Top 6 Waterfalls around Alston Moor

For a family-friendly experience, Ashgill Force is a great choice. It's easily accessible via marked trails from the B6277 road or a scenic path from Garrigill village. The South Tyne Trail from Ashgill Force to Garrigill also offers a pleasant walk with pools and small cascades. Additionally, the River Nent Waterfall is family-friendly and offers lovely views from nearby bridges.

Yes, you can walk behind Ashgill Force. This unique feature allows visitors to stand inside the spray and view the cascade from an unusual, protected vantage point, offering a rare perspective on the water's power. Be aware that the area can be slippery underfoot.

Ashgill Force is often less crowded than other well-known waterfalls in the region, offering a more tranquil experience. For a truly remote and secluded option, Cash Force, located off the northern slopes of Cross Fell, is not signed and lacks a formal footpath, making it relatively unvisited. However, accessing Cash Force requires good navigation skills over moorland.

There are various walking routes available. For example, you can take a scenic walk from Garrigill to Ashgill Force, which takes about half an hour. The South Tyne Trail follows the river from Ashgill Waterfall to Garrigill. For a more challenging hike, Cauldron Snout Waterfall is accessible via a rocky footpath from the Pennine Way, though it can be treacherous when wet.

The area around Ashgill Force holds historical significance, being near former lead mines that were central to Alston Moor's economy during the industrial era. This adds a layer of historical context to your visit.

Sturdy footwear is highly recommended due to potentially slippery rocky sections, especially when walking behind waterfalls like Ashgill Force or navigating the rocky path to Cauldron Snout. Waterproof clothing might also be beneficial, particularly if you plan to get close to the spray or visit during wet weather.

Several easy hikes allow you to experience the waterfalls. You can find routes like the 'Ashgill Force loop from Garrigill' or the 'Alston Market Cross – River Nent Waterfall loop from Alston'. These are part of the Easy hikes around Alston Moor guide and are suitable for a relaxed outing.

Yes, Cash Force is particularly notable for its geological formation. It cascades down a 20-30 meter outcrop of the Whin Sill, a formidable volcanic rock formation. Similarly, Cauldron Snout Waterfall is formed by the River Tees passing over dolerite steps of the Whin Sill, creating a dramatic series of falls.

Many trails around Alston Moor are dog-friendly. For instance, the South Tyne Trail: Ashgill Force to Garrigill is listed as dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock or steep drops, and follow local guidelines.

Beyond waterfall viewing, Alston Moor offers a range of outdoor activities. You can explore more waterfall hikes, or try easy hikes through the scenic landscape. For cyclists, there are various road cycling routes that traverse the beautiful North Pennines region.

The River Nent Waterfall provides lovely views and excellent photo opportunities, especially from nearby bridges. Ashgill Force also offers a picturesque view, particularly when seen from below, with the B6277 bridge arching over it.

Yes, the River Nent, a major tributary of the South Tyne, features several dramatic waterfalls within Alston Moor, including High Nent Force. Cauldron Snout Waterfall is also a significant natural monument where the River Tees descends through a rocky ravine.