Elterwater and Skelwith Force
An easy riverside loop past a small lake and two waterfalls, with the Langdale Pikes behind.
- Distance
- 7.2 km
- Ascent
- 170 m
- Time
- 2–2.5 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 156 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Elterwater and Skelwith Force is an easy 7.2 km circular walk with 170 m of ascent, taking 2 to 2.5 hours. It starts at Elterwater village (grid reference NY 327 048). The start can be reached by public transport.
From the green at Elterwater the path follows the River Brathay along the shore of the lake, where the Langdale Pikes stand up across the water, to Skelwith Force, a short, powerful fall by the old slate works. The loop returns past Colwith Force, a taller fall in the woods, and over the fields to the village.
Route
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1
Skelwith Force
Follow the river past Elterwater to Skelwith Force.
-
2
Colwith Force
Return by Colwith Force and the fields.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Elterwater and Skelwith Force take?
- Most walkers take 2–2.5 hours for the 7.2 km route, which has 170 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Elterwater village (grid reference NY 327 048). Car park at Elterwater (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Bus 516 from Ambleside. Check times on Traveline.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Riverside and woodland paths, surfaced in part.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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