Whorneyside Force Parking: Old Dungeon Ghyll Car Park, Great Langdale, Ambleside LA22 9JY
Distance: Approx. 3.8 miles
Ascent: 180m
Grade: Easy – Moderate
Time: Approx. 2 hours (return walk)
Nestled in the heart of Great Langdale, Whorneyside Force is one of the most beautiful hidden waterfalls in the Lake District. Whether you’re looking for your next wild swimming spot in the Lakes or you just love to listen to the sound of the cascades and soak up all those positive ions, Whorneyside falls is an incredible place to visit in the Lake District.
This Whorneyside Force walk is a journey through one of Lakeland’s most majestic landscapes, with a perfect blend of serene valleys, dramatic fell scenery and the pure tranquility of this secret waterfall.
How to Find Whorneyside Force Waterfall
Starting Point: Old Dungeon Ghyll
The Whorneyside Force waterfall walk begins at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, a historic inn that has been a favourite among walkers and climbers for decades. Although the car park isn’t very big, they will open the field during busier times. Alternatively, if you prefer a longer walk, you can park at the New Dungeon Ghyll further along the road.
From here, you can either follow the road that continues from the B5343 or take the walkers’ path that starts right from the hotel grounds.
Head out from the car park and go through the gate into a small field. On the other side, enter another gate and cross over the bridge. Where you see the little red letterbox and a sign for Stool End Farm, turn right through the gate and follow the flat tarmac path that winds through the stunning Langdale Valley. This initial stretch of the waterfall walk is relatively easy, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding scenery without worrying about your footing. The valley is flanked by majestic fells, creating a dramatic backdrop that changes with the light and weather.
After about a kilometre, you’ll reach a cattle grid. Cross over and continue towards Stool End farm. This section of the Whorneyside Force walk takes you directly through the farmyard, which might feel a bit unusual, but rest assured, you’re on the right track. Keep following the signs that say ‘path’ and footpath’.
As you leave the farmyard, the path becomes gravellier as it gently ascends. You’ll soon come to a fork with a path leading up to the right on the Band. Keep on the path on the right and go through the gate into the field. There are often bulls, cows or horsess in the field but if you keep to the track, they won’t bother you.
Through the Langdale Valley
The walk through the valley is nothing short of spectacular. Further along this path you’ll reach two kissing gates. Go through them and continue past the wooden bridge on your left. Don’t cross this first bridge.
The path begins to ascend gradually but it’s nothing too strenuous. As you continue, the scenery becomes even more dramatic with the towering peaks of Crinkle Crags looming in the distance. As you follow the stream (on your left), you’ll see a worn grassy track that veers off to the left, slightly uphill. Follow this path and take a sharp left just a few yards ahead to join a narrower, stonier path.
When you come to the second wooden bridge, the sound of rushing water grows louder as you approach Whorneyside Force. This part of the walk is particularly enchanting, with beautiful views back along the valley. Cross over the bridge and take an immediate right onto the narrow path along the left -hand side of the stream.
Finally, you’ll reach Whorneyside waterfall, which tumbles into an idyllic natural pool below. This hidden gem is one of the most beautiful waterfall walks in the Lake District and if you’re lucky, you might even have it all to yourself so you can enjoy wild swimming in peace.
The scenery surrounding the Whorneyside Force walk lets you take in the natural beauty of Great Langdale. The sound of the water, the cool breeze and the fell views make it a perfect place to unwind.
The Return Journey
When you’re ready to head back, simply retrace your steps to Old Dungeon Ghyll. The return journey offers a different perspective on the landscape, and you might notice things you missed on the way in. The changing light can also transform the scenery, making it feel like a new experience.
Happy hiking!
