Yorkshire is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and hidden treasures, with one natural wonder standing out as both a record-holder and a cinematic star. Tucked away behind the peaceful village of Hardraw in the Yorkshire Dales, Hardraw Force claims the title of England's highest single-drop waterfall, offering a majestic display that captivates outdoor enthusiasts and film buffs alike.
A Natural Marvel with Cinematic Fame
This stunning waterfall plunges from an impressive height of 100 feet, equivalent to 30 metres, in a single, unbroken cascade that creates a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Visitors can embark on a scenic stroll through a picturesque valley to witness this natural wonder up close, even stepping behind the curtain of tumbling water for a unique perspective. However, it's not just the sheer height that makes Hardraw Force remarkable; many will recognise its dramatic backdrop from a beloved Hollywood film.
Iconic Film Scene and Historic Setting
Hardraw Force features prominently in an iconic scene from the 1991 classic Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner. In a memorable sequence, Maid Marian, played by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, observes Robin Hood bathing beneath this very waterfall. The scene was filmed from the surrounding gorge, which encircles the fall like a natural amphitheatre and forms part of the grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn.
The site is privately owned and managed by the same proprietor as the quaint Green Dragon Inn, who has diligently worked to restore the area to its natural splendour for visitors to appreciate. Spanning an expansive 15 acres, the grounds include a car park for convenience and a well-maintained Heritage Centre that serves as the gateway to this stunning water feature.
Visitor Accessibility and Experiences
Entry to Hardraw Force is priced at £4 per person, with discounts available for families and senior citizens. The site is dog-friendly, welcoming well-behaved pets, and the path has been deliberately gravelled to facilitate wheelchair access, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. Recent reviews on TripAdvisor highlight the waterfall's appeal, with one guest noting, "Excellent place to visit, especially after rainfall. An easy walk and a harder one if you are fit. Dogs are welcome too. Go early if you can, and you may see a red squirrel."
Another visitor shared, "The waterfall itself was spectacular. A lovely flow of water into the pool below, this provided a lovely picturesque setting for everyone to enjoy. Absolutely worth visiting for the beautiful scenery." Meanwhile, a third guest commented, "Visited the waterfall today, cold but had blue skies and sunshine, which made the waterfall even more spectacular. It's privately owned and costs £4 p/p which goes to maintaining the falls and the gorgeous surrounding area."
They added, "It has a small on-site cafe and toilets, which were very clean. The walks around the waterfall are easy to a little more challenging, we had stayed at the lovely Green Dragon Inn that backs straight onto the entrance for the waterfall." This combination of natural beauty, cinematic history, and thoughtful amenities makes Hardraw Force a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
