Five of the Best Waterfalls in Derbyshire
The Derbyshire countryside is a spectacular mix of fossil-filled valleys, rugged moorlands and rolling farmland, but did you know the county is also home to more than a dozen spectacular waterfalls and weirs? So whether you’re keen to see the tallest waterfall in the Peak District National Park or are on the hunt for pretty waterside spots to paddle with the kids, keep reading to explore five amazing waterfalls in Derbyshire that will keep you coming back to this spectacular part of the country for more.
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The Kinder Downfall
The Kinder Downfall is located on the River Kinder and cascades down the side of Kinder Scout, a huge landmark that people come from miles around to climb. It’s a beautiful spot with far-reaching views over the rugged dales landscape and an impressive 30-metre waterfall that sprays up a cloud of mist on windier days.
This is the highest waterfall in the Peak District, so bring sturdy footwear and only set off in decent weather. There are several ways of getting to the Kinder Downfall, with a range of circular routes ranging from roughly seven to 15 miles. For bonus waterfalls along the way up Kinder Scout, start from Edale and make your way up Crowden Clough next to the downhill course of the Crowden Brook (some sections involve scrambling).
Still got energy to expend? Find more inspiration for scenic Derbyshire days out with Pitchup’s favourite walks in the Peak District National Park.
Lumsdale Falls
Lumsdale Falls on the Bentley Brook is just to the south of the national park and plummets in rocky steps down steep-sided Lumsdale Valley. Key sights along the way to the cascades are the ruins of mills that sprang up along this stretch of the river between the 17th and 19th centuries, when the Industrial Revolution was in full flow; they are rare water-powered mills and as such the area has been listed as an Ancient Monument by Historic England.
The waterfall is close to the popular tourist towns of Matlock, and there is limited free parking in the town centre. While you‘re there, why not explore the best attractions Matlock has to offer?
In the know: part of the main route to the falls is closed off, but there’s a permissive path that runs past the mill ruins; they are currently fenced off for safety reasons.
Three Shires Head
Located close to the point where Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire converge, Three Shires Head is stunning – it’s one of the most popular waterfalls in the Peak District for good reason, as easy road access, the ancient stone packhorse bridge and great opportunities for paddling in the River Dane make visiting here a top day out for all the family. You can also try out a spot of wild swimming just a short walk away at nearby Panniers Pool.
Three Shires Head is on the edge of the High Peak area of the national park, 15 minutes’ drive from the elegant spa town of Buxton. There’s free parking in Gradbach village.
Lathkill Dale
Although less dramatic than the 30-metre drop you can see at the Kinder Downfall, the waterfall in Lathkill Dale, about 10 minutes’ drive from Bakewell, is one of Derbyshire's prettiest as it tumbles over moss-festooned rocks. Set in one of the most striking of Derbyshire’s limestone dales, the falls are reached by a circular riverside walk through a steep gorge with a lush backdrop of ash, alder, beech, sycamore and birch woodland.
You can lengthen your stroll to include the series of weirs on the River Lathkill – sections of which have been known to disappear underground during dry weather – which were built in the late 19th century to encourage trout to breed for fishing.
There are a handful of free parking spaces at the start of the walk and in the villages of Over Haddon or Monyash.
In the know: Parts of this path can get waterlogged so you'll need suitable footwear.
Middle Black Clough
Middle Black Clough is a peaceful Peak District waterfall in a location teaming with wildlife, making this a great spot for pond dipping, birdwatching and other outdoorsy activities with the family.
Located in the Longdendale Valley, this pretty 10-metre waterfall is about 20 minutes’ walk from the free car park off the A628. Make sure that you’re wearing waterproof footwear if coming here, as some sections of the path involve crossing shallow parts of the river. Because of this, bear in mind that the waterfall may not be accessible if you visit just after heavy rainfall.
Travelling to Derbyshire? Pitchup has a range of camping options across the county and the Peak District, from simple farm sites to holiday parks and glamping pods.
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