Best Peak District Waterfalls to Visit

Why you’ll love this

Discover dramatic waterfalls across the beautiful Peak District
Hidden woodland cascades and breathtaking moorland scenery
Scenic walks, perfect for families, hikers and photographers
Explore iconic falls, including Kinder Downfall and Lumsdale
Luxury cottages near the Peak District’s finest waterfalls

The Peak District is famous for its rolling hills, dramatic gritstone edges and charming market towns, but it’s also home to some of England’s most spectacular waterfalls. From hidden woodland cascades and historic mill ruins to powerful moorland falls and limestone wonders, the national park offers countless opportunities to discover nature at its most impressive.

Whether you’re planning a scenic stroll, a challenging hike or a family-friendly day out, these are some of the best Peak District waterfalls to add to your itinerary during your luxury cottage escape.

Lumsdale Falls, Matlock

Widely regarded as one of the most atmospheric waterfalls in the Peak District, Lumsdale Falls combines natural beauty with fascinating industrial heritage. Hidden within a wooded valley near Matlock, a series of waterfalls tumble past the ruins of former mills and water-powered workshops, creating a magical setting that feels untouched by time.

The circular walk through Lumsdale Valley is relatively short, making it a popular choice for families, photographers and those looking for a peaceful escape. Visit after rainfall to see the cascades at their most dramatic.

Stay nearby:

Located near Ashbourne on the southern edge of the Peak District, these luxurious properties offer easy access to Matlock, Carsington Water and many of the region’s most beautiful walking routes.

Three Shires Head, Axe Edge Moor

Nestled at the meeting point of Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire, Three Shires Head is one of the Peak District’s most picturesque waterfall locations. Here, the River Dane flows beneath historic packhorse bridges before cascading into a series of clear pools surrounded by open countryside.

Popular with walkers, photographers and wild swimmers, this tranquil spot feels wonderfully remote despite being accessible from several nearby villages. It’s an ideal destination for a summer picnic or a peaceful afternoon exploring the western Peak District.

Stay nearby:

Situated in and around Foolow, these charming cottages provide an excellent base for exploring the western Peak District, including Three Shires Head, Monsal Trail and the Hope Valley.

Kinder Downfall, Derbyshire

No list of Peak District waterfalls would be complete without Kinder Downfall. As the tallest waterfall in the national park, it plunges dramatically from the Kinder Scout plateau and is one of the area’s most iconic natural landmarks.

The walk to Kinder Downfall is a rewarding adventure, taking visitors across rugged moorland and some of the Peak District’s most breathtaking scenery. On particularly windy days, the waterfall can appear to blow upwards, creating an unforgettable sight.

Stay nearby:

Perfectly positioned for exploring the Dark Peak, these properties offer easy access to Kinder Scout, Edale and the surrounding network of walking trails.

Dovestone Waterfall, Saddleworth Moor

Nestled within the dramatic landscapes surrounding Dovestone Reservoir, this picturesque waterfall is one of the closest waterfall walks to Rye Top Farm. Streams tumble over gritstone rocks against a backdrop of rugged moorland, creating a peaceful setting that showcases the wild beauty of the Dark Peak.

The wider Dovestone area is one of the most popular walking destinations in the northern Peak District, with routes leading to Yeoman Hey Reservoir, Greenfield Reservoir and the surrounding moors. Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll or a longer hike, Dovestone offers spectacular scenery at every turn.

Stay nearby:

Rye Top Farm

Sleeping up to 14 guests, Rye Top Farm enjoys an enviable location on the edge of Saddleworth Moor with direct access to some of the Peak District’s finest walking routes, reservoirs and waterfall trails. Dovestone Reservoir is just a short drive away, making it one of the best-placed properties in the collection for exploring the northern Peak District.

Middle Black Clough Waterfall, Glossop

Tucked away within a steep-sided valley near Holme, Middle Black Clough Waterfall is one of the Peak District’s hidden gems. Water cascades down a striking rock face before continuing through a landscape of heather-clad moorland and rugged countryside.

Less visited than some of the national park’s better-known waterfalls, it offers a sense of tranquillity and wilderness that makes it particularly appealing for walkers looking to escape the crowds.

Stay nearby:

Both properties provide excellent access to the northern and central Peak District, making them ideal bases for exploring some of the region’s lesser-known beauty spots.

Waterfall Swallet, Derbyshire

One of the Peak District’s newest recognised natural attractions, Waterfall Swallet is a fascinating geological phenomenon located within the White Peak. Following periods of heavy rainfall, water plunges dramatically into a limestone sinkhole, creating a spectacular waterfall that highlights the unique underground landscape of the national park.

The surrounding countryside offers excellent walking opportunities, with nearby dales, caves and limestone valleys providing plenty to explore.

Stay nearby:

These centrally located properties place guests within easy reach of the White Peak’s most fascinating natural attractions, including Waterfall Swallet, Peak Cavern and the beautiful limestone dales.