Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk

Route Description for Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk

The Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk is a beautiful stroll that many people enjoy, especially in the summer months. The walk is fairly flat; however, when exploring the upper falls, the climb can be somewhat challenging so ensure you have the proper equipment.

This walk takes you through the East Gill Force and the Kisdon Force, which are both beautiful cascading waterfalls. The scenery surrounding the path of the rolling hills is also stunning, especially the Pennine Way. There is an abundance of natural beauty along this route and it is definitely worth a walk!

Beginning at the Muker car park, make your way to the path that heads towards River Swale, which is the river you will follow for the majority of this path. You will head through the village and away from the main road, walking between the cottages to reach a small road.

There, you will pass through a gate and head out along the track as you make your way up Kisdon Hill where you can see East Gill Force as well as Kisdon Force. As you continue to follow the path, you will pass views of the stunning Pennine Way and after you take this in, continue to the top of the hill.

Passing through another gate, you will wander along a grassy path, maneuvering two more gates and then find yourself on the track, where you will walk past several hillside cottages. You will then begin to descend on a steep slope before reaching Thwaite-Keld Road. Turn right here and you will come to Tan Hill. After this, you will see the Wainwath Force and arrive in Keld Village. Continue following the path, and you will arrive back at the car park where you began, as this is a circuit walk.

Trail Highlights

East Gill Force

The East Gill Force is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park along the Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk. It is small in stature and after running down the rocks, runs into the River Swale, where Pennine Way and Coast to Coast Walk intersect. East Gill Force is one of four waterfalls in this area along with Kidson Force, Catrake Force and Wain Wath Force.

Kisdon Force

The Kidson Force is one of the four waterfalls that can be found along the Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk. This waterfall spills into the River Swale and the falls are surrounded by the Kisdon Woodlands. The waterfalls are accessible along the path but can also be seen off of a small detour off the road; however, the rocks can be very slippery and dangerous to walk on.

Other Great Walks in Yorkshire Dales National Park

Check out our trail guides to Malham Tarn, Pen-y-Ghent, Malham Cove, Grimwith Reservoir, and the Whernside Walk. Or see all of our Yorkshire Dales walks.

Insider Hints for Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk

• The Kisdon Force and East Gill Force can be seen just off the road if you are not able to do the full walk
• Explore the Richmond Castle
• Rent a bike in Reeth and tour the surrounding villages
• Stay at the Kearton Country Hotel
• Grab a meal at the Father’s Arms Restaurant