Catrake Force

Catrake Force is a cascade on the River Swale at the village of Keld, in Upper Swaledale at the northern end of the Yorkshire Dales (North Yorkshire, England). It is a sequence of four small drops, each with its own character, and the biggest single fall is about 6 metres (20 ft). You can't see it from the road, so many visitors walk past without realising it is there, even though it sits right on the eastern edge of the hamlet.

What will you see?

The Swale tumbles down a staircase of rock ledges, so instead of one curtain of water you get a run of little falls and plunge pools. The river level changes the picture a lot. After rain the water is loud and foamy, while in dry spells the shapes of the rock are easier to make out. Catrake is one of several waterfalls around Keld, alongside Currack Force, East Gill Force, Wain Wath Force and the larger Kisdon Force.

How do you get there?

Access is through a campsite in Keld. The path starts by a farmyard close to the old post office, and steps lead down to the river. Because the route crosses working farmland and campsite ground, close gates behind you, keep dogs on a lead and be considerate of campers. Check locally for any charges and the current access arrangements before you go.

Keld lies on the Pennine Way, between Hawes and Middleton-in-Teesdale, which makes it a handy base for walking. Roads in the dale are narrow and parking in the village is limited.

Which walk includes the Keld waterfalls?

Catrake Force is usually visited on a short loop from Keld. Popular versions run from roughly 2.5 miles (4 km) up to about 5 miles (8 km) and link Catrake, Currack, East Gill and Kisdon Force. Longer write-ups add Wain Wath Force, about a kilometre upstream and only around 1.5 m high, plus other small drops. The routes are rated easy, but the descent to Kisdon Force is rough and sometimes needs a scramble, so it isn't suited to small children. Walk lengths vary between guides because the loops differ, so check a current map before setting off.

When should you visit?

The falls look their best after rain, when the flow is strongest, though the rock is also more slippery then. Summer brings longer days and easier conditions in the dale. Shoes with good grip are worth having in any season.

Frequently asked questions

Can you see Catrake Force from the road? No. It is hidden behind buildings, and you reach it by a footpath and steps.

Is there an entry fee? The path goes through a campsite, so ask locally about any fees.

How tall is it? It has four steps, and the largest single drop is about 6 m.

Can it be combined with other waterfalls? Yes. A loop from Keld can take in Currack Force, East Gill Force and Kisdon Force, and a longer one adds Wain Wath Force.