Where are the Best Waterfalls Near Manchester?
You don’t need to travel far from Manchester to experience the magic of waterfalls. Just beyond the city centre, you’ll find a surprising number of spots where water cascades over rock, creating scenes that are as soothing as they are spectacular. There’s something timeless about the sight and sound of rushing water surrounded by nature. Even the gentlest falls can feel majestic, their rhythmic flow washing away the noise of everyday life.
While there are plenty of walks available in an and around Manchester, if you’re seeking a peaceful moment beside a tumbling waterfall, these trails provide the perfect escape. Each waterfall on our list is within an hour’s drive of the city and accessible by public transport, making them ideal for a weekend adventure or an afternoon break.
Whether you’re heading to a local gem or venturing into the Peak District or Yorkshire Dales, you’ll find plenty of stunning waterfalls close to Manchester.
Waterfall Facts
Waterfalls often form where rivers erode softer rock more quickly than harder rock, leaving a steep drop as the resistant layer remains. In the UK, many waterfalls owe their origins to glacial activity during the Ice Age, were glaciers carved deep valleys. When they retreated, rivers flowed over the hanging cliffs creating dramatic falls. They can also develop through earth movements, where natural cliffs or steps in the landscape are later exploited by flowing water. Human activity has played a role too, with some waterfalls created or enhanced, for example as part of mill dam systems during the industrial era.
It’s difficult to pin down the exact number of waterfalls in the UK, as definitions vary. Some distinguish waterfalls from smaller cascades, and others include seasonal flows that appear only after heavy rain. There are over 125 named waterfalls, but there are likely thousands of waterfalls of all kinds scatted throughout the UK.
Many of the UK’s most picturesque falls are found in areas like Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and the Yorkshire Dales. With Manchester just a short drive from the Dales, you’ll have no trouble discovering a cascade on your doorstep.
Late autumn and winter provide more dramatic flows for the best rushing water thanks to heavier rain. In contrast, while spring and summer may see the waterfalls dry out a little, their surroundings are often more lush and green.
Where are the nearest waterfalls to Manchester?
| Waterfall | Location | Distance from Manchester (from Manchester Piccadilly Station by Car) | |
| 1 | Tintwistle Waterfalls | Tintwistle | 12 miles / 19.3km |
| 2 | Pingot Quarry Waterfall | Shaw | 12.1 miles / 19.5km |
| 3 | Greenfield Waterfall | Greenfield | 13.1 miles / 21.1km |
| 4 | Ashworth Waterfall | Rochdale | 14.7 miles / 23.7km |
| 5 | Edenfield Waterfall | Edenfield | 16.9 miles / 27.2km |
| 6 | Waulkmill Waterfall | Bollington | 18.8 miles / 30.3km |
| 7 | Cheesden Lumb Mill Waterfall | Rochdale | 19 miles / 30.6km |
| 8 | Middle Black Clough Waterfall | Glossop | 19.3 miles / 31.1km |
| 9 | Tigers Clough Waterfall | Rivington | 20.8 miles / 33.5km |
1. Tintwistle Waterfalls
- Waterfall height: Between about 1.5m to around 5m
- Distance from Manchester by car: 12 miles / 19.3km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 30 minutes
- Bus: Bus 219 – Piccadilly Gardens to New Road (Tintwistle)
- Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Hadfield
- Nearest postcode: SK13 1HP
- OS grid reference: SK 0292 9896
- OS Explorer map: Explorer OL1 – The Peak District – Dark Peak Area
Tucked away on the northern edge of the Peak District, Arnfield Brook carves its way through rugged moorland, creating a series of cascades known as the Seven Falls.
As suggested by the name, these seven waterfalls vary in size, some tumbling dramatically over rocky ledges while others form gentle streams that glisten in the sunlight. The area is rich in natural beauty, with heather-clad hills and quiet woodlands framing the brook. The sound of rushing water accompanies you as you walk, offering a sense of calm and solitude that contrasts with the bustle of Manchester.
Walking here means following paths that weave through open moorland and shaded glades, with occasional steep and muddy sections. While some waterfalls are visible from the main trail, others reward a short scramble down the banks for a closer.
