England > Cumbria > Lake District Waterfalls > The Howk Waterfall

The Howk from below the falls. The walls of the limestone gorge rise almost sheer at this point.

The Howk Waterfall

The pretty north Lake District village of Caldbeck is known as a walking centre, and for its association with huntsman John Peel. But there is another reason to visit; just outside the village is The Howk, a spectacular limestone gorge and waterfall.

The Howk is reached by way of a signposted riverside trail from path crosses over the village centre. The walk takes only 10 minutes, and the going is fairly easy. On the way you pass the remains of an old bobbin mill which had at one time the largest overshot wheel in the country. Immediately beyond the mill, the river narrows to form The Howk. The thunder of the water is quite deafening, but to get the best out of your view you would be best advised to come in the Autumn or Winter. At other times of the year the growth of greenery can obscure the view of the falls.

While in Caldbeck take the time to stroll along the river to the parish church. There you will find the grave of John Peel, made famous in the song 'D'ye ken John Peel?', written by Peel's friend John Graves in 1832. Peel's monument is adorned with hunting paraphernalia and carved with likenesses of dogs and hunting horns. Also in the churchyard is the grave of Mary Robinson, the 'Beauty of Buttermere'.

Location map for The Howk Waterfall

Nearest Hotels to The Howk Waterfall

Howbeck lodge - 1.8 miles away Hesket Newmarket, Cumbria Stay from: £60.00

The Woodlands Country House - 5.1 miles away Ireby, Cumbria Stay from: £80.00

West Woodside House - 6 miles away Wigton, Cumbria Stay from: £35.00

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