England’s tallest single-drop waterfall is a popular attraction for those who love to explore the great outdoors – and it’s just as stunning as it is impressive
The feature makes an appearance in an iconic movie scene (Image: DrewRawcliffe via Getty Images)
Yorkshire is a treasure trove of hidden gems, and this stunning waterfall is no exception, attracting visitors with its unique features that set it apart in the country.
Nestled within the Yorkshire Dales, behind the tranquil village of Hardraw, lies the renowned Hardraw Force. It holds the title of England’s highest single-drop waterfall, presenting a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The water cascades from an impressive height of 100 feet, equivalent to 30 metres, maintaining a single unbroken drop throughout.
Visitors from far and wide can marvel at this natural wonder by strolling through a picturesque valley, even stepping behind the veil of tumbling water. But it’s not just its towering height that puts this waterfall on the map. Many will recognise its scenic backdrop from a well-known film.
Hardraw Force graces an iconic scene in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, the 1991 classic featuring Kevin Costner. In a memorable sequence, Maid Marian, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, observes Robin Hood bathing beneath this very waterfall.
The scene was shot from the surrounding gorge, which encircles the fall like an amphitheatre and forms part of the grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn.
The site is under the stewardship of the same owner as the quaint pub, who has worked hard to restore the area to its natural splendour for visitors to appreciate.
The grounds span a whopping 15 acres, complete with a car park for visitors and a well-maintained Heritage Centre that serves as the gateway to the stunning water feature.
Entry is priced at £4 per person, with discounts on offer for families and senior citizens. Dogs are welcome too, provided they’re well-behaved, and the path has been deliberately gravelled to facilitate wheelchair access.
A recent guest at Hardraw Force shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, saying: “Excellent place to visit, especially after rainfall. An easy walk and a harder one if you are fit. Dogs are welcome too. Go early if you can, and you may see a red squirrel.”
Another visitor shared: “The waterfall itself was spectacular. A lovely flow of water into the pool below, this provided a lovely picturesque setting for everyone to enjoy. Absolutely worth visiting for the beautiful scenery.”
Meanwhile, another guest wrote: “Visited the waterfall today, cold but had blue skies and sunshine, which made the waterfall even more spectacular. It’s privately owned and costs £4 p/p which goes to maintaining the falls and the gorgeous surrounding area.”
They added: “It has a small on-site cafe and toilets, which were very clean. The walks around the waterfall are easy to a little more challenging, we had stayed at the lovely Green Dragon Inn that backs straight onto the entrance for the waterfall.”