Top 12 Waterfalls around Whaley Bridge
Best waterfalls around Whaley Bridge are found in the Peak District, an area characterized by its varied terrain, from rolling hills to steep-sided valleys. This region offers a diverse natural landscape, featuring rivers, cloughs, and reservoirs. The area's geological formations and historical industrial use have shaped many of its water features. Visitors can explore a range of waterfalls, from natural cascades to those influenced by 19th-century mill operations.
Best waterfalls around Whaley Bridge
- The most popular waterfalls is Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls, a viewpoint that marks the intersection of three counties: Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire. This Grade II listed site features double waterfalls and clear plunge pools, making it a popular spot for wild swimming and picnics.
- Another must-see spot is Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall), a waterfall on the River Dean. It is situated in a beautiful setting at the lower end of Clough Pool, with a man-made influence at its top from its use by Ingersley Clough Mill in the 19th century.
- Visitors also love Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir, a natural monument that was one of the UK’s first country parks. This site, originally an estate with a mill and lake, is now a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering diverse habitats and wildlife.
- Whaley Bridge is known for iconic, tranquil, and hidden waterfalls. Visitors can explore a variety of cascades, from easily accessible scenic spots to more challenging routes.
- The waterfalls around Whaley Bridge are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 390 photos shared.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls
Highlight • Viewpoint
The run around cut-thorn hill to here is an entertaining blast, too; not too techy but lots of fun, and it finishes here - one of the best picnic spots for miles.
Enjoy this place for a wild swim, with clear plunge pools and waterfalls here in the River Dane.
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Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir
Highlight • Natural Monument
Today, the park is a local nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. A range of habitats can be found on the 32-acre (12.8 ha) site. Open water, tall fenn, reed swamp, carr and mixed deciduous woodland all provide for the wildlife that make the reserve so vibrant.
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Deep Clough Waterfall
Highlight • Natural
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Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall)
Highlight • Waterfall
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Snake Path and Black Ashop Moor Waterfalls
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
This isn’t a towering drop (about 2–3 meters high, with mossy steps), but it’s part of the classic Goyt Valley scenery, surrounded by ancient quarries and views of Errwood’s deep waters (up to 35m in places). It’s often encountered en route to Goytsclough Quarry, an old lime works turned nature spot.
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This highlight is positioned at a viewing point for the waterfall. If you wish to actually stand next to the waterfall you would need to head down to the river, carefully cross the river and then carefully make your way along the river bank to the waterfall. When I did this we hadn't had much rainfall and so the water levels were very low. So, this access may vary depending on the water level of the river at any given time.
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The streams in Deep Clough, Goyt's Clough and Berry Clough all flow into the River Goyt which then fills Errwood Reservoir. The streams are lively after rainfall and there are some good waterfalls to be found in the steep sided valleys.
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This is a small but impressive waterfall on the River Dean. It is in a beautiful setting at the lower end of Clough Pool. It has a certain amount of man-made influence, as the top of it appears to be built on to a natural waterfall to create the mill pond above it. It was used by Ingersley Clough Mill back in the nineteenth century. This is simply a delightful scenic spot.
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Very popular spot for hikers and wild swimmers. All routes away go up!
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Definitely not as frequented as some of the other paths in this area, this path is boggy and wet underfoot in places. It gives you a great view of the spectacular northern edge of Kinder Scout however.
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This gets very busy, especially in the summer months with people wanting a dip. Get there early if you want the place to yourself!
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Quite a landmark, the Three Shire Heads is found at the point on Axe Edge Moor where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet. The packhorse bridge and small waterfall make for a photogenic setting and very popular wild swimming (or at least, a wild dip!) spot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls around Whaley Bridge are best for wild swimming?
For wild swimming, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is a popular choice. It features clear plunge pools in the River Dane, making it an excellent spot for a refreshing dip, especially during warmer months.
Are there any family-friendly waterfalls or parks near Whaley Bridge?
Yes, Etherow Country Park Lake and Weir is very family-friendly. It's one of the UK’s first country parks, offering diverse habitats and wildlife, and is a local nature reserve. It provides a great setting for families to explore.
What kind of historical significance do the waterfalls in this area have?
Many waterfalls in the Whaley Bridge area have historical connections to the region's industrial past. For example, Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall) has a man-made influence at its top, designed to create a mill pond for Ingersley Clough Mill in the 19th century. Similarly, Etherow Country Park was originally an estate with a mill and lake.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around Whaley Bridge?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, challenging mountain biking trails, and gravel biking routes. For more details on hiking, check out the easy hikes around Whaley Bridge. If you're into cycling, explore the MTB Trails or Gravel biking routes in the region.
Are there any hidden or less-known waterfalls worth exploring?
Yes, Waterfall Swallet is a lesser-known, hidden gem located within a landslip. It requires some effort to reach as there isn't a clear path, but it rewards visitors with a unique and secluded natural beauty.
What is the tallest waterfall in the wider Peak District area?
Kinder Downfall, though a bit further afield from Whaley Bridge, is the tallest waterfall in the Peak District. It offers a challenging hike and can range from a gentle trickle to a powerful cascade depending on rainfall. On windy days, the water can even appear to blow backwards.
What should I expect when visiting Deep Clough Waterfall?
Deep Clough Waterfall is located where several streams converge into the River Goyt. The streams become particularly lively after rainfall, creating significant waterfalls within the steep-sided valleys. While there's a viewing point, reaching the actual base of the waterfall may require careful navigation, depending on water levels.
Are there any tranquil or less-frequented waterfall routes?
Crowden Clough Scramble and Waterfalls offers a more tranquil experience. It's one of the less frequented routes leading up to the Kinder Scout plateau, and the waterfall is easily accessible just off the main path, providing a quieter alternative for exploration.
What are the best times to visit the waterfalls around Whaley Bridge?
The waterfalls are particularly lively and impressive after rainfall, which enhances their flow. During warmer months, spots like Three Shires Head are popular for picnics and wild swimming. Paths can become muddy, so consider recent weather conditions when planning your visit.
What are the trail conditions like around Three Shires Head?
The paths around Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls can become quite muddy, especially after rain. The four paths leading to it are described as very rough and rocky. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for challenging terrain, particularly if mountain biking.
Can I find any waterfalls with unique natural features or settings?
Yes, Ingersley Vale Waterfall (Waulkmill Waterfall) is set in a beautiful location at the lower end of Clough Pool. Although small, its impressive flow and the picturesque surroundings make it a delightful scenic spot.
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