Elterwater Waterfalls Walk

4.7 miles (7.5 km)

A splendid circular walk from the Lake District village of Elterwater, visiting the Colwith Force and Skelwith Force waterfalls. There's much to enjoy with riverside footpaths, splendid views of the surrounding fells and the rushing waters of the two splendid falls.
The walk start from Elterwater, with its popular pub and old bridge over the Great Langdale Beck. You then climb up country lanes to reach Colwith Force Waterfall. The falls 40 feet over several stages�and are surrounded by peaceful woodland. It's a secluded spot with the just the noise of the impressive falls breaking the silence.
Around here you pick up the Cumbria Way long distance trail and descend past Elterwater Park Farm to Skelwith Bridge. Here you will pass the impressive Skelwith Force Falls. Though small the falls are very powerful and can be seen up close from the viewing area. There's also some nice riverside tea rooms here where you can enjoy refreshments before continuing your walk.
The next stage takes you along the River Brathay and then Great Langdale Beck to Elterwater. The beck is very still around here so it's a lovely spot. The route here also uses a National Trust maintained footpath so it's very easy going. There's great views of the Langdale Fells return to Elterwater where you can enjoy a well earned drink in the pub garden...weather permitting!
To extend your walk follow the Cumbria Way south from Colwith Force and you can visit the beautiful Tarn Hows.
The walk up to Loughrigg Tarn starts from Skelwith Bridge so you could also take in this much loved beauty spot if you have time.

Elterwater Waterfalls Walk Ordnance Survey Map - view and print off detailed OS map

Elterwater Waterfalls Walk Open Street Map - view and print off detailed map

Elterwater Waterfalls Walk OS Map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Elterwater Waterfalls Walk Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Pubs/Cafes

Enjoy some refreshments at the Britannia Inn in Elterwater. There's a cosy open fire for winter days and a nice beer garden for fine summer days. The noteworthy pub has an interesting history as it was built approximately 500 years ago as a gentleman's farm house and then converted to an Inn sometime during the 19th century. It's located in a very spot in the little village with a postcode of LA22 9HP.
At Skelwith Bridge you can visit the lovely Chesters by the River cafe. Here you'll find a nice riverside deck where you can sit outside and enjoy lunch on finer days. There's delicious salads, specials, cakes and a shop where you can buy souvenirs. You can find it at postcode LA22 9NW for your sat navs.