12 minute read
The Wonder of Waterfalls
Standing by a waterfall, watching the endlessly falling whitewater and listening to that rushing, roaring, thundering sound, in awe of its power, is an uplifting experience. And it’s beneficial, too.
The air around waterfalls has the highest concentration of negative ions found in nature. These are atmospheric molecules charged with electricity, and exposure to them can ease stress, regulate mood and even reduce depression.
Watching the unceasing cascade is mesmerising, as is the ‘white noise’ sound, used in sleep apps for its soothing and relaxing properties. Although the water flow may not be at its fiercest in the summer months, it’s the best time to be spritzed with that fresh, cooling spray – and to enter the world behind the waterfall and gaze out through that misty curtain.
Scotland
On the Isle of Skye beneath the Black Cuillins are the famous Fairy Pools. This series of small falls are renowned for colour and clarity: turquoise so clear that you can pick out mossy pebbles in the depths. Some are swimmable – brrr! Further north is Mealt Falls, which cliff- dives from Loch Mealt to the rocky coast below. From here you can also see Kilt Rock, with its pleated-effect basalt folds. Dream Escape will also take you off the beaten path to more peaceful falls without the crowds, such as Glen Brittle and Sligachan Waterfalls - or on a boat charter to explore the stunning coastline of the Isle of Skye from the water on a luxury sea tour.
We may have poet Robert Burns to thank for the gorgeously wooded landscape at the Falls of Bruar at the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park, in Perthshire. When he visited in 1787, Burns found the surroundings somewhat bare and was inspired to write, 'The Humble Petition of Bruar Water' to the landowner, the 4th Duke of Atholl. Written from the water’s viewpoint, it entreats: ‘Would then my noble master please/To grant my highest wishes/He’ll shade my banks wi’ tow’ring trees/ And bonie spreading bushes.’ The Duke took Burns’s advice and, in an innovative forerunner of modern seed bombs, he fired Scots pine and larch seeds from the opposite bank from a cannon. The lowest fall of peat-brown water through the forested rocky gorge has an arched stone bridge, and a natural rock span just downstream.
Located by the Falls of Bruar is the most famous Scottish country clothing brand, House of Bruar, which houses a fabulous food hall – perfect for picnic essentials.
Around the Falls of Clyde in this species-rich wooded gorge, near New Lanark, southeast of Glasgow, you might spot kingfishers, dippers and ravens, with swooping bats, badgers and even otters. But the main attractions are the four waterfalls within four miles. At 88ft high, Corra Linn is the second one you’ll see, and the most spectacular. It was described by William Wordsworth as ‘the Clyde’s most majestic daughter’.
Just upstream is Scotland’s first hydroelectric power station, harnessing the power of the falls to power textile mills in New Lanark, completed in 1927.
Northern Ireland
Near Ballymena, Co Antrim, in Glenariff, largest of the nine glens of Antrim, are no fewer than nine viewing points for three waterfalls on a choice of four walking routes (Glenariff's Ess-na-Larach waterfall pictured below). Wooden fenced boardwalks and flights of steps allow close-up views of the falls, where white froth and foam contrasts against the dark waters, the lush foliage lining the gorge; and possibly even local wildlife, such as red squirrels, hen harriers and Irish hares. At the top of the walkable area, enjoy more expansive views down to the Irish Sea and across it to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland.
North England
Thundering 65ft down a craggy rock face, Aira Force in Cumbria is formed by Aira Beck (stream) making its way down the fells to Ullswater. ‘Force’ or ‘foss’ comes from the Old Norse word for waterfall. Dream Escape will take you on a guided walk along the waterfall trail for the best view of the walls and the two stone bridges arching over the plummeting water. Around a quarter of a mile higher up is another fall, High Force. Or you might prefer to discover the hidden waterfalls of the
Lake District, Windermere's Stock Ghyll Force and Skelwith Force during a picnic adventure with native Lakeland Fell ponies, following part of an old packhorse route through meadows, woods and fell.
