Take a leisurely walk from Stainforth Force to Settle with the soothing sounds of the River Ribble guiding your way. This 2 hour riverside route will make you slow down to soak up tranquil beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Looking for a scenic and easy ramble in the Yorkshire Dales? A riverside walk either to or from Settle to take in the beauty of the tumbling Stainforth Force is a must!
This well marked footpath follows the River Ribble for 2.8 miles (4.5km) one way, offering a gentle and mostly flat hour long walk. It’s perfect for small children or those who prefer an easier route. You can turn it into a longer walk by retracing your steps back, making it a 5.6-mile (9km) round trip.
The Stainforth Force river walk has basically everything a good walk in the Yorkshire Dales should have. A cascading waterfall, tiny stone bridges, dry stone walls criss-crossing green rolling hills and history-rich picturesque stone villages.
In autumn, as well as the beautiful autumnal colours from the trees, salmon can be seen jumping up the waterfall to reach their spawning grounds – a phenomenal natural spectacle!
If you’re looking for an easy and pretty walk around the Settle or Giggleswick area, it would be a shame to miss this very lovely riverside stroll. Here’s everything you need to know!
Stainforth Force River Walk Key Stats:
- Starting location: Settle or Stainforth Force, Yorkshire Dales
- Length: 2.8 miles / 4.5 km (one way) or 5.6 miles / 9 km (round trip)
- Duration: 1 hour (one way) or 2 hours (round trip)
- Type: Out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, mostly flat
- Difficulty Level: Easy
About Stainforth Force Bridge
Approaching Stainforth Force from the Dog Hill Brow road, you’ll notice signs saying the tiny former monastic road is unsuitable for caravans. When you approach the little stone bridge crossing the River Ribble via a very steep small road, it’s clear why!
Only just wide enough for a small car to slowly squeeze through, the arched bridge was originally built in 1675 by a local Quaker for pack horses to travel between York and Lancaster.
For a bridge nearly 350 years old, the charming structure is in remarkably good condition. The grade II listed structure is now owned by the National Trust and offers access, and an attractive backdrop to Stainforth Force.
About Stainforth Force Waterfall
Just through the wooden gate beside the bridge is access to Stainforth Force. It’s not a massively impressive waterfall, but the undulating form with water flowing over a series of small limestone plateaus (otherwise known as a ‘stepped waterfall’), is very attractive.
The largest cascade is at the bottom and only around 4 metres high, with a large, deep pool below it.
Though the waterfall is somewhat hidden and not well signposted, it’s location next to a caravan park and small touristy Dales villages means it gets popular in summer, especially for picnics and BBQs on the grassy bank beside it.
Stainforth Force is a popular place for wild swimming too. For those brave enough, you can jump or dive into the bottom pool from the rock ledges. Though after heavy rain, the water crashes quite ferociously creating a sort of whirlpool at the bottom, so it’s best avoided in such conditions.
You will need to watch young children here as there is no barrier to the waterfall, and it is right next to the grass which is somewhat disconcerting.
Stainforth Force is one of four waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales with the River Ribble as its source. Others on the Ribble include Force Gill Waterfall, Scaleber Force and Catrigg Force. Stainforth is the lowest of the four in terms of height, with the last cascade only a few metres high.
A Description of the Stainforth Force Walk
If starting at the waterfall to walk towards Settle, be aware parking is extremely limited. There is only enough space for a couple of cars beyond the historic stone bridge, so you may need to park further down the road or in Stainforth Village. If you walk from Stainforth, it will only take around 5 minutes to reach the waterfall.
In the town of Settle, there are plenty of free and paid car parking options, though in summer the small market town can get packed.
Following the footpath alongside the riverbank will mainly take you through fields and grassy pastures. There’s always an interesting or scenic view to gaze at on the opposite side of the riverbank too.
Aside from its scenic beauty, Stainforth Force is also a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for dippers, herons, and kingfishers along the riverbank, which are common birds found in this area.