The walk along Arnfield Brook is relatively short but offers plenty of opportunities to pause and listen to the water drown out the world around you. If you would prefer a longer, more challenging walk, you can explore further more of Arnfield Reservoir or seek out a number of plane wreck sites on Tintwistle Knarr for historical interest. The wreckage sites include that of three Hawker Hurricanes, a Lightning and a Lancaster Bomber.
Did you know?
Many northern English waterfalls are named ‘Force’ or ‘Foss’, which comes from the Old Norse word foss meaning waterfall
2. Pingot Quarry Waterfall
- Waterfall height: ‘Small to medium’, exact height unknown
- Distance from Manchester by car: 12.1 miles / 19.5km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus: Bus 181 or 182 – Piccadilly Gardens to Grains Road (Shaw)
- Tram: Metrolink tram (Pink) from Piccadilly Gardens to Shaw and Crompton Metrolink
- Nearest postcode: OL2 8NA
- OS grid reference: SD 9515 1026
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 277 – Manchester & Salford
Set on Crompton Moor above the town of Shaw, Pingot Quarry is a reclaimed sandstone quarry that now serves as a peaceful natural retreat.
The waterfall here is formed by the Old Brook, which was diverted decades ago to cascade down the quarry face, creating a striking drop against rugged rock. While modest in height compared to major falls, it becomes particularly impressive after heavy rain, when water surges over the ledge into the quarry floor below.
The surrounding moorland, once scarred by quarrying, has been transformed through woodland planting, offering a mix of open heath, wooded glades, and wildlife habitats. Expect to see kestrels, skylarks, and even foxes as you explore the area.
While the quarry provides a perfect loop for walking, you can extend your visit to the waterfall by walking north of the quarry to Piethorne. There you can walk along the edge of a collection of reservoirs before returning to the quarry through a number of small villages.
Did you know?
There are different types of waterfall, as categorised by their appearance and flow. The common types are:
- Plunge – The water falls vertically and loses contact with the cliff face.
- Block – A wide, rectangular sheet of water.
- Horsetail – The water maintains contact with the sloped bedrock as it descends.
- Cascade – The water tumbles over a series of small rock steps.
- Segmented – The flow splits into distinct streams by rock outcroppings
3. Greenfield Waterfall
- Waterfall height: The main waterfall is approximately 3-5m, with smaller cascades ranging between 1-3m
- Distance from Manchester by car: 13.1 miles / 21.1km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus: Bus 184 – Piccadilly Gardens to Greenfield Station (Greenfield)
- Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Greenfield
- Nearest postcode: OL3 7NE
- OS grid reference: SE 0370 0499
- OS Explorer map: Explorer OL1 – The Peak District – Dark Peak Area
Nestled in the Greenfield Valley on the edge of the Peak District, Greenfield Waterfall is a highlight of the moorland landscape where streams tumble down rocky slopes into clear pools.
The waterfall sits amid dramatic gritstone edges and heather-covered hills, creating a setting that feels wild and remote. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, with reservoirs and open moorland offering sweeping views across Saddleworth. Standing beside the waterfall, the sound of cascading water contrasts with the stillness of the valley, making it an inviting spot for anyone seeking peace and fresh air.
The walk to the waterfall is as rewarding as the destination itself, with plenty of opportunities to pause and soak in the scenery. When you reach the falls, take a moment to enjoy the calming rush of water before continuing your route. If you’re exploring around Dove Stone Reservoir and prepared for a more strenuous hike, don’t miss the Trinnacle, a striking rock formation that offers breath-taking views across the reservoir and surrounding hills.
Did you know?
The tallest waterfall in the UK is Eas a’ Chual Aluinn in Scotland at 200 metres in height.
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Go to the shop4. Ashworth Waterfall
- Waterfall height: Approximately 3-4m
- Distance from Manchester by car: 14.7 miles / 23.7km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus: Bus 17 – Shudehill Interchange to Rochdale Interchange > Bus 442 to War Office Road
- Train: Manchester Victoria to Rochdale > Walk c. 3.5 miles
- Nearest postcode: OL11 5UT
- OS grid reference: SD 8543 1350
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 277 – Manchester & Salford
Set in the heart of Ashworth Valley and surrounded by lush woodland, the Ashworth Waterfall is formed by Naden Brook as it cascades over a stone dam into a plunge pool below.