Much more impressive than its more westerly namesake is County Durham’s High Force. This awe-inspiring 70ft cascade, where the River Tees plunges over a vertical cliff of blocky whinstone, is the UK’s largest volume of water falling over an unbroken drop, when in full spate. The stunning view was painted by JMW Turner in 1816.
The north side is privately owned, and Dream Escape will arrange for you to enjoy its mighty power and unforgettable beauty with special out-of-hours access to the waterfall.
The easy-to-follow walk to Hareshaw Linn (‘linn’ is old dialect for waterfall), near Bellingham in Northumberland National Park, passes through a formerly industrial landscape, now reclaimed by nature. The path winds up the damp, deep gorge, lush with ferns, mosses, liverworts and lichen cloaking damp boulders and branches, crossing Hareshaw Burn, a tributary of the North Tyne, via six bridges, offering beautiful views of the bubbling burn beneath. By the sixth bridge, there is a tree stump studded with coins, for good luck. Follow the sound around the bend, down stone-slab steps to the Linn, tumbling down over the 30ft sandstone cliff to the pool below. The Peak District National Park has plenty of waterfalls. Fair Brook flows down the lower slopes of Kinder Scout, the region’s highest point at 2800ft (famed for the ‘mass trespass’ of 1932, when walkers took to the hill to protest against lack of access), with several waterfalls as well as natural pools – some deep enough for a dip if you fancy a wild swim as well as a walk. Kinder Downfall is the region’s highest waterfall, at 98ft. Its flow can be temperamental, but in windy conditions, it appears to flow upwards!
South West England
On the North Devon coast near Hartland, and accessible on foot via the South West Coast Path, you can enjoy the rare, spectacular sight of white, tumbling waters on a coastal cliff. In a ruggedly beautiful area of hanging valleys and high cliffs, Speke’s Mill Mouth waterfall drops 157ft over a sheer cliff edge, then tumbles downward over boulders onto the rock-slabbed beach to meet the sea.
At the head of the Bride Valley in Dorset lie the thatched cottages of the picturesque village of Littlebredy. (It really is little, too: population around 100.) As part of Bridehead House’s 19th-century garden redesign, the river was dammed to create a lake, and from here it flows through the grounds and then gushes noisily over a drop (pictured above). Enjoy a picnic on the expansive adjoining grassy area, then paddle in the river. Scramble up behind the fall to gaze over the lake and snap the perfect shot from the little stone footbridge behind.
Palace, designed by the renownedly naturalistic landscape gardener Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in the 1760s. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it forms part of a complex dam structure at the western end of the lake he created across the estate, with a delicate arched bridge offering the perfect photo opportunity. Home to the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim is the former home of Sir Winston Churchill, who was born here.
Wales
In Bannau Brycheiniog (previously known as the Brecon Beacons) National Park is an area known as ‘waterfall country’, with Britain's greatest concentration of cascades, caves and gorgeous gorges. The Four Falls Trail takes in Sgwd (Welsh for ‘waterfall’) Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr and Sgwd yr Eira. The last, which means ‘waterfall of snow’, is the best known, most popular, and the most photographed – not least because you can experience the thrill of walking behind the cascading curtain of water. Be prepared: you’ll almost certainly get wet on the rough and slippery path used by sheep farmers – but it’s worth it!
Pistyll Rhaeadr, meaning ‘spring of the waterfall’, lies in the Berwyn Mountains, just inside Wales, in Powys, west of Oswestry and Shrewsbury at the end of a narrow singletrack road. At 240ft high, it’s often hailed as Britain’s highest singledrop waterfall, although some argue that the drop is in three stages. Either way it’s a breathtaking sight: a narrow white ribbon falling behind a water-hewn stone arch. From the top you can see Snowdonia to the west and the hills of Shropshire to the east.
Private Experiences
Five of our favourite private tours
Following the thrill of standing in awe of a cascading waterfall, Dream Escape will arrange a grand private tour of a castle or stately home, steeped in centuries of history.
THE BOWES MUSEUM
Located in Barnard Castle, County Durham, the Bowes Museum was built in the 19th century by John Bowes and his wife Josephine, who were both art collectors. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that resembles a French château and has a stunning garden.
