Wain Wath Force

Wain Wath Force is a low, wide waterfall on the River Swale in Upper Swaledale, inside the Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire. It sits roughly a kilometre upstream of the hamlet of Keld, an area packed with small cascades, and it is one of the easiest falls in the dale to reach because a road runs right beside it.

Where is Wain Wath Force?

The falls lie a little under a mile north of Keld, next to the B6270 that follows the upper valley. Approximate coordinates are 54.409 N, 2.182 W. Keld, Muker and the bulk of Kisdon Hill are the nearest landmarks.

What does it look like, and what does the name mean?

The Swale tumbles over a limestone ledge beneath the cliffs of Cotterby Scar. The drop is only about 1.5 metres, but the water gathers below it in a broad, deep pool. "Force" comes from the Old Norse word for a waterfall, while "Wath" is an old term for a ford, which once crossed the river above the ledge.

How do you get there and where do you park?

By car it is straightforward: pull onto the verge beside the falls if a space is free. Room is limited, so keep the road clear for others. You can also leave the car in Keld (the campsite car park has charged a small honesty-box fee in the past, so check the current price) and walk up.

What else is nearby?

Wain Wath Force pairs naturally with the other Keld waterfalls: Catrake Force, Currack Force, East Gill Force and Kisdon Force. One popular route links seven falls in a single outing, and a shorter loop from Keld covers about 2.7 miles in roughly an hour and a half at an easy pace. Long-distance footpaths cross near Keld, so you may meet through-walkers.

When should you visit?

The falls look their best after heavy rain, when the river runs full. On hot days the plunge pool draws people who want a dip. The water is cold, and after rain the current can be fast and murky, so judge conditions on the day.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No. Reaching the waterfall is free; only the private car park in Keld may charge.

Can you swim here? It is known as a wild-swimming spot, but you swim at your own risk. Stay out of the river after heavy rain.

Is it a tall waterfall? No. It is a wide, shallow ledge about 1.5 metres high, worth visiting for its setting and pool rather than its height.

Can you walk here from Keld? Yes. It is about a kilometre, and the route links easily with the other falls in the valley.