The spectacular High Force waterfall in Autumn – read on to discover the best High Force waterfall walk with the best views

A short walk to High Force waterfall via Low Force from Bowlees

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A few photos from a stunning autumn walk to High Force waterfall

After 10 mins or so from the Bowlees Car Park you are soon at Low Force –  a nice set of waterfalls in themselves and many visitors to High Force don’t even venture down this way

There’s plenty of waterfall to catch your attention on this High Force walk

 

 

Look at those autumn colours!

 

The footpath on this walk tracks the River Tees all the way to High Force, and you’ll stope plenty of times to admire the views

This is my favourite viewpoint of High Force which you’ll come across on this walk, just swing a right at the path as soon as you hear the roar of High Force waterfall

I get the drone out when close to High Force to take a birds-eye look at those superb autumnal colours. You can see the location of the viewpoint on the photo above here to the left of centre and down a bit, where someone has a blue coat on! Make sure you visit this viewpoint it’s the best around here

The spectacular High Force waterfall in it’s Autumn coat (photo taken from my drone)

Standing right at the top of High Force and looking down the River Tees- what a view! From here you can explore upstream from High Force, or just simply retrace your steps – and it will be abut 45-60mins back to the car at Bowlees

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL – CONCLUSION

I hope this has inspired you to want to visit High Force to experience one of England’s most impressive natural landmarks. The waterfall’s stunning 70-foot drop and its dramatic geological surroundings make it a must-see for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. High Forces rich history, scenic walking trails, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful North Pennines area make it an ideal destination for a day trip. Whether you’re drawn to its breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, or the chance to discover the unique geological features, High Force offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. 

I visit High Force pretty much at least once a year in various seasons – and it’s always different – it really is a must-visit place in Northern England – and the walking route featured on this page is the one I do time and again. Enjoy!

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL History

High Force Waterfall, located in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England, is one of the most famous waterfalls in the country. The waterfall’s name derives from the Old English term “force,” meaning waterfall, and it has been a prominent feature of the landscape for centuries. Historical records suggest that High Force was known to local communities long before it became a popular tourist destination. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the waterfall was an attraction for both travelers and artists, often depicted in paintings and sketches. Today, High Force remains a symbol of natural beauty and historical significance, drawing visitors from around the world.

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL Geology

High Force Waterfall is renowned for its dramatic geological features. The waterfall drops approximately 70 feet (21 meters) into a deep plunge pool, and the surrounding rock formations are a testament to millions of years of geological history. The waterfall is formed where the River Tees flows over a band of hard volcanic rock known as the Whin Sill, which is part of a much larger igneous rock formation that stretches across northern England. The varying hardness of the rock beneath the waterfall causes the water to carve a deep gorge, making it a striking example of erosional processes. Over time, the flow of water has continued to erode the softer rocks beneath, resulting in the dramatic drop that visitors see today.

Getting There to High Force by car or public transport

Getting to High Force Waterfall by car is relatively straightforward, by driving along the B6277 road. To complete the walk featured above – simply park up at Bowlees Visitor Centre, (donation car park) or you can get a bus from Barnard Castle. Alternatively, taxis are available from Barnard Castle to High Force for those who prefer not to walk (aroudn a 20 minute journey). While public transport options are limited, the journey by car offers a direct and scenic route to this stunning natural attraction.

However you get to High Force Waterfall – I’m sure you will enjoy it!