Lodore Falls

Lodore Falls is a waterfall in Borrowdale that plunges roughly 30 meters down through a narrow rocky gap. The water flows from Watendlath Tarn above and continues into the Borrowdale Valley below.

William Sawrey Gilpin recorded an early visit in 1772, noting how the stream fell between two steep rock faces. Interest in the spot grew when Robert Southey published his famous poem decades later.

Robert Southey's 1820 poem uses rhythm and word sounds to capture how the water tumbles and crashes. The verses made this spot known to readers who came hoping to hear the sounds described in his lines.

You can reach it by a path alongside the road with parking available at the National Trust Kettlewell lot. The falls sit on private land, so stay on marked paths and respect any access guidelines posted at the entrance.

The oak woodlands around this spot hold protection status due to their environmental and scientific value. This makes the area notable for its plant life as well as the falling water.

Location: Borrowdale

Height: 30 m

GPS coordinates: 54.55785,-3.13805

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50