charming waterfall is a true hidden gem and the perfect reward for just a 15-minute walk."
Stuart
"A short 10 minute walk along the river brings you to this lovely, peaceful waterfall and you really can appreciate the peace and quiet along with the lovely fresh air! Well worth stopping off for a look if passing by that way on your travels, theres also a small pub a few minutes away which we were told is a lovely location for a pint but we never had the time unfortunately."
Richard Brookin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
Cotter Force is located just off the A684 between Hawes and Garsdale Head in North Yorkshire. There's a small layby that can accommodate about six vehicles, making parking straightforward.
Yes, there's a convenient layby directly off the A684 that serves as the parking area for Cotter Force.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, the falls are accessible from the A684, which is a main road. Checking local bus services for routes between Hawes and Garsdale Head would be advisable.
This designation means the path is designed to be accessible and free of obstacles like stiles, making it suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and those with mobility challenges.
The walk from the layby to Cotter Force is very short, typically around 10-15 minutes along a level footpath.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
No, Cotter Force is a natural attraction and entry is free. There are no admission fees.
As a natural outdoor location, Cotter Force is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, Cotter Force is accessible year-round. Winter visits can offer magical snowy scenes, while other seasons provide different natural beauty.
There are no specific visitor facilities like restrooms directly at the falls, but there are benches along the path for resting.
While not explicitly stated, most natural walking areas in the Yorkshire Dales are dog-friendly. Always keep dogs under control and consider the terrain.
π« ποΈ Onsite Experience
Cotter Force is a beautiful, secluded waterfall comprising six stepped cascades. It's set in a peaceful woodland with a clear pool at its base.
Yes, the pool at the bottom of the falls is a popular spot for wild swimming, especially on warmer days.
The area around Cotter Force is known for birdlife, including dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts, and long-tailed tits.
It's generally considered less crowded than some of the more famous Yorkshire Dales waterfalls, offering a more peaceful experience.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If planning to swim, bring swimwear and a towel. Waterproofs are advisable, especially if visiting after rain.
πΈ πΈ Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful soft lighting. Consider visiting on a slightly overcast day for even light, or after rain for a more dramatic cascade.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the whole scene. A tripod can help with longer exposures to smooth the water's flow.
Absolutely! The stepped cascades, the woodland setting, and the pool at the bottom offer diverse and picturesque photo opportunities.
Experiment with different angles, perhaps from the water's edge (carefully!), or focus on details like mossy rocks and the water's movement.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check current rules and guidelines for the Yorkshire Dales National Park before flying a drone.












Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit