Where are the Best Waterfalls near London?
When you think of waterfalls, your might not immediately think of London or the South East of England. Your mind might wander to the dramatic cascades of the Lake District, the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, or the wild landscapes of the Brecon Beacons. But you don’t need to travel hundreds of miles to immerse yourself in the soothing presence of flowing water.
There’s something deeply restorative about being beside water. Blue spaces, such as lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, are proven to calm the mind, and the sight and sound of rushing water can drown out the noise of everyday life.
Within two hours of London by car, you’ll find a surprising collection of falls and cascades perfect for mindful walks. Some are natural, others curated as part of historic gardens, and a few formed by weirs, but each offers its own unique charm. These falls may not tower or crash with the force of their northern counterparts, but their beauty lies in their intimacy, set against lush greenery and tranquil landscapes.
While most journeys are calculated by car, some locations within London itself are even easier to reach by public transport, offering a stress-free alternative to traffic. Others may require a little extra effort and planning, but for a day spent walking through varied scenery and reconnecting with nature, they’re well worth it.
If you’re further north, but still looking for waterfalls within reach of urban centres, take a look at the best waterfalls near Manchester.
Waterfall Facts
Eas a’ Chual Aluinn – 200m (Scotland)
Steall Waterfall – 120m (Scotland)
Falls of Glomach – 113m (Scotland)
Devil’s Appendix – 93m (Wales)
Pistyll y Llyn – 91m (Wales)
Sgwd y Eira in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) allows you to walk behind its veil of water, and some falls in Eryri (Snowdonia) offer similar experiences.
Yes, especially in Scotland and northern England.
There are a number that are used for small-scale hydroelectric power, such as Linton Falls Hydro. The Linton Falls Weir on the River Wharfe has been generating power between 1909 and 1948, and now since 2012.
A weir is a small dam-like features built across a river to control and monitor the flow of a river. They elevate the upstream water level, which leads to them creating a waterfall as the river flows over the weir. Traditionally,
Where are the nearest waterfalls to London?
| Waterfall | Location | Distance from London (from Charring Cross by Car) | |
| 1 | Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens Waterfall | Regent’s Park | 3.7 miles / 6km |
| 2 | Kyoto Garden Waterfall | Holland Park | 3.9 miles / 6.3km |
| 3 | Kelsey Park Waterfall | Beckenham | 11.2 miles / 18km |
| 4 | Carshalton Ponds Waterfall | Carshalton | 12 miles / 19.3km |
| 5 | The Cascade – Virginia Water | Windsor Great Park | 25.2 miles / 40.6km |
| 6 | Sweeny Falls – Batford Springs Nature Reserve | Harpenden | 29.6 miles / 47.6km |
| 7 | Tillingbourne Waterfall | Dorking | 34 miles / 54.7 |
| 8 | Oughtonhead Common Nature Reserve Waterfall | Hitchin | 39.8 miles / 64.1km |
| 9 | Garden of Eden Waterfall | Ashdown Forest | 40.7 miles / 65.5km |
1. Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – ornamental
- Waterfall height: No official height, but may be around 2-3m
- Distance from London by car: 3.7 miles / 6km
- Average time from London by car: 20 minutes
- Bus: Bus 88 – Trafalgar Square (Stop T) to Chester Gate (Stop P)
- Train: Bakerloo – Charring Cross to Regent’s Park
- Nearest postcode: NW1 4NR
- OS grid reference: TQ 2827 8252
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 161 – London South
Hidden away in the inner circle of Regent’s Park, Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens Waterfall is a tranquil feature that many can overlook. It gently trickles down a series of stone steps, creating a soothing soundtrack that contrasts with the bustle of the city just beyond the park gates. Surrounded by greenery, it offers a peaceful spot to pause during a walk, whether you’re exploring the gardens or simply seeking a quiet moment outdoors during a lunch break.
From the top of the waterfall, you can stand or sit and gaze down toward the rose garden, a serene space that complements the calming flow of water. In the summer, the gardens are home to around 12,000 roses, which fill the air with their beautiful fragrance.
Did you know?
Kilt Rock waterfall on Skye falls directly into the sea.
2. Kyoto Garden Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – ornamental
- Waterfall height: Small, approximately 1-2m
- Distance from London by car: 3.9 miles / 6.3km
- Average time from London by car: 25 minutes
- Bus: Bus 9 – Charing Cross (Stop H) to The Design Museum (Stop X)
- Train: Circle – Embankment to High Street Kensington
- Nearest postcode: W11 4UA
- OS grid reference: TQ 2477 7990
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 161 – London South
Tucked inside the depth of a park, the peaceful Japanese garden set within Holland Park offers a moment of calm in the heart of West London. At its centre, a tiered waterfall flows into an ornamental pond filled with Japanese koi, creating a scene that feels worlds away from the city streets. The sound of water cascading over stone steps adds to the sense of serenity, making it an inviting spot to pause during a walk through the park.