Throughout the walk in true Yorkshire style, you’ll be required to step over a variety of characterful stiles to get between fields. Some are wood, but my favourite are the beautiful stone ones with seemingly levitating stone steps. The stiles and walls really are incredible for standing the test of time in the rugged and wild Yorkshire weather!
At one point you’ll reach a metal bridge across the River Ribble, which you’ll need to cross, ensuring you stay in the direction of the river and don’t walk away from it.
No matter which way you come, you’ll need to pass right through the small settlement of cottages and immediately turn left (or right!) after the last house, to continue on the marked footpath.
Just behind the Langcliffe Caravan Park is a large pond (or small lake – however you look at it!) with reeds and surrounded by wonderful foliage.
Though it’s around here that you’ll reach the least pleasant part of the walk – passing beside a disused commercial building, which appears to be a former mill and a company with haulage lorries in the yard. That being said, there is some old, interesting machinery to observe on the abandoned mill side.
A meander down the lane, away from the caravan park, will join you to the main B road into Settle. Take care walking along here!
Just before the town you’ll walk past a very beautiful former cotton mill, now called Watershed Mill. The centuries-old building is now home to an outdoor clothing store, a cafe, visitor centre and an independent, family-run farm shop.
It’s especially well worth looking at Ribblesdale Farm Shop‘s selection of local Yorkshire produce, including meats, pantry goods and a decent array of locally distilled gin and brewed beer.
A couple of minutes later on the same side of the road is Settle Hydro, a community owned hydroelectric station which has been generating clean, renewable energy since 2010. It’s worth popping over to have a look before turning left at the junction to walk into the centre of Settle.
As you approach the town, note the beautiful arched railway bridge and the 19th century Settle Parish Church with its iconic Dales backdrop of rolling hills!
Explore Settle
Whether you start or end this walk in Settle, it’s well worth provisioning some extra time for some exploring this vibrant town.
Settle has roots dating back to the 7th century when it was believed to have been established by the Angles. Its prominence grew during the medieval period as a hub for wool production and trade.
Settle is also known for its involvement in the Industrial Revolution, particularly with the construction of cotton mills in the 18th century. The arrival of the Settle-Carlisle Railway in 1875 further boosted the town’s development, making it a key stop for commerce and tourism in the Yorkshire Dales.
The rich history of Settle has had a significant impact on its architecture, blending medieval, Georgian, and industrial influences. But there are plenty of fantastic things to do aside from just walking around to admire the buildings!
Visit the laneway antique stores, the Museum of North Craven Life, the intriguing ‘Listening Gallery’ in an old telephone box and much more! Plus there are an array of great bakeries, cafes, restaurants and pubs for a bite to eat.
A day trip to Settle, including a riverside walk to or from Stainforth Force, is simply a wonderful way to enjoy a popular part of Yorkshire Dales National Park. Have you got it on your radar?
Stainforth Force to Settle Riverside Walk FAQs:
Is the Stainforth Force to Settle walk suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is suitable for children who would have the capacity to walk 9km, especially as it’s relatively flat and follows a clear path along the River Ribble. However, young children should be supervised near the waterfall and river, as there are no barriers and the terrain can be slippery in places.
How long does the Stainforth Force to Settle walk take?
The walk from Stainforth Force to Settle (or vice versa) is approximately 2.8 miles (4.5km) one way, and typically takes around 1 hour to complete at a gentle pace. If done as a round trip, it would take about 2 hours.
Is there parking available at Stainforth Force or Settle?
Parking at Stainforth Force is very limited, with space for only a couple of small cars near the historic stone bridge. Settle, on the other hand, is a larger town offering ample free and paid parking options, though it can get busy during summer.
Can I swim at Stainforth Force?
Yes, Stainforth Force is a popular spot for wild swimming. The deep pool at the base of the waterfall is suitable for confident cold water swimmers, but care should be taken after heavy rain as the water can become fast and turbulent.
Is the Stainforth Force to Settle walk suitable for dogs?
Absolutely! Dogs are welcome on the walk, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when crossing farmers’ fields with livestock. The path is mostly open countryside, so be sure to bring fresh water and snacks for your dog.
All images are credited to the author.