Scale Force Waterfall
England · Cumbria · 4.5 miles (round trip) · ~2 hrs 30 min (round trip)
The smaller waterfall below scale force
Scale force during summer
The valley view facing away from scale force waterfall.
Scale force waterfall
Route and Terrain
The path starts fairly easy and flat from Buttermere village, gradually becoming steeper and rockier as you approach Scale Force. We found the terrain underfoot varied, with some well-trodden dirt paths, sections of loose scree, and occasional boggy patches, especially after rain. It's roughly a 2.2-mile walk each way. The final ascent to the falls involves a bit of a scramble over rocks, so good grip footwear is a must. This is a linear route, meaning you retrace your steps. The path is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to the uneven and rocky sections. It’s generally a moderate walk, with the most challenging part being the final approach to the waterfall.
Sights & Experiences
The main draw is Scale Force itself, a spectacular 170ft (51.8m) single-drop waterfall plunging into a deep, wooded gorge. When we first arrived, we saw a smaller lower fall and thought that was it, but Scale Force is hidden just beyond, a truly breathtaking sight. The walk also offers lovely views over Crummock Water, with its serene surface reflecting the surrounding fells. We loved spotting the varied birdlife along the route; keep an eye out for willow warblers and pied flycatchers. The woodlands are ancient, with oak, ash, and birch trees, and in spring, the ground can be a carpet of bluebells and wild garlic. The atmosphere around the falls is often misty and magical.
Hidden Gems
Just before the main Scale Force, we spotted a smaller, lower waterfall which is pretty in its own right. If you’re feeling adventurous, there's a rope on the left-hand side near the lower falls that you can use to scramble up about 8 feet for a slightly different perspective, though it’s not essential. We also found that taking a slightly different, higher path back down offered some fresh views of the landscape we’d missed on the way up.
History & Heritage
The name 'Force' comes from the Old Norse word for waterfall. The village of Buttermere itself has Viking roots, and the area has inspired poets like William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who described Scale Force as a 'fine chasm, with a lofty, though but slender, fall of water'. The surrounding landscape has a rich history, with hints of ancient routes and farming practices evident as you walk.
Seasonal Changes & Best Time to Visit
Scale Force is impressive year-round, but visiting in spring offers vibrant wildflowers. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the woodlands. Be aware that after heavy rain, the paths can become very boggy and slippery, particularly the final approach to the falls.
Parking & Public Transport
The main car park is in Buttermere village, near the Court Hotel. It's a pay-and-display, with options for 2, 4, or 9 hours (£3.50, £6, £8 respectively). Public toilets are available here (50p). If this is full, there's an overflow National Trust car park just outside the village. For a cheaper option, Croft House Farm Café sometimes opens its field for parking for a smaller fee (£4), check their opening times. Free roadside parking can sometimes be found along the verge of Newlands Pass, but ar
Safety & Preparation
Although very tempting scrambling up to the the scale force waterfall is tricky, especially when wet. Only those with confident ability should attempt. The smaller waterfall has a shallow pool beneath that children or others can dip in if the scramble to scale force is too much.
Difficulty & Alternatives
We'd class this walk as moderate. While the initial section is easy, the final 15-20 minutes involve a steeper, rocky climb to the falls, requiring good footing. It's not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Families with older children should be fine, but younger ones might need carrying on steeper bits. There are no real alternative routes to Scale Force itself, but you could combine this with a walk around Buttermere lake for a longer day.
Insider Tip
Our top tip? Don't be disheartened if you first glimpse the lower falls – keep going! Scale Force, the main event, is tucked away just behind it and is well worth the extra few minutes' scramble.
Recommended Shops & Pit Stops
The Croft House Farm Café is a good spot for a post-walk treat. They're known for their 'Buttermere Butterbeer'! There are also two pubs in Buttermere village offering refreshments.
