Hardraw Force
England's highest single-drop waterfall, a breathtaking 100ft cascade accessible via the charming Green Dragon Inn.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Hardraw Force
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
England's highest single-drop waterfall, a breathtaking 100ft cascade accessible via the charming Green Dragon Inn.
"This is England's highest single fall waterfall, and should definitely be up there on your waterfall bucket list."
🎯 Pay at the Pub
Entry fee is £4pp. Cash is preferred, but card/contactless accepted. Check pub hours! :ticket:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Paths can be slippery when wet, especially the natural stone steps to the top. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
England's Highest Single Drop
Base of the waterfall
Witness the breathtaking 100-foot cascade thundering down, a truly powerful natural spectacle.
+1
Robin Hood Filming Location
Behind the Green Dragon Inn
Imagine Maid Marion spying Robin Hood bathing here! A touch of movie magic at this iconic spot.
+1
Wild Swimming Opportunity
Pool at the base of the falls
Brave souls can take a dip in the clear pool at the waterfall's base for an unforgettable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entry Fee & Hours
Accessibility & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pay at the Pub
Entry fee is £4pp. Cash is preferred, but card/contactless accepted. Check pub hours! +1 :ticket:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Paths can be slippery when wet, especially the natural stone steps to the top. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scale
Photos don't do it justice! Try different angles to convey its immense power. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Gem
Your furry friends are welcome at the waterfall, forest, and cafe. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pay at the Pub
Entry fee is £4pp. Cash is preferred, but card/contactless accepted. Check pub hours! +1 :ticket:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Paths can be slippery when wet, especially the natural stone steps to the top. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scale
Photos don't do it justice! Try different angles to convey its immense power. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Gem
Your furry friends are welcome at the waterfall, forest, and cafe. :dog:
🚗 Parking Info
Limited parking at Green Dragon Inn, with off-road options nearby. Arrive early! :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hardraw Force for its spectacular beauty and accessibility, highlighting it as England's highest single-drop waterfall. The well-maintained paths, friendly staff, and convenient cafe/pub access are frequently mentioned positives. Some note that photos don't fully capture its grandeur, and the upper paths can be challenging when wet.
"We didn't know before we visited that this is a privately owned waterfall and grounds and the task of keeping this going and the upkeep must be phenomenal to the standard that it is and breaking it up into 3 different routes for visitors is excellent 👏 and throw in the coffee ☕️ shop and visitors centre it's ideal 👏. Better still there is a pub at the entrance 😀 and a beautiful church ⛪️ next door to visit at the same time ⏲️."
Vincent Wells
"Beautiful single-drop waterfall- you can't capture its size or beauty on camera. You can mark at the attraction, or a few miles away if you want to follow one of the many of the circular walks which include this stop. There are also some ruins of ancient buildings, and a beautiful river to see within the ticketed area. At the base of the waterfall is a deep, clear pool where you can wild swim. This is a great stop for the whole family!
There is a short walk to the falls from the entrance, or a longer walk (around 2km total) which goes up to the top of the waterfall and back down. If you start by following the right-hand entrance, there are newly built stairs to the top. The other side features a natural stone "staircase" which is very steep and unstable in places, although there are safety barriers.
🎟️ You do have to pay to get in as the land is privately owned and maintained but this is well worth it as the place is stunning with no litter. It is only £4 per person and you can pay cash, card, or contactless. All of the paths, stairs, and bridges are in excellent condition. There is a small cafe when you enter/ exit and everything is reasonably priced with friendly staff!
🦮✅ Dog friendly! The waterfall, forest, and cafe are all dog friendly."
April De Wilde
"The highest single drop falls in England of 100 feet looks spectacular, even in this summer drought.
As a bonus, the road back to the motorway, the A684, is a stunning stretch of countryside road that gives a fantastic view of the Howgill hills.
Hardraw Force is a stunning waterfall situated just off the A684, which runs along the length of Wensleydale, a truly beautiful stretch of English countryside. It sits in an estate behind the Green Dragon pub, a handy satnav setting, and costs £4 at time of writing. They prefer cash. There are also full toilet facilities and a cafe. Parking is restricted, about 12-15 spaces but there is also off road parking by the Old School House.
The path is firm and wide and suitable for all visitors and only about half a mile long. There are plenty of benches and tables to sit and picnic and a variety of trails around the rest of the estate.
Many waterfalls are difficult to get to but Hardraw is totally accessible and stunning to see."
Ian Seville
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hardraw Force is located behind the Green Dragon Inn in Hardraw, near Hawes. If driving, use postcode DL8 3LZ. For public transport, take a train to Garsdale and then pre-book 'The Little White Bus' shuttle service.
Yes, there is a small car park at the Green Dragon Inn. It can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised. Some off-road parking is also available near the Old School House.
