Lodore Falls

Overview

Lodore Falls is a spectacular waterfall in the Lake District. The water starts in the beck from Watendlath Tarn, then cascades over huge rocks and boulders down into the valley. The drop is over 100 feet (30.5 metres) high. It’s a fantastic sight best seen after a heavy rainfall, where you’ll get the greatest volume of water.

There’s a bench where you can enjoy a picnic, read a book, or simply admire the stunning view of the waterfall. If you’re feeling active, you can also do one of the many walking routes that include the falls.

The waterfall was a popular attraction during the Victorian era, when many tourists flocked to Keswick, and it’s also a favourite location for wedding pictures for couples who get married nearby. It inspired the famous onomatopoeic poem ‘How does the water come down at Lodore’ by Robert Southey.

Where is Lodore Falls?

Lodore Falls is directly behind the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa, around halfway between Ashness Bridge and Grange Village. It is located near the Grange end of Derwentwater, the third-largest lake in the Lake District by area.

You can access the waterfall via a gate from the road near the Lodore Hotel or from Ashness Road, depending on which direction you come from.

This beauty spot in Cumbria is a romantic place for couples, a relaxing location for solo contemplation, or somewhere fun to take adventurous children as a stop-off on a longer walk.

Is Lodore Falls dog friendly?

Yes, you are welcome to take dogs to Lodore Falls. Pooches will love scrambling over the rocks to get closer to the water and cooling their paws in the stream.

When is the best time to visit Lodore Falls?

It is best to visit Lodore Falls either on a rainy day (get those waterproofs out!) or just after a period of heavy rain. During these times, you’ll see the waterfall at its best, with water gushing over the boulders below.

Following rain, the waterfall can be very loud, providing an atmospheric soundtrack to your walk.

When there’s been an extended dry spell (unusual for the Lakes!), the waterfall will be reduced to a trickle. Even so, it’s still a lovely spot to visit.

Can you swim in Lodore Falls?

No, unfortunately, you can’t swim in the water at Lodore Falls. You may be able to have a little paddle here, depending on how much water there is. But be very careful on the rocks surrounding the falls, as they will be slippery.

If you’re looking for a wild swim spot, check out nearby Derwentwater. Here, you’ll find the water easy to access from many places along the shoreline.

Lodore Falls walks

Lodore Falls makes for a great stop-off during a longer walk. Why not pack up a picnic in the self-catering kitchen at YHA Borrowdale and enjoy it against the backdrop of the stunning cascade?

Some of the best routes to do include:

Lodore Falls, Watendlath, Grange Fell, and the Bowder Stone Circular (8 miles/12.8 kilometres)
Derwentwater to Lodore Falls circular (3.5 miles/5.6 kilometres)
Lodore Falls and Surprise View (1 mile/1.6 kilometres)
Lodore Falls to Catbells circular (5 miles/8 kilometres)

If you’re planning to head out on a walk, plan and research the route beforehand, and remember to bring a paper map with you to help navigate. Also, please be mindful of the weather, which can change quickly in the Lake District.

Lodore Falls to Surprise View

Surprise View is an excellent addition to your visit to Lodore Falls. From this cliff edge, you can see the entirety of Derwentwater. On clear days, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Bassenthwaite lake in the distance.

This is an especially gorgeous spot to watch a sunset in the Lake District, so visit later on in the day to enjoy the views as the sun goes down. Don’t forget to bring a headtorch with you to walk back.

How to get to Lodore Falls from YHA Borrowdale

Lodore Falls is about 3.6 miles (5.8 kilometres) from YHA Borrowdale.

By public transport: There is a direct bus route from YHA Borrowdale to Lodore Falls. Catch the 78 bus from Longthwaite Road end (around a six-minute walk from the hostel) and alight at Lodore Hotel. The journey should take approximately 19 minutes.

Driving: It’s around a 10-minute drive from YHA Borrowdale to Lodore Falls.

You can park for free at the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa if you buy a drink at their bar or pop in for a bite to eat.

You can also park at the National Trust Kettlewell car park and walk around 0.75 miles (1.2 kilometres) to the waterfall. This is a pay and display car park that is free for National Trust members. It’s an easy walk from here to the falls, so it is suitable for families with children.