Visit for: Its eclectic collection of antiques, curios, art, and relics. One of its most famous exhibits is the Silver Swan, a life-size automaton that is over 200 years old and still in working order.
ALNWICK CASTLE
Dream Escape will arrange for you to visit this historic castle located in the town of Alnwick, in Northumberland. It is the seat of the Duke of Northumberland, and has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years. Dream Escape will arrange a private visit to The Alnwick Garden with the head gardener to see their beautiful collection of gardens, fountains, and water features, followed by a delicious one-of-a-kind lunch in The Treehouse; a unique dining experience in a treehouse located in the Alnwick Garden.
Visit for: A private broomstick flying lesson for children –inspired by the Harry Potter movies, which were filmed at the castle. Kids can dress up in wizard robes and learn to fly on a broomstick just like Harry Potter.
BLENHEIM PALACE
Dream Escape will arrange a private visit to this monumental country house located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. Blenheim is one of the largest and most impressive stately homes in the country, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace provides a splendid backdrop to the beautiful gardens and grounds that surround it, and the Orangery (a remarkable building with large windows overlooking the Italian Garden) offers private lunch and afternoon tea experiences.
Visit for: Exploring the grounds in style, during a private buggy rides with a knowledgeable guide. During the ride, you will hear the fascinating history of the palace and its grounds – an excellent way to see the extensive parkland and gardens while enjoying a comfortable and informative ride.
ATHOLL ESTATES
This large estate located in the Scottish Highlands covers an area of over 145,000 acres and includes several villages, forests, mountains, and rivers. The estate is owned by the Murray family, who have been the Dukes of Atholl since the 18th century. Atholl Estates is known for its rich history, extraordinary natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and hunting, and also explore the estate's many historical landmarks and buildings, including Blair Castle, which has been the ancestral home of the Murray family for over 700 years.
Visit for: Private tours of Atholl Estates with a ranger, which is a wonderful way to explore the incredible scenery and wildlife that the estate has to offer.
DUNLUCE CASTLE
Known as Northern Ireland's most famous castle Dunluce Castle has a long history of destruction and has been the site of many battles over the centuries. Located in County Antrim the castle was built in the 13th century and has been home to many prominent families over the years. In addition to its rich history, Dunluce Castle also offers a Taste Causeway Hamper, which is a must-try for food lovers. Plus, visitors can also enjoy a 700ml Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery Edition while taking in the breathtaking views.
Visit for: Private access arranged by Dream Escape, granted from Lord Antrim. Explore the castle's rich history and learn about the amazing Antrim family history at this iconic site, where Ulster was formed in 1584.
Did you know?
Experience the magic of the film & music industry
Waterfalls in the UK and Ireland have always been a popular attraction for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers. But what many people don't know is that these waterfalls have also been used as filming locations for movies, TV shows, and music videos. High Force waterfall, located in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in County Durham has been used as a filming location for Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, and the 2015 adaptation of Macbeth. Swallow Falls in Wales featured in the 1967 James Bond film You Only Live Twice, and the TV series Doctor Who The music video for the song 'Run' by Snow Patrol was filmed at the Gobbins Cliff Path in Ireland, and its impressive waterfall. 'The One' by Kodaline was filmed at Powerscourt Waterfall in Ireland; and 'No Roots' by Alice Merton was filmed at the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. enquiries@dreamescape.co.uk
Rosie Peattie
Client Relationship Manager
There’s something incredibly peaceful, relaxing and mesmerising about watching a waterfall. To reach one normally involves a hike, but the reward is great as you walk across a heather moorland to the base of a cliff, through a wood, or crest a summit to be confronted with Mother Nature at her very best. We are so lucky in the UK and Ireland to have hundreds of waterfalls. Many have fascinating names with tales to tell, from the Gaping Gill to the Wailing Widow. Step on set in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves at Hardraw Force, Yorkshire, or walk behind the Cascade Waterfall at Bowood House, Wiltshire – a great adventure for children before boarding the pirate ship.
Words | Adrienne Wyper