Yes, you can reach Hardraw Force via public transport. Take a train to Garsdale station, and then arrange a pick-up with 'The Little White Bus' (01969 422050), which will drop you directly at the waterfall.
The nearest town to Hardraw Force is Hawes, a charming market town in Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Yes, Hardraw Force can be a great day trip from Lincoln. It's within a 90-minute drive and offers a beautiful natural escape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee of £4 per adult and £2 per child. Cash is preferred, but card and contactless payments are also accepted.
Access to Hardraw Force is through the grounds of the Green Dragon Inn, so you must visit within their opening hours. It's best to check the pub's current hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not typically required for Hardraw Force. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the Green Dragon Inn.
Most visitors find the £4 entrance fee well worth it for the stunning scenery, well-maintained paths, and the unique experience of visiting England's highest single-drop waterfall.
While cash is preferred for the entrance fee, card and contactless payments are generally accepted at the Green Dragon Inn.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the waterfall is generally easy and short, about a 5-10 minute stroll from the Green Dragon Inn. There are also longer circular routes available.
The lower path to the waterfall is level and can be managed with care, making it accessible for wheelchairs. However, the upper paths involve steep, natural stone steps.
Yes, there is a deep, clear pool at the base of the waterfall where wild swimming is possible. It's a popular spot for an invigorating dip.
Besides the waterfall, the estate includes ancient building ruins, a beautiful river, and various walking trails. There's also a cafe and a church nearby.
You can see the main waterfall in about 30 minutes, but if you explore the surrounding trails, enjoy a picnic, or swim, you could easily spend 1-2 hours or more.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the entrance/exit of Hardraw Force, offering reasonably priced refreshments and snacks.
The Green Dragon Inn is located at the entrance to Hardraw Force and is a popular spot for food and drinks. It's a great place to refuel before or after your visit.
Yes, there are plenty of benches and tables available for picnics within the estate grounds, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The cafe at Hardraw Force offers a selection of refreshments, including coffee, and is known for its friendly staff and reasonable prices.
While the waterfall and cafe are dog-friendly, it's always a good idea to confirm the specific dog policies for the Green Dragon Inn itself if you plan to dine inside.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for photography. After heavy rain, the waterfall is at its most dramatic, though spray can be intense.
While challenging to capture its full scale, you can get impressive shots from the base. Experiment with wide-angle lenses and different perspectives to convey its power.
The base of the waterfall offers a dramatic viewpoint. For a different perspective, consider the upper paths, though they require more effort and caution.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the entire waterfall. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance the water's texture.
Drone usage may be restricted due to it being private land and a natural attraction. Always check local regulations and obtain permission if necessary before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated spots, and consider the cafe for a treat. While the upper paths can be steep and slippery, the main viewing area is safe and accessible. Remember to check the Green Dragon Inn's hours before you go, as access is through their grounds.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
For hikers, Hardraw Force can be incorporated into longer walks in the Yorkshire Dales. The surrounding area offers numerous trails, and the waterfall itself provides a stunning focal point. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore the upper, more challenging paths.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the entire cascade. The mist and spray can add dramatic effect, but be sure to protect your gear. The surrounding landscape also offers opportunities for scenic shots, especially during autumn or after rain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Hardraw Force
+1Visitors often remark that photographs struggle to capture the true grandeur of Hardraw Force. The experience is amplified by the surrounding natural beauty and the distinct atmosphere of the Yorkshire Dales. It's a place that truly engages the senses, with the sound of the water and the mist creating a refreshing environment.
Beyond its natural beauty, Hardraw Force holds a touch of cinematic history, having been featured in the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. This adds another layer of intrigue for visitors, allowing them to connect with a piece of popular culture while immersed in a stunning natural landscape.
+1Navigating Hardraw Force: Trails and Accessibility
For those seeking a more adventurous perspective, there are options to explore the area around the top of the waterfall. One route features newly constructed stairs, while another utilizes a natural stone 'staircase.' These upper paths are steeper and can be quite unstable and slippery, especially after rain, so caution is advised.
Despite the potential challenges of the upper trails, the overall accessibility of Hardraw Force is a significant draw. The fact that such a powerful natural feature is easily reachable, with well-maintained paths and clear signage, makes it a popular choice for families and casual walkers alike.
Planning Your Visit: Fees, Facilities, and Local Charm
The estate offers more than just the waterfall. Visitors can enjoy a small cafe with reasonably priced refreshments and a visitors' centre. For those who wish to extend their stay or enjoy a picnic, there are ample benches and tables available. The Green Dragon Inn itself is a popular spot for food and drinks, adding to the convenience and charm of the visit.
Adding to the local charm, a beautiful church stands next to the pub, and the surrounding area offers opportunities for longer circular walks, including routes that take you to the top of the waterfall. The estate is also noted for being dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their pets along to enjoy the natural beauty.
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