Cotter Force

A short, level path of about 500 metres each way follows Cotterdale Beck through quiet woodland to a series of around six gentle waterfalls, the tallest dropping roughly 1.5 metres. The compact stone surface is around a metre wide and stile-free, ending at a viewing area looking onto the stepped falls and rocky stream. Allow half an hour or so at an easy pace, longer if you want to sit and listen to the water.

From Hawes, take the A684 toward Sedbergh, cross the narrow bridge over the River Ure, then use the small lay-by on the right where the path begins. Space is limited to a handful of cars and can fill on fine weekends and holidays, so an early or late visit gives you the best chance of a spot. There are no toilets at the site; the nearest facilities, cafes and visitor information are in Hawes.

The wooded beck is good ground for dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts, long-tailed tits and the occasional kingfisher, with buzzards sometimes circling overhead. Move slowly and pause at the benches for the best sightings. Keep to the public footpath and stay out of the adjacent hay meadows, which are working farmland. Dogs are welcome on the route, kept under close control around livestock and other visitors.

The falls run stronger after a spell of rain, when the cascades are at their most lively; in drier weather the scene is quieter and gentler. Shade from the trees keeps the gorge cool, so bring a layer even on warm days, and expect wet rock and leaf litter underfoot after showers.