Cauldron Snout

Cauldron Snout is a long cascade on the upper River Tees in northern England, directly beneath the Cow Green Reservoir dam in Upper Teesdale, where County Durham meets Cumbria. It sits inside the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is also a European Geopark. Commonly quoted figures put the total drop at around 60 m over roughly 180 m of river, which is why it is often described as the longest waterfall in England.

What will you see at Cauldron Snout?

Instead of a single sheer drop, the Tees tumbles down a staircase of dark dolerite, part of the Whin Sill rock formation. The water funnels through a steep, narrow channel and, after rain, you can hear it long before you arrive. The concrete dam looms at the top, so the scene mixes engineering with bare moorland. The surrounding Upper Teesdale landscape is also known for rare plants and the protected Moor House–Upper Teesdale reserve.

How do you get there?

The shortest approach starts at the Cow Green Reservoir car park and runs about 3 km one way. The path follows the reservoir shore, then heads down the valley until you reach the foot of the dam beside the falls. Longer circuits begin at Langdon Beck and link Cauldron Snout with Widdybank Fell or Cronkley Scar. The Pennine Way, Britain's oldest national long-distance trail, passes the falls too, so you will often meet walkers on the full route.

Is the path beside the falls difficult?

The route next to the cascade is rocky and includes a short scramble. When the stone is wet it becomes slippery and genuinely hazardous, so wear boots with good grip and take your time. The area is remote, mobile signal can be patchy and the moorland weather turns quickly. Carry a warm layer, water and a map.

When is the best time to visit?

Days after rain give the most dramatic flow, though they also raise the slip risk. Summer offers the best chance of dry rock and long daylight, while late spring and early summer bring the flowers Upper Teesdale is known for. In winter the area can be snowy and icy, which calls for real hill experience.

Is there anything else worth combining with it?

High Force, the better-known waterfall on the Tees, is a separate attraction much farther downstream. A full day out can pair Cauldron Snout with a stretch of the Pennine Way along the river and views over Cow Green Reservoir.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Cauldron Snout?

In Upper Teesdale, just below the Cow Green Reservoir dam, on the boundary between County Durham and Cumbria in England.

How high is it?

Sources give about 60 m of total fall over around 180 m of length. It is a cascade rather than a single drop.

How long is the walk from Cow Green car park?

About 3 km each way, which most walkers cover in roughly an hour at an easy pace.

Is Cauldron Snout on the Pennine Way?

Yes. The trail passes right beside the cascade, and the final section needs care when the rock is wet.