The valley itself is a mix of rugged upland countryside and tranquil wooded paths, offering a peaceful escape just a short drive from Manchester. The area is steeped in history, with remnants of old mills scattered along the brook, adding character to the natural setting. After rainfall, the waterfall becomes particularly striking, its steady roar contrasting with the quiet of the surrounding woods.
The route leading to the waterfall is varied, with trails that meander through Ashworth Wood and along the brook, passing through glades and open fields. While the waterfall is modest in size, its picturesque setting and the sense of seclusion make it a perfect spot for a pause.
After visiting the waterfall, you can further your walk by wandering through Ashworth Valley. South of the waterfall Naden Brook meets Cheesden Brook, which you can follow northward through woodland.
Top tip
Waterfalls make excellent locations for wild swimming, but be careful on slippery rocks and be aware of water depth and any currents caused by the waterfall itself.
5. Edenfield Waterfall
- Waterfall height: Exact height unknown, but likely around 3-5m as a small fall
- Distance from Manchester by car: 16.9 miles / 27.2km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus Route: Bus X41 – Printworks to Rostron Arms (Edenfield)
- Tram: Metrolink tram (Yellow) – Manchester city centre to Bury > Bus 481 to Edenfield
- Nearest postcode: BL0 0RB
- OS grid reference: SD 8057 1911
- OS Explorer map: Explorer OL30 – Yorkshire Dales – Northern & Central Area
Tucked away in the wooded valley of Dearden Clough, Edenfield Waterfall, also known as the Plunge, offers a tranquil escape just a short distance from Manchester.
The waterfall is modest in size, but its setting among moss-covered rocks and leafy surroundings makes it a beautiful spot to immerse yourself in nature. The area is peaceful and feels far removed from urban life, creating an ideal backdrop for those seeking fresh air and quiet scenery.
The surrounding countryside features gentle paths and varied terrain, perfect for leisurely walks or longer explorations through the hills and valleys. The approach to the waterfall itself is scenic, with streams and woodland. It’s a great place to enjoy photography, birdwatching, or simply pause and take in the sound of running water before continuing your walk through the rural landscape.
While visiting Edenfield Waterfall, if you’re looking for a longer walk, you can visit Waugh’s Well, set at the edge of the Scout Moor plateau. This Victorian memorial commemorates the local poet Edwin Waugh and is built around a natural spring. Its elevated position provides beautiful views over the surrounding countryside.
Did you know?
The highest unbroken waterfall in the UK is Fell Beck. Fell Beck drops into one of the largest underground chambers in Britain, Gaping Gill, where the main shaft is 98m straight down.
6. Waulkmill Waterfall
- Waterfall height: Exact height unknown, but likely around 3-5m as a small fall
- Distance from Manchester by car: 18.8 miles / 30.3km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 45 minutes
- Bus: Bus X41 – Printworks to Rostron Arms (Edenfield)
- Tram: Metrolink tram (Yellow) – Manchester city centre to Bury > Bus 481 to Edenfield
- Nearest postcode: SK10 5BP
- OS grid reference: SJ 9421 7738
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 268 – Wilmslow, Macclesfield & Congleton
Nestled on the slopes of Kerridge Hill near Bollington, the Waulkmill Waterfall offers a peaceful retreat within easy reach of Manchester.
Located on the River Dean, the waterfall is a small cascade that was originally a natural feature but was modified in 1803 to create a millpond. This pond provided power for the waterwheel of the nearby cotton spinning Ingersley Vale, or Clough, Mill. Now, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky outcrops, creating a charming spot for those who enjoy natural scenery. The area has a quiet, rural feel, making it a pleasant escape from the bustle of nearby towns.
In addition to the beauty of the waterfall, the surrounding countryside provides plenty of opportunities to explore. Gentle paths and more challenging inclines weave through woodland and open hillsides, offering varied terrain and rewarding views.
