Scaleber Force, Waterfall near Settle, England
Scaleber Force is a waterfall near the town of Settle in the Yorkshire Dales National Park in England, dropping over limestone cliffs into a deep pool below. The water comes from Stockdale Beck, a stream that cuts through a narrow rocky gorge before reaching the base.
The gorge formed gradually as Stockdale Beck carved into the limestone over centuries. The area was once used for lime production, as shown by the remains of a kiln still visible near the top of the falls.
The falls sit inside a small woodland of native trees like oak, and the sound of rushing water reaches visitors before the waterfall itself comes into view. Near the top, an old lime kiln still stands, a reminder that this quiet corner once served a working industrial purpose.
Parking is available roadside along High Hill Lane, and from there two stone stiles lead into the woods on a short walk to the falls. The paths can be steep and slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
Visiting just after heavy rain transforms the experience entirely, as the water roars so loudly it can be heard from well before the falls come into view. In dry spells, the flow slows enough to reveal the layered limestone formations that are usually hidden beneath the cascade.
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