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8 woodland waterfall walks that will make you feel closer to nature
Visit one of the Woodland Trust’s magical waterfalls this spring to fully embrace all the drama of the season
Whether you’re marvelling at a vast river plunging ferociously down a rock face or a steady stream tumbling down a steep gorge, waterfalls are undoubtedly a natural sight to behold.
And as you watch the water drive its way through the landscape and listen to the sound as it builds from a gentle tinkle to an energetic burst, you can truly appreciate nature’s power and its ability to clear your mind and energise your body.
Add to that all the awe-inspiring trees, plants and wildlife often found close by, too, and it doesn’t get much better than a waterfall walk in a Woodland Trust wood.
Of course, with so many charming cascades to discover, you might need a little inspiration when it comes to choosing which to visit first. Here are 10 of the best you can experience in the UK…
Coed Nant Gwernol and Coed Hendrewallog
Abergynolwyn, Gwynedd, Wales
As you wander through this stunning woodland, you’ll find amazing views and diverse wildlife habitats. Saunter along the riverside footpath for a beautiful scenic walk that passes flowing streams, tumbling waterfalls and deep pools – and look out for the otters! Discover more
Twisleton Glen and Thornton
Ingleton, North Yorkshire
These two ancient woods are accessed via the popular Ingleton Waterfalls Walk. The four-mile trail follows the banks of the Rivers Twiss and Doe in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, where you’ll take in seven stunning waterfalls. Thornton Force and Snow Falls are two standouts. Discover more
Burntollet Wood
East of Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Bordering the tranquil Ness Country Park, this maturing woodland in the Faughan Valley is home to Northern Ireland's highest waterfall, the Ness, which descends nine metres over three stages. Discover more
Coed Felenrhyd and Llennyrch
Maentwrog, Gwynedd
This rare temperate rainforest is surrounded by the Afon Prysor gorge waterfalls in Snowdonia National Park. Follow the waymarked loop to Rhaeadr Du (the Black Falls) where two thunder over 18 metres. Discover more
Uig Wood
Skye, Scotland
A fringe of trees along the shore of Uig Bay connects with two steep-sided ravine woodlands, which are characteristic of Scotland’s rainforest. Find the Falls of Rha, a dramatic double waterfall on the River Rha, while the Rha Glen Ramble trail follows the ravine above the river and takes just 20 minutes to reach. Discover more
Get out into the woods
Every Woodland Trust member helps protect woods like these. When you join, you’ll also receive a guide to 1,000 woods to explore, all full of thrilling wildlife, stirring scenery and exciting adventure.
Greyfield Wood
High Littleton, Somerset
Several stream-side footpaths run through and around Greyfield Wood. Walk to just beyond the boundary to see a pretty waterfall that drops five metres over two ledges in the neighbouring woodland – plus, visit in spring, and you’ll be rewarded with a carpet of bluebells. Discover more
Plas Power Woods
Bersham, Clwyd, Wales
Explore diverse flora and fauna and a rich and intriguing history at one of the Woodland Trust’s most popular Welsh woods. As you roam the waymarked trails, you’ll discover not one, but two waterfalls. Discover more
Waulkmill Wood
Bollington, Cheshire
The River Dean meanders along the wood’s boundary before it pours over the edge of Clough Pool and runs away beneath a stone bridge, through the rocky gorge out into the valley. Keep an eye out for pretty spring flower displays, including bluebell and red campion, along the way. Discover more
BECOME A MEMBER
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