Waterfalls around Rushton offer a variety of natural features for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by its river systems and varied terrain, providing settings for both gentle cascades and more challenging routes. These natural landmarks are often integrated into local parks and trails, making them accessible for exploration. The landscape around Rushton supports several distinct waterfall experiences.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Overgrown tracks - suggests walking boots and long trousers
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Very popular spot for hikers and wild swimmers. All routes away go up!
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Absolutely incredible waterfall outside Heaton, typically with few crowds as well.
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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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An old quarry with a beautiful cascade probably only when raining. From Franklin’s Farm just follow the byway road and it’s located on the hillside on your left
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Among the most popular waterfalls in the Rushton area is Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls, known for marking the intersection of three counties and offering clear plunge pools for wild swimming. Another highly regarded spot is Cumberland Clough Waterfall, which is particularly impressive after rainfall. Visitors also appreciate Waterfall Near Heaton for its natural beauty and fewer crowds.
Yes, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is a well-known spot for wild swimming. It features clear plunge pools in the River Dane, making it an excellent place to cool down on a warm day.
The trails leading to waterfalls like Three Shires Head are often described as rough and rocky. While some sections can be fun for mountain biking, hikers should be prepared for uneven surfaces. For Waterfall Near Heaton, tracks can be overgrown, suggesting the need for walking boots and long trousers.
For waterfalls like Cumberland Clough Waterfall and Waterfall at Old Quarry, visiting after rain is recommended. This ensures a more substantial flow and a more impressive display, as they might only be a trickle during drier periods.
While many waterfall routes in the area are rated intermediate to challenging, there are easy hiking routes available in the broader Rushton region. For example, you can find easy hikes like 'The Cloud Summit Trig Point – The Cloud Summit and Trails loop from Timbersbrook' or 'View of Bosley Reservoir – View of the Dam loop from Bosley'. You can explore more options on the Easy hikes around Rushton guide.
Beyond visiting waterfalls, the Rushton area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain biking trails, such as those detailed in the MTB Trails around Rushton guide, or explore running trails, including routes like 'The Roaches – Shining Tor Summit loop from Rushton' from the Running Trails around Rushton guide.
Given the often rough and rocky terrain, especially around Three Shires Head, and potentially overgrown tracks near Waterfall Near Heaton, it's advisable to wear sturdy walking boots. Long trousers are also recommended for protection against vegetation.
Yes, Waterfall Near Heaton is typically less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience while still providing an impressive natural display.
The Rushton area features a variety of waterfall types, including cascades, rapids, and plunge pools. You'll find everything from the clear plunge pools at Three Shires Head to the tumbling waters of Cumberland Clough Waterfall and the beautiful cascade at Waterfall at Old Quarry.
Visitors frequently enjoy the natural beauty and the opportunity for outdoor activities. The clear plunge pools at Three Shires Head are a highlight for wild swimming, and the area is appreciated for its scenic picnic spots. The overall experience of exploring these natural landmarks is highly rated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 390 photos shared.
Yes, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is also recognized as a historical site. The Grade II listed stream bridge marks a significant geographical and historical intersection of three counties: Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire.
Yes, the Rushton area includes waterfalls that are characterized more as rapids or cascades. For example, the Waterfall at Old Quarry is described as a beautiful cascade, particularly after rainfall.


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