The garden is compact yet beautifully designed, with manicured planting and winding paths that encourage slow exploration. You can cross a small bridge at the base of the waterfall, giving you a close-up view of the rushing water and the koi gliding below. It’s an ideal place to take a break, perhaps on a lunch hour, where the combination of flowing water, greenery, and Japanese landscaping offers a restorative escape.
3. Kelsey Park Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – weir
- Waterfall height: Approximately 3m
- Distance from London by car: 11.2 miles / 18km
- Average time from London by car: 55 minutes
- Bus: Bus 176 – Trafalgar Square/Charing Cross to Thicket Road (Stop N) > Bus 227 to Manor Road (Stop J)
- Train: Charing Cross to Eden Park
- Nearest postcode: BR3 3LS
- OS grid reference: TQ 3765 6893
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 161 – London South
Set within the expansive greenery of Kelsey Park, this waterfall offers a refreshing focal point to pause beside. Dropping around three metres between the park’s Upper and Lower Lakes, it creates a gentle yet captivating cascade that adds movement and sound to the tranquil setting. The surrounding landscape is ideal for leisurely walks, with open spaces and lakeside paths that invite you to slow down and enjoy nature.
A bridge crosses near the waterfall, providing the perfect spot to pause and soak up the atmosphere. From here, you can watch water tumble into the lower lake and take in views of the park’s wildlife and tree-lined banks. Whether you’re strolling through the park for exercise or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the combination of flowing water and green space makes this a rewarding outdoor escape.
Did you know?
The tallest manmade waterfall is believed to be Lady Exmouth’s falls in Devon. It was created in the 1880s by Lady Susan, wife of the third Lord of Exmouth, who hired a team of miners at risk of redundancy from the silver and tin mines to create the 70m fall.
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Go to the shop4. The Cascade – The Grove
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – ornamental
- Waterfall height: No official height, but approximately 1-1.5m
- Distance from London by car: 12 miles / 19.3km
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour
- Bus: Requires a number of changes
- Train: District/Circle – Embankment to Victoria > Carshalton
- Nearest postcode: SM5 3NX
- OS grid reference: TQ 2784 6450
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 161 – London South
Set within Grove Park and at the Carshalton Ponds, this waterfall is a charming feature that adds movement and sound to the tranquil setting. Known as the Cascade, it was constructed in 1968 to replace a functional weir, creating a more decorative focal point for the area.
Just over an hour from London by car or public transport, it’s an accessible spot for those looking to combine a gentle walk with the calming presence of flowing water. The surrounding parkland offers plenty of space for strolling, with paths that meander around the ponds and through green spaces. Standing near the Cascade, you can watch water tumble down its steps and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the urban surroundings.
5. The Cascade – Virginia Water
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – ornamental
- Waterfall height: Approximately 9.1m
- Distance from London by car: 25.2 miles / 40.6km
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour
- Bus: N/A
- Train: Waterloo to Virginia Water
- Nearest postcode: TW20 0HP
- OS grid reference: SU 9695 6904
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 160 – Windsor, Weybridge & Bracknell
On the edge of Windsor Great Park lies one of the most impressive waterfalls within easy reach of London.
Known as the Cascade, this 18th-century artificial waterfall drops around 9.1 metres (30 feet) where the waters of Virginia Water flow into the Wentworth River. Its tiered design creates a dramatic rush of water, especially after rainfall, when the sound of the cascade fills the surrounding woodland and makes the experience even more immersive. Walking through the park to reach this spot offers a chance to enjoy sweeping green landscapes and lakeside views before arriving at the waterfall’s powerful display.
The area around the Cascade is perfect for pausing and soaking up the atmosphere. A nearby bridge provides an excellent vantage point to watch the water tumble down and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this historic feature.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Leptis Magna Ruin, a striking folly built from columns and slabs recovered from the Roman city of Leptis Magna in present-day Libya.
Did you know?
The UK has a handful of underground waterfalls that are hidden away in caves. There’s Gaping Gill in the Yorkshire Dales, Dan-yr-Ogof in South Wales, and Swildon’s Hole in the Mendip Hills.
6. Sweeny Falls – Batford Springs Nature Reserve
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – weir
- Waterfall height: No official height, but likely less than 1m
- Distance from London by car: 29.6 miles / 47.6km
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Bus: N/A
- Train: Victoria – Oxford Circus to St Pancras > Harpenden Railway
- Nearest postcode: AL5 5AQ
- OS grid reference: TL 1469 1499
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 182 – St Albans & Hatfield
Nestled within Batford Springs Nature Reserve, this small waterfall on the River Lea offers a gentle yet charming feature for those exploring the area. Known as Sweeny Falls, it was constructed in the 1970s and provides a picturesque spot where water tumbles over a low ledge, creating a soothing sound that enhances the natural setting. The reserve is rich in ponds and rare chalk streams, of which there are only about 200 in the world.
