The UK is known for many things. Stonehenge, fish and chips, Big Ben and black cabs. What it’s perhaps less known for is its waterfalls, but oh my, have we all been missing out.
It turns out the UK has some beautifully serene spots accompanied by the sound of rushing water that are perfect for a staycation hike.
The best waterfalls to discover on your next trip have been ranked by out door brand Khyam, with a Scottish waterfall taking the top spot.
The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye ranked first in the UK thanks to their crystal clear blue hue.
For those of you brave enough to enter icy Scottish waters, it’s a great spot for wild swimming (if you follow all the safety recommendations). Alternatively if you’d like to keep your toes, the pools make a stunning spot to capture in photos on a picturesque hike.
The walking route to the first main waterfall is about 2.4 km, meaning you don’t have to walk for far for the payout view.
Second on the list and the best English waterfall is High Force in Country Durham, where the stunning River Tees tumbles down the 21-metre high rockface.
For an extra layer of magic, why not try visiting High Force at night? It sits under some of England’s darkest night skies, making it the perfect backdrop for stargazing. Again, safety first!
Aira Force, a 65ft high waterfall in Cumbria, takes the third spot. It’s surrounded by forest and can be admired from a gorgeous little stone bridge which sits directly above it.
The only time an Irish waterfall makes the cut is at spot number six on the list, with Glenariff Forest Park waterfall in Northern Ireland.
For those of you who are fans of nature reserves this one is a must-see, you can look for rare species while walking past serene waterfalls along the Waterfall Walk.
When we think of Cornwall we think of countless beaches and little seaside streets, but hidden in North Cornwall is St Nectan’s Glen waterfall.
It ranks at number nine on the list but that doesn’t make it any less gorgeous. The 60ft waterfall is part of the river Trevillet and is nestled in a temperate Atlantic rainforest.
Last on the list is Steall Falls at Fort William, which is a must-see for Harry Potter fans.
The waterfall is 120 metres high, and is in close proximity to Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain.
And if you needed any more of a reason to book a staycation there, the falls were used as a filming location for a number of HP movies, including Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Nick Roberts, owner and camping expert at Khyam, said: ‘There are so many hidden gems nestled in the UK countryside, and with spring and summer well on the way, the UK’s natural waterfalls are a great destination for anyone hoping to cool off after an afternoon hike.
‘We hope this list helps spark some inspiration and encourage folks to head out and discover some of these natural wonders.’
The best UK waterfalls to visit:
- Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
- High Force, County Durham
- Aira Force, Cumbria
- Aber Falls, Snowdonia
- Ingleton Waterfall Trail, North Yorkshire
- Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland
- Waterfall Country, Brecon Beacons
- Pistyll Rhaeadr, Shrewsbury
- St Nectan’s Glen, North Cornwall
- Steall Falls, Fort William
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