Waterfalls around Leekfrith are situated within the Peak District, offering a range of natural attractions. This region is characterized by rolling hills, moorland, and valleys where rivers and brooks create various cascades. The area provides opportunities for exploring diverse waterfall types, from historic sites to natural formations within cloughs.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Good little stream with many little waterfalls to the main one
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Stunning waterfall at Cumberland Clough, tumbling into Cumberland Brook.
0
0
Overgrown tracks - suggests walking boots and long trousers
0
0
Very popular spot for hikers and wild swimmers. All routes away go up!
1
0
Beyond the well-known spots, you can explore the Waterfall Near Heaton, which offers an incredible experience often with fewer crowds. Another option is the Waterfall at Old Quarry, a beautiful cascade that is particularly impressive after rainfall.
Yes, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is considered a family-friendly adventure. Its clear plunge pools are great for paddling, and the grassy banks provide perfect spots for picnics. The area's mini-trails are also suitable for exploration by families.
Yes, Three Shires Head Stone Bridge and Waterfalls is an excellent spot for wild swimming. The River Dane forms clear plunge pools that are popular for a refreshing dip, especially during warmer months.
The waterfalls are particularly lively and impressive after periods of rainfall. For example, Cumberland Clough Waterfall and Deep Clough Waterfall both have enhanced flows after rain, making them more dynamic spectacles. During drier spells, some waterfalls might be reduced to a trickle.
You'll find a variety of walking routes leading to the waterfalls. Many paths are rough and rocky, requiring appropriate footwear. For example, the routes around Three Shires Head are described as very rough and rocky. You can find numerous running trails around Leekfrith, including routes like "The Roaches loop" or "Layered Sedimentary Rocks – Trig point on The Roaches loop from Leekfrith," which may incorporate waterfall views. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Leekfrith guide.
Yes, the area around Leekfrith offers various cycling and mountain biking opportunities. For instance, the run around Cut-Thorn Hill to Three Shires Head is an entertaining mountain bike ride. You can find detailed routes in the Gravel biking around Leekfrith guide and the Cycling around Leekfrith guide, which include routes like "The Roaches – Thorncliffe Bank Summit loop from Leekfrith."
Three Shires Head is a significant historical site, marking the meeting point of three counties: Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire. It features a beautiful, ancient Grade II listed packhorse bridge under which the River Dane flows. Additionally, near Deep Clough Waterfall, you can find ancient quarries, including Goytsclough Quarry, an old lime works now serving as a nature spot.
The Deep Clough Waterfall, though not a towering drop at 2-3 meters high, is characterized by its mossy steps and is an integral part of the classic Goyt Valley scenery. Its streams feed into the River Goyt, which fills Errwood Reservoir, and the area is surrounded by ancient quarries and offers views of Errwood's deep waters.
The Waterfall Near Heaton is often described as an incredible waterfall with typically few crowds, offering a more tranquil experience compared to more popular spots.
Given that many tracks are rough, rocky, and can be overgrown, it's advisable to wear sturdy walking boots and long trousers. The terrain can be challenging in places, and conditions can vary, especially after rain.
The region is characterized by rolling hills and moorland. The waterfalls themselves are formed by rivers and brooks flowing through valleys and cloughs. For instance, Deep Clough Waterfall is set amidst ancient quarries, and the streams in Deep Clough, Goyt's Clough, and Berry Clough feed into the River Goyt, showcasing the area's natural water systems and geological formations.
While some sections might be suitable for beginners, many of the trails leading to waterfalls around Leekfrith are described as intermediate to challenging due to rocky and rough terrain. It's best to check specific route details before heading out, especially if you are new to hiking.
Visitors particularly enjoy the picturesque settings, the opportunity for wild swimming in clear plunge pools, and the scenic walking routes. The iconic stone bridge at Three Shires Head is a favorite for photographers, and the dynamic flow of waterfalls after rain, like Cumberland Clough Waterfall, is highly appreciated.


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