Overview: History, what to expect, and unique features of High Force
High Force is arguably the most spectacular waterfall in England, located on the River Tees in the stunning landscape of the North Pennines. The river dramatically plunges 70 feet (21 metres) over a precipice, carving a deep gorge into the ancient rock below. The waterfall’s origin lies in a geological feature known as the Great Whin Sill, a hard layer of volcanic rock (dolerite) that formed nearly 300 million years ago when molten rock spread through the earth’s crust. The sheer resistance of this rock layer creates the waterfall’s impressive drop.
Visitors access this County Durham waterfall from the northern bank via a private footpath on the Raby Estate. You can expect a pleasant woodland walk that descends to a viewing platform directly facing the base of the waterfall, offering a visceral sense of its power. The walk also includes a shorter, gentle circular route featuring woodland sculptures. High Force sits within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a Global Geopark, giving the experience a strong focus on geology, wildlife, and natural history.
The nearest villages to High Force are Bowlees and Forest-in-Teesdale, County Durham. Barnard Castle is the nearest town.
High Force waterfall opening times and access
Access to the High Force viewing area is managed via a private footpath from the High Force Hotel complex, which operates on seasonal hours.
- Summer hours: Typically open daily from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
- Winter hours: Typically open daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm.
- Last admission: Visitors should aim to arrive at least one hour before the stated closing time to complete the walk.
- Walk duration: The main walk to the viewing platform takes approximately 10 minutes one way on a well-maintained gravel path. A longer circular woodland route takes about 30–40 minutes.
High Force waterfall admission and parking fees
A fee applies for access to the private footpath leading to this North Pennines waterfall, payable to the Raby Estate. Parking charges also apply to the dedicated car park.
| Fee type | Price (Estimate, checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Admission (16+) | £3.95 | Tickets are available online or on-site. |
| Child Admission (4–15) | £2.45 | Children under 4 enter free. |
| Family Saver Ticket (2 adults + 2 children) | £10.00 (Online) / £12.00 (On-site) | The best value ticket when booking online. |
| Car Park Fee | £4.00 (Up to 4 hours) / £6.00 (Up to 6 hours) | Parking is managed by an external company and charges apply unless staying at the High Force Hotel. |
Parking note: Visitors can pay the car park fee at the machine, via a dedicated app, or sometimes inside the High Force Hotel. Confirm the current payment method on arrival.
Accessibility, safety, and amenities
The walk offers an accessible path to the main viewing area, but visitors must respect the natural power of the waterfall.
- Accessibility: The initial gravel path to the main viewpoint offers a gentle decline and is generally suitable for all-terrain pushchairs and some mobility aids (such as a Tramper, which the site offers for hire). The return route involves an uphill climb. The longer circular route includes a large flight of stairs and uneven ground.
- Safety: Never enter the water for any reason. The water levels change quickly and the current possesses extreme power. Visitors must keep to the footpaths at all times.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must remain on a lead throughout the walk to protect local wildlife and livestock.
- Facilities: Toilets (including accessible facilities) and the High Force Hotel (offering food and refreshments) are located near the car park and start of the walk.
Nearby attractions to High Force
High Force provides an ideal base for exploring the wild and beautiful Upper Teesdale area and the wider North Pennines:
- Low Force Waterfall: Located downriver, this is a series of gentler waterfalls and rapids. A popular walk connects Low Force, crossing the historic Wynch Bridge, to High Force.
- Bowlees Visitor Centre: A hub for the North Pennines AONB, offering information, maps, and nearby access to Gibson’s Cave and Summer Hill Force waterfalls.
- The Pennine Way: The long-distance walking route passes close to the waterfall, providing access to extensive moorland walks.
- Raby Castle: Located further east, this historic medieval fortress offers a rich contrast to the natural beauty of the waterfall and is managed by the same estate.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about High Force Waterfall
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is High Force the tallest waterfall in England? | High Force is the largest volume waterfall in England by the sheer amount of water, with a 70-foot (21-metre) drop. Other falls may be taller, and Hardraw Force in North Yorkshire is tallest, but High Force moves more water. |
| Can I swim in the plunge pool? | No, swimming is strictly prohibited. The water has extremely powerful currents and unpredictable changes in water level, making it very dangerous. |
| Is the walk accessible for buggies/strollers? | The short path to the main viewing platform is mostly gravel and manageable with an all-terrain buggy. The longer, circular route involves stairs and is not accessible. |
| What is the significance of the Whin Sill? | The waterfall owes its existence to the Great Whin Sill, a layer of hard, resistant dolerite rock that forms the lip over which the river plunges, constantly eroding the softer rock below. |
| Can I access the falls for free? | Accessing the falls from the northern (Durham) bank requires paying the Raby Estate admission fee. You can view the falls from the southern bank via the Pennine Way public footpath, which is free but offers a different perspective. |
More North-East England travel
Other North-East England travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- 7 reasons to visit Newcastle.
- What to expect when visiting Newcastle Castle.
- A practical guide to visiting Durham Cathedral.
- A practical guide to Corbridge Roman Town.
- What to expect when visiting Chesters Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall.
