If the thought of manoeuvring through tourist crowds makes you feel slightly queasy, Eskdale in the Lake District could just be your saviour. Tucked away in the quieter, wilder side of the Western Lake District, Eskdale lies within a glacier-carved valley that feels a world away from the likes of Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere.
Imagine discovering the most beautiful waterfalls that tumble into emerald pools, surrounded by towering peaks where you can plunge into crystal-clear mountain waters. Exploring the hidden corners of Eskdale take you on a magical journey through one of the most beautiful valleys in England.
Eskdale Wild Swimming and Waterfalls
Upper Eskdale in particular is a natural paradise brimming with waterfalls and deep rock pools. The River Esk carves its way through the Eskdale Valley, creating thundering cascades and some of the best wild swimming spots in the Lake District. If you love the thrill of seeking out secret spaces for a refreshing dip, you’ll be in your element here.
Tongue Pot Eskdale
One of the most beautiful wild swimming spots in the Lake District, Tongue Pot is a deep, emerald-green pool just a little further down from Lingcove Beck on the River Esk, shaded by an ancient ash tree. A series of small cascades flow into the pool and there’s a good stretch of water which makes it ideal for swimming.
Lingcove Beck Waterfall & Throstle Gill Packhorse Bridge
Further up from Tongue Pot, you’ll come to the old packhorse bridge at Throstle Gill and Lingcove Beck waterfall. The pool here is much shallower and not suitable for swimming, but it does make a picture-perfect scene for photographs or just sitting and taking in the views.
If you cross over to the right-hand side of the waterfall and continue a little further up, you come to more stunning waterfalls and hidden pools. Make sure you don’t miss the secret cave pool.
Esk Falls
Cross over the packhorse bridge and follow the river upstream – this can get very boggy in places but there is a path on the right that will lead you part of the way up. You then need to follow the narrow path that runs along the river but be careful as there is a steep drop down on your left. As you turn the bend, Esk Falls comes into view. This is a magnificent waterfall with a small pool below it where you can take a dip. You do have to climb down some steep rocky sections to reach it so make sure you watch your footing.
There are several more waterfalls and pools as you make your way back down the river. If you visit at quieter times, there’s a chance that you may get one of the pools all to yourself.
Stanley Ghyll Force
Further down the Eskdale Valley, Stanley Ghyll Force is a dramatic waterfall hidden among a wooded ravine. There are several routes up to the falls but the quickest is from Dalegarth. If you take the path from Dalegarth Campsite, you’ll pass Trough House Bridge, spanning the River Esk, another popular wild swimming spot.
Continue along the well-signposted trail for approximately 20 minutes and you’ll arrive at the 60-foot waterfall. While you can’t swim here, you can witness the thundering torrent from the suspension viewing bridge.
Gill Force
A relatively short walk from the Brook House Inn, Gill Force is a pretty woodland waterfall that flows beneath a wooden bridge and into the River Esk. There are several stony beaches where you can access the water and enjoy a swim.
Blea Tarn Eskdale
If you prefer still water to rushing rivers, the short, steep hike up to Blea Tarn from Beckfoot railway station is well worth the effort for the panoramic views alone. Set high above the valley, the tarn is set in a peaceful, secluded spot for a tranquil swim.
Things to Do at Eskdale, Lake District
You don’t have to climb a mountain or brave the icy cold waters to fall in love with Eskdale. The valley is packed with history, culture and fun experiences for visitors of all ages.
Ravenglass and Eskdale Steam Railway
Ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, affectionately known as La’al Ratty (meaning “Little Railway” in Cumbrian dialect). This charming miniature steam train chugs along a 2.5-mile route from the coastal village of Ravenglass right into the heart of Eskdale at Boot. It’s a wonderful, nostalgic way to take in the valley’s scenery. Board the Eskdale train at the pretty Dalegarth railway station with its fellside backdrop.
St. Catherine’s Church
Located in the tiny village of Boot along a quiet country track, St. Catherine’s Church is often discovered by walkers en route to Gill Force or Stanley Ghyll.
