Low Force

Low Force is a run of low cascades on the River Tees in Teesdale, County Durham, in northern England. It sits inside the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a short way downstream from the far taller High Force. The biggest drop is only about 5.5 m, so the appeal is scenery and ease of access rather than sheer scale, and it slots neatly into a valley walk.

What will you see at Low Force?

The Tees tumbles over several steps of hard dark rock. It reads as a staircase of cascades more than a single curtain of water. After heavy rain, with the river running high, the falls look far more powerful than in a dry spell. Above the drops hangs the Wynch Bridge, a historic suspension footbridge listed at Grade II*. The present structure dates from the early 19th century and replaced older crossings that let lead miners from Holwick reach the workings near Middleton-in-Teesdale. Signs at both ends ask walkers to cross one at a time, as the narrow deck sways underfoot.

How do you get to Low Force?

The usual starting point is the car park at Bowlees Visitor Centre, which runs on voluntary donations. A woodland path leads down to the river and the falls in roughly half an hour at an easy pace. Once over Wynch Bridge you are on the south bank and on the Pennine Way, England's best-known long-distance footpath, which continues upstream towards High Force.

Can you combine it with High Force?

Yes, and most visitors do. Walk from Bowlees to Low Force, cross the bridge, follow the Pennine Way to High Force (a drop of about 21 m), then return by one of several routes. Depending on the variant the circuit runs about 6 to 12 km. One approach to High Force crosses private land and carries a small entry fee, so check the current price before you set off.

When should you go, and what should you watch for?

Spring and autumn are pleasant, and the day after rain gives the fullest flow. Riverside paths can be muddy and slippery, so wear proper walking shoes. Wynch Bridge has been closed on and off in recent years for repairs. Check its current status with Durham County Council or the Bowlees centre before you travel. If the bridge is shut, the falls can still be viewed from the bank, and other crossings in the valley allow you to reach the far side.

Frequently asked questions

Is Low Force the same as High Force? No. They are two separate waterfalls on the Tees. High Force lies further upstream and drops about 21 m, while Low Force is a series of smaller steps around 5.5 m high.

Do you have to pay to see Low Force? Viewing it on foot from the Bowlees side needs no ticket. The fee applies to the private-land approach to High Force from another direction.

How long should you allow? About an hour for the falls and bridge including the walk from Bowlees. A loop that adds High Force usually takes three to four hours.

Is Wynch Bridge suitable for children? It is narrow and moves when you walk on it, so people cross one at a time. Children should be supervised, and when the bridge is closed you need to use another crossing.