For a longer walk around the area, if you continue south past the waterfall, you can follow a route up onto Kerridge Hill. The incline is steep, but worth it for the view. From there, walk along Kerridge Ridge, bag a trig pillar and pause by White Nancy, an unusual Grade II listed landmark that was originally built in 1815 as a summer house.
Top tip
Visiting waterfalls in the wetter seasons will usually ensure the waterfalls are more impressive. However, be aware that the more water that is flowing, the more dangerous the waterfall might be.
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- Waterfall height: Exact height unknown, but likely around 3-4m as a small fall
- Distance from Manchester by car: 19 miles / 30.6km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus: Bus 135 – Picadilly Gardens to Bury Interchange > Bus 487 to Mount Pleasant (Nangreaves)
- Tram: Metrolink tram (Yellow) – Manchester Piccadilly to Bury Interchange > Bus 487 to Mount Pleasant (Nangreaves)
- Nearest postcode: OL12 7TY
- OS grid reference: SD 8244 1613
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 277 – Manchester & Salford
Set in the atmospheric Cheesden Valley near Rochdale, this waterfall flows through the ruins of the 18th-century weaving mill of Cheesden Lumb Mill.
The waterfall is man-made, however, the crumbling ruins of the mill add to the charm of the fall. Located among moss-covered stonework and surrounded by rugged moorland, its location gives it a distinctive, historic character.
Walking in this area offers plenty of variety, with paths that meander through open moorland, wooded cloughs, and alongside streams. If you’re looking for more waterside walking, the nearby Ashworth Moor Reservoir offers an ideal location for a stroll.
Did you know?
Some waterfalls can freeze in the winter, making them no less beautiful as they create spectacular ice formations.
8. Middle Black Clough Waterfall
- Waterfall height: Approximately 10m
- Distance from Manchester by car: 19.3 miles / 31.1km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 45 minutes
- Bus: Requires a number of changes
- Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Glossop > Bus 351 to Holme Turn
- Nearest postcode: SK13 1JE
- OS grid reference: SK 1161 9901
- OS Explorer map: Explorer OL1 – The Peak District – Dark Peak Area
Set within the rugged moorland of the Peak District, Middle Black Clough Waterfall is a hidden gem for those seeking natural beauty close to Manchester.
The waterfall tumbles into a rocky gorge surrounded by heather and gritstone, creating a dramatic experience. The area feels remote and wild, offering a sense of escape from urban life while still being accessible for a day trip.
Walking opportunities are plentiful, with paths that lead through open moorland and along streams, providing a mix of gentle stretches and more challenging terrain. While the surrounding moorland can feel exposed in places, the journey offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate the raw beauty of the Peak District.
Nearby are a collection of five reservoirs that offer the ideal opportunity to extend a walk. You can follow the line of reservoirs from Hadfield to Middle Black Clough. Or, for a shorter stroll, you can walk around a section of Woodhead Reservoir to reach the waterfall.
Top tip
If you’re looking to take a dip beneath a waterfall, be careful and cautious. Don’t jump from the top of the waterfall into the pool, as the water may be too shallow or the waterfall may pull you under.
9. Tigers Clough Waterfall
- Waterfall height: Exact height unknown, but likely around 3-4m
- Distance from Manchester by car: 20.8 miles / 33.5km
- Average time from Manchester by car: 40 minutes
- Bus: Bus 37 – Piccadilly Gardens to Bolton Interchange > Bus 576 to Green Lane (Horwich)
- Train: Manchester Piccadilly to Bolton Interchange > Bus 576 to Green Lane (Horwich)
- Nearest postcode: SD 6429 1276
- OS grid reference: SK 1161 9901
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 276 – Bolton Central, Wigan & Warrington
Set in a wooded valley near Rivington, the Tigers Clough Waterfall offers a peaceful escape within easy reach of Manchester.
The waterfall is a modest cascade surrounded by lush greenery and rocky banks, creating a picturesque spot that feels far removed from the bustle of nearby towns. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for those who enjoy quiet outdoor spaces.