It’s also known for the famous stepping stones that cross the River Esk.
Eskdale Mill
Dating back to the 16th century, Eskdale Mill takes you on a journey back in time and is believed to be the oldest working water-powered corn mill in the country. You can explore the machinery, learn about the area’s industrial heritage and watch the giant waterwheel turn.
Giggle Alley Japanese Garden
Tucked inside a small woodland in Eskdale Green, the Japanese Garden at Giggle Alley is a hidden treasure not many people know about. Originally laid out in the early 20th century, this tranquil oasis features mossy stone lanterns, winding paths, exotic plants and peaceful ponds. It’s a serene place for a gentle afternoon stroll if you prefer something less taxing than the fells.
EskFest
Taking place each July in the field next to the Woolpack Inn, EskFest is an independent micro-festival with a spectacular backdrop. There’s a wonderful sense of community and local bands and artists take to the four stages. There are also local food stalls, outdoor bars and fun workshops and camping is available.
Eskdale Walks
Eskdale is a walker’s paradise, with everything from gentle riverside ambles to more challenging mountain hikes.
Scafell Pike Walk from Eskdale: Eskdale serves as one of the quieter starting points to conquer Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England.
Hardknott Roman Fort: Combine history with a bracing walk by visiting the remains of Hardknott Roman Fort, perched on a rocky spur overlooking Hardknott Pass.
Harter Fell and Green Crag: If you want fantastic 360-degree views without the punishing crowds of the central fells, Harter Fell and Green Crag are brilliant options with sweeping vistas over Wastwater and the Irish Sea.
Eskdale Fell and Burnmoor Tarn: Explore the sweeping expanses of Eskdale Fell, or take the path leading toward Burnmoor Tarn, a remote body of water nestled between high moorlands.
Muncaster Fell: For a lower fell walk with magnificent views, head down the valley to Muncaster Fell. The trail takes you through open bracken and woodland with sprawling views over the valley.
Eskdale Mill to Wasdale Head: Follow the Old Corpse Road to Wasdale to discover England’s deepest lake (Wastwater) and some of the country’s most epic peaks.
Eskdale Pubs and Accommodation
If you’re anything like me, you’ll understand the importance of finding a great pub at the end of a long hike. You’ll also be pleased to learn that there are several fabulous places for refuelling and hydrating in Eskdale.
The Woolpack Inn Eskdale: The Woolly has been a favourite haunt of mine for many years, not only because of its stunning fellside setting and mouthwatering woodfired pizzas but also because of its warm atmosphere that feels like a home-from-home.
Outside, there’s a large beer garden where you can tuck into hearty home-cooked food and savour that well-earned, post-walk pint among views to die for. If you fancy lingering a little longer, there are seven lovely guest rooms available.
Visit The Woolpack Inn website
The Boot Inn: In the heart of Boot village, just before Eskdale Mill, this historic country pub is famous for its crackling fires and cheese and onion pies.
Brook House Inn: A family-run inn in a convenient location for walkers returning from St Catherine’s Church and Gill Force.
Stanley House: If you’re travelling with a larger group of family or friends, Stanley House provides the perfect dog friendly Eskdale accommodation. Just moments from the path that leads up to Stanley Ghyll Waterfall, this spacious, self-catering property sits within beautiful grounds on the banks of the River Esk and Whillan Beck. As well as boasting a large open-plan kitchen/dining area and sitting room where you can watch the steam trains chug past, there are 12 ensuite bedrooms, a cinema room and outdoor BBQ area with garden room.
Visit Stanley House website
Eskdale Campsites: Camping in Eskdale is a great alternative if you’re on a tight budget or you just prefer being closer to nature. There are several places to choose from, including Dalegarth Campsite, Eskdale National Trust Campsite, and Fisherground campsite. Alternatively, you can stay at Eskdale Youth Hostel if you don’t want to lug camping gear with you.
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