The waterfall itself is modest in size, which makes it perfect for families. Children can safely get closer to the water and, with care, even enjoy the stepping stones nearby for a bit of playful exploration. Walking through the reserve offers plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the sights and sounds of flowing water, alongside wildlife and greenery. It’s a wonderful spot for anyone looking to combine gentle outdoor activity with the calming presence of nature.
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Go to the shop7. Tillingbourne Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Man-made, although appears natural
- Waterfall height: No official height, but may be around 6m
- Distance from London by car: 34 miles / 54.7
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Bus: N/A
- Train: Waterloo to Dorking > Bus 32 to Manor Farm
- Nearest postcode: RH5 6JR
- OS grid reference: TQ 1277 4581
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 146 – Dorking, Box Hill & Reigate
Along the Tillingbourne stream near the Surrey Hills, Tillingborne Waterfall offers a glimpse of flowing water in a peaceful countryside setting. Although it sits on private land, it can be viewed from a public footpath, making it a rewarding stop for those walking through the area. The fall adds movement and sound to the landscape, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
As the waterfall is on private property, it’s important to stick to the rights of way and respect the land while enjoying the view. The bridleway itself provides a pleasant walking opportunity, with stretches of greenery and glimpses of the Tillingbourne stream along the way. Pausing to watch the water tumble over the rocks offers a moment of calm and connection with nature.
You can extend your walk to the waterfall by continuing up to Leith Hill, where you can visit Leith Hill Tower. Here, you can use a telescope to gaze out across towards London.
Top tip
Waterfalls are at their best after heavy rainfall, when the rushing water makes for beautiful photographs. Be aware that with more water comes more risk, and always remain safe during your visit.
8. Oughtonhead Common Nature Reserve Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Man-made – weir
- Waterfall height: No official height, but likely less than 1m
- Distance from London by car: 39.8 miles / 64.1km
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Bus: N/A
- Train: Piccadilly – Covent Garden to Finsbury Park > Stevenage > Bus 81 to Football Club (Hitchin)
- Nearest postcode: SG5 3RP
- OS grid reference: TL 1703 3064
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 193 – Luton & Stevenage
Set within the peaceful surroundings of Oughtonhead Common Nature Reserve, this small waterfall is actually a weir on the River Oughton, adding a gentle cascade to the landscape.
The common is a haven for wildlife and offers plenty of space for short walks, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed day outdoors. The sound of water flowing over the weir creates a calming backdrop as you explore the grassy paths and open spaces.
One of the unique features of the reserve is its grazing cattle, which add to the rural charm and sense of being immersed in nature. Walking here is easy and rewarding, with opportunities to pause by the river and enjoy the tranquil setting. The combination of flowing water, open common land, and wildlife makes this a perfect destination for anyone seeking a quiet escape close to London.
9. Garden of Eden Waterfall
- Type of waterfall: Natural
- Waterfall height: No official height, but perhaps around 1.5m
- Distance from London by car: 40.7 miles / 65.5km
- Average time from London by car: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Bus: N/A
- Train: N/A
- Nearest postcode: TN22 3JH
- OS grid reference: TQ 4641 2973
- OS Explorer map: Explorer 135 – Ashdown Forest
Deep within Ashdown Forest, the Garden of Eden Waterfall offers a sense of adventure for those willing to explore.
It sits in a landscape of heathland and woodland, creating a natural escape just under two hours from London by car. Public transport options are trickier with multiple changes and planning required, but the journey is worth it for the chance to experience one of the forest’s most secluded spots. The waterfall itself is modest yet enchanting, and reaching it may involve a little scrambling and moving through undergrowth, adding to the feeling of discovery.
While visiting the Garden of Eden Waterfall, you can also seek out two other falls nearby, Mungo’s Fall and the Forest Garden Waterfall, making this an ideal destination for those who love walking and exploring. Surrounded by open heath and shaded woodland, the sound of rushing water provides a peaceful contrast to the wild beauty of the forest, making this a rewarding stop for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Top tip
When photographing waterfalls, always remember to bring waterproof layers and an extra pair of clothes just in case. To get the best shot, you might find yourself getting closer to the rushing water than you expected and it doesn’t take long to get wet from a bit of spray!
Looking for more waterfalls beyond London?
While these are the closest waterfalls to London, there are a number more in the South East if you’re willing to go a little further, either for a full day trip or a weekend visit.
- Beeleigh Falls – A charming, man‑made cascade and weir complex on the Rivers Blackwater and Chelmer near Maldon, Essex, where freshwater meets tidal flow amid a scenic canal‑side walking route,
- Hothfield Lake Falls – A small overflow waterfall created in 1851 by damming a tributary on Kent’s North Downs, where water spills from Hothfield Lake over a rustic bridge in a quaint rural setting.
- Ramsgate Waterfall (Madeira Walk Waterfall) – An ornamental Pulhamite structure built in the late 19th century in Albion Place Gardens, where five tiered cascades tumble over chalk rockwork into ponds next to Ramsgate harbour.
- Grand Cascade at Blenheim Palace – A dramatic, man-made waterfall designed by Capability Brown in the 1760s.
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