Gentle trails lead through shaded areas alive with birdsong, while more open sections provide glimpses of the nearby hills and Rivington Reservoirs. The waterfall itself is a rewarding focal point, perfect for a quiet pause or a spot of photography before continuing your exploration.
The Tigers Clough Waterfall can be incorporated easily into longer walks, with various points of interest in the nearby area. Rivington Pike Tower provides impressive views across the landscape, while those looking for a more challenging hike can cross rugged moorland to the Manx Aircrash Memorial in 1958 for historical significance and sweeping vistas.
Top tip
When photographing waterfalls, do so on an overcast day. The lower contrast caused by the cloud cover allows you to keep details in shadowed areas and water highlights.
Looking for more waterfalls beyond Manchester?
While these are the closest waterfalls to Manchester, there are plenty more if you’re willing to go a little further, either for a full day trip or a weekend visit. You can delve deeper into surrounding area, as well as the Yorkshire Dales, Peak District and Lake District for dramatic plunges and cascades set within beautiful landscapes. Below are a few more waterfalls you might want to visit.
Yorkshire Dales
- The Valley of Desolation – A secluded spot near Bolton Abbey where a small waterfall flows through a rugged, wooded valley rich in wildlife.
- Brontë Waterfall – A picturesque cascade set in the moorland near Haworth, offering a tranquil scene tied to Brontë family history.
- Cauldron Falls – A charming waterfall in West Burton that drops into a deep, rocky pool surrounded by lush greenery.
- Middle Falls – A scenic tiered waterfall along the River Ure, framed by woodland and part of a beautiful riverside landscape.
- Hardraw Force – England’s highest single-drop waterfall above ground, plunging dramatically into a natural amphitheatre.
- Wain Wath Force – A wide, shallow waterfall on the River Swale, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and open countryside.
- Scaleber Force Waterfall – A striking cascade in a wooded limestone gorge near Settle, known for its photogenic setting and mossy rocks.
- Ingleton Falls Trail – A series of impressive waterfalls along a scenic trail through deep gorges and wooded valleys.
- Janet’s Foss – A picturesque waterfall flowing into a clear pool, surrounded by woodland and steeped in local folklore.
- Stainforth Force – A popular waterfall on the River Ribble near Settle, where water cascades over limestone ledges into a deep pool, often watched by leaping salmon in autumn.
Peak District
- Lumsdale Waterfall – A scenic cascade flowing through the historic Lumsdale Valley, surrounded by old mill ruins and woodland.
- Kinder Downfall – The highest waterfall in the Peak District, dramatically plunging from Kinder Scout with sweeping views of the moorland.
- Three Shires Head Waterfalls – A series of small waterfalls at the meeting point of Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire, set in a picturesque moorland valley.
- Blackden Brook Waterfalls – Charming cascades tucked into a steep-sided valley near Kinder Scout, surrounded by rocky slopes and heather.
Lake District
- Stock Ghyll Force – A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall near Ambleside, cascading through a wooded gorge.
- Aira High Force – A dramatic waterfall on Aira Beck, plunging into a rocky ravine with stunning views near Ullswater.
- Galleny Force – A picturesque series of small falls and pools in Borrowdale, perfect for a peaceful woodland setting.
- Lodore Falls – A striking waterfall near Derwentwater, tumbling down a steep, rocky slope surrounded by lush forest.
- Skelwith Force – A powerful waterfall on the River Brathay, set in a scenic spot between Elterwater and Ambleside.
10 Best Waterfall Walks
Waterfalls are a great place to visit for a leisurely stroll and we’re lucky enough to have many across Great Britain. Find waterfall walks near you including details of each route. Our OS GeOutside Champions share with us 10 of their favourites.
Top secret waterfalls in Scotland for wild swimming
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Wonderful Waterfalls in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park
The National Park at Loch Lomond is a 35-minute drive from Glasgow. It’s easy to get to by bus or train from Glasgow or Edinburgh or you can catch a ferry from Gourock, 28 miles outside Glasgow. The beautiful water rich landscape means you can discover some great waterfalls in the area.
