Waterfalls around Irton With Santon are a notable feature within the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. This area offers a landscape characterized by deep ravines and lush woodlands. The region provides access to various natural attractions, including prominent waterfalls that are integrated into local walking routes. Exploring these natural features offers insight into the diverse geology of the Lake District.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Take care here. This is an accident black spot of the Lake District. On a cloudy descent is is far too easy to get lost and end up in what looks like a sheltered gill. Check out the conditions in advance. Have a good map and compass (know how to use them) and visit Wasdale Mountain Rescue website for some great advice so not to get caught up here.
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Brilliant little scramble, very safe and managable 😊
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This is a short but high ascent of a scramble called Foxes Rake. It is a relatively easy scramble but if wet would be very slippy. This takes you up to a plateau where Foxes Tarn should be if not in drought (it was) and then you can choose if you want to play and scramble again up stagger up what was grass banking as such. Once at the top you can tap out on Scafell Cairn the 2nd highest Fell in the Lakes.
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Foxes Rake up to the tarn is the “easy” way to Scafell from Mickledore but it isn’t without its challenges. In summer it is usually dry so is a straightforward scramble up. In winter it can become a serious undertaking under snow, and without snow the water can turn to ice which persists because the sun never gets here much in winter. At least it is easier than some of the other alternatives.
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fantastic scramble along waterfalls, good to have waterproof boots
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Beyond the well-known spots, you can discover Cam Spout Waterfall, which offers a good scramble to the right side of the ghyll, leading towards Mickledore. Another interesting feature is Tongue Pot, a dramatic emerald pool beneath a roaring waterfall in the River Esk, known for wild swimming.
Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider Foxes Rake (Foxes Tarn Gully). This gorge serves as a scramble route between Scafell Pike and Sca Fell, following a stream with waterfalls. It requires an easy scramble, and komoot community tips suggest it's best to stick to the gully itself and be prepared for wet hands and slippery rocks.
The waterfalls, such as Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall, are most impressive after rainfall. This ensures a strong flow, making the cascades more dramatic and visually striking. Visiting during or shortly after wet weather will enhance your experience.
While specific family-friendly waterfall walks aren't detailed, the area around Irton With Santon offers various easy hikes. Many local walks, including a dog-friendly circular route along the Esk river, lead to Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall, which could be suitable for families depending on the specific trail conditions. You can find more options for easy hikes in the region on the Easy hikes around Irton With Santon guide.
The Irton With Santon area, nestled within the Lake District National Park, is characterized by deep ravines (ghylls), lush woodlands, and rivers. You'll encounter dramatic gorges, such as the one housing Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall, and river sections like Brown Tongue Stream and Waterfall, which offers views along the route up Scafell.
Yes, Tongue Pot is a legendary spot for wild swimming. It forms a long emerald pool beneath a roaring waterfall in a cleft of the River Esk. It's known for its clear pools and is a popular choice for a picnic and a refreshing dip, with daringly high jumps possible where the water is around 5 meters deep.
The region around Irton With Santon offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents. For mountain enthusiasts, there are routes like the Scafell Pike Summit loop. Cyclists can also find routes, including those around Wast Water. For more details, check out the Mountain Hikes around Irton With Santon and Cycling around Irton With Santon guides.
Given the often wet and slippery conditions, especially near waterfalls and after rain, it's advisable to wear waterproof boots with good grip. For routes involving scrambles, like Foxes Rake, waterproof gloves can also be beneficial to protect your hands from wet rocks.
While specific public transport routes directly to individual waterfalls are not detailed, Irton With Santon is within the Lake District National Park. Local public transport options, such as buses or the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, serve the wider Eskdale valley and surrounding villages, which can provide access points to various trailheads leading to waterfalls. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The villages surrounding Irton With Santon, such as Santon Bridge and Eskdale, offer amenities including cafes and pubs. These can be found along popular walking routes or at the start/end points of trails, providing opportunities for refreshments after exploring the waterfalls.
Visitors frequently appreciate the dramatic natural beauty and the serene atmosphere. For instance, the idyllic location of Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall, despite its steep and slippery access, is considered well worth the effort. The opportunity for fantastic scrambles along waterfalls and the breathtaking views, even on cloudy days, are also highly valued by the komoot community.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Irton With Santon: