Overview: History, what to expect, and unique features of Low Force
Low Force is a beautiful series of tiered waterfalls and cascades located downriver from the more dramatic High Force in Upper Teesdale, County Durham. While smaller than its upstream neighbour, Low Force offers a gentler, more accessible, and equally picturesque natural experience on the River Tees. Like High Force, this Pennine waterfall’s formation is due to the erosion of softer rock over the resistant igneous material of the Great Whin Sill, an underlying geological feature that shapes the landscape of the North Pennines.
Visitors to this County Durham waterfall can expect an easy, pleasant walk from the nearby car park to the falls, where the river descends over several stepped ledges. The site is famous for the Wynch Bridge, a historic, narrow suspension bridge that crosses the river just above the falls. Low Force is a popular spot for picnicking and quiet reflection, and it forms a key section of the Pennine Way long-distance footpath. The surroundings are characterized by juniper woodland, upland hay meadows, and sightings of local wildlife, including wading birds and sheep.
Low Force waterfall opening times and access
Low Force is publicly accessible via the Bowlees Visitor Centre or the main road, and there are no gate closures for the falls themselves, though car park hours may apply.
- General access: The falls are accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, via public footpaths.
- Parking hours: The nearest official car park is often located at or near the Bowlees Visitor Centre, which operates on seasonal hours (typically 10:00am–4:00pm). Check local signage for specific car park closures.
- Walk duration: The walk from the nearest car park (usually Bowlees) to Low Force takes approximately 20–30 minutes one way on a clearly marked public footpath.
- Best view: Viewing the falls from the upstream side offers a great perspective. Visitors can cross the Wynch Bridge to continue onto the Pennine Way and towards High Force.
Low Force waterfall admission and parking fees
Access to Low Force falls via the public footpath is free of charge. Costs are limited to parking and any services utilised at the nearby visitor centre.
| Fee type | Price (Estimate, checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Waterfall Access | Free | Access is via public rights of way and is not managed by a private estate. |
| Bowlees Car Park Fee | £3.00–£4.00 (Per day) | Parking charges are suggested donations, and apply at the nearest official car park. Payment is usually made via a machine or app. |
| High Force Admission | £3.95 (Adult) | A separate admission fee applies if you continue the walk to High Force, as that viewing area is on a private estate. |
Parking note: Paying for parking helps with the maintenance of the landscape.
Accessibility, safety, and amenities
Low Force is more accessible than High Force, but care is needed near the water’s edge and on the historic bridge.
- Accessibility: The path from Bowlees Visitor Centre is a well-maintained public footpath and bridleway. While mostly level, the last section descending to the falls and river is uneven and rocky. It is generally suitable for robust pushchairs, but not for standard wheelchairs.
- Wynch Bridge: The Wynch Bridge is very narrow and subject to weight restrictions; cross carefully and only one or two people at a time.
- Safety: Swimming is strongly discouraged due to strong currents, cold temperatures, and submerged rocks. Visitors must stay clear of the riverbanks.
- Facilities: The Bowlees Visitor Centre (a short walk from the falls) provides toilets, a café, information displays, and picnic tables. No facilities exist directly at the falls.
Nearby attractions to Low Force
Low Force is perfectly positioned for hikers exploring the heart of the North Pennines AONB and Geopark:
- High Force Waterfall: Located upstream, a popular 1.5-mile walk along the Pennine Way connects Low Force to the much larger High Force, though a fee applies for the final descent to the High Force viewing area.
- Bowlees Visitor Centre: Provides geological and historical information on Upper Teesdale and serves as a good starting point for local walks.
- Gibson’s Cave: A scenic, small waterfall and overhang located near the Bowlees Centre, accessible via a short footpath.
- Middleton-in-Teesdale: The main village in the area, offering pubs, shops, and accommodation for visitors exploring the waterfalls.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Low Force Waterfall
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there a charge to see Low Force? | No, access to the waterfall via the public footpath is free of charge. Only car parking requires payment. |
| Is Wynch Bridge safe to cross? | Yes, the bridge is maintained, but it is a historic, narrow suspension bridge. Visitors must cross single file and adhere to any posted safety instructions due to its weight restrictions. |
| Can I walk from Low Force to High Force? | Yes, the Pennine Way connects the two falls. The walk takes approximately 30–45 minutes, but you must pay the admission fee for the final descent to the High Force viewing platform. High Force is England’s largest waterfall, but not its tallest – that honour goes to Hardraw Force in North Yorkshire. |
| Is Low Force suitable for swimming? | Swimming is not recommended. The water is cold, the currents are strong, and the plunge pools may contain hidden hazards. |
| Where is the best place to park? | The most convenient parking is generally at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, from which a public footpath leads directly to the falls. |
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.
