Paddling in the waterfalls at the River nidd

River Nidd Waterfalls

The waterfalls on the River Nidd make the perfect spot for a Summer picnic, and they are top paddling territory!

This linear there and back again will take you to the falls, or you can stop off on the way to Scar House Reservoir that’s just up the road!

Where are the waterfalls on the River Nidd?

Nidderedale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just that. Beautiful! And that’s where you will find this super set of waterfalls, right on the River Nidd in Lofthouse.

You will find them on the road to Scar House reservoir, but you can also walk to them from Lofthouse, which is what this perfect little mini wander is!

This route is suitable for those who are just learning to stretch their legs, but make sure you pack a picnic blanket, because you won’t want to leave!

Paddling in the River Nidd in Lofthouse

Walk details for Nidd Waterfalls

Distance: less than 1 mile

Terrain: Easy footpaths. Flat terrain.

Parking: Lofthouse car park.

Public Transport: Yes! There is a bus service that runs through Lofthouse, and on to Scar House Reservoir, but you will need to check the Dales Bus website for more information, as some of the services are seasonal and will vary dependant on when you go.

Dog Friendly? Yes

Location: Lofthouse, Nidderdale

Map: Explorer 298 Nidderdale

What 3 Words: Lofthouse Car Park: eyebrows.yawned.encrusted alternatively, there is some verge side parking at flag.disprove.mailing but please park respectfully, and do not block access.

Toilets/ Baby Change: No

Nearest Cafe/ Amenities: Lofthouse, nearest town Pateley Bridge. There is also a little honesty box cake shop half way up the road between here and Scar House reservoir!

Directions to River Nidd Waterfalls

  1. Well this one’s an easy one! From the Car Park in Lofthouse, turn right, and then head down the footpath signposted Middlesmoor. You will head down towards the bridge over the River Nidd.

  2. Cross the bridge, then turn right through the gate into a grassy field. Head a short way along the river, until you spot the waterfalls up ahead of you. There you go! Get paddling! The leading photograph was taken after a lengthy period of dry weather. The water was shallow, but the large flat ledges were slippery underfoot so care needs to be taken. Water shoes are a must and the river levels will fluctuate with rainfall (*check out the other pictures for a winter view!). Care must be exercised at all times around water.

  3. Once you have enjoyed the water, and perhaps a picnic, head back up to the car park!

⭐ We hope you enjoy our walks, but please exercise common sense as routes can change with the weather conditions and seasons! The routes have been walked by our own two feet, but you know your own limits. Always take a back-up map, don’t rely on GPS alone, wear appropriate clothing for the weather and take adequate snacks and refreshments with you (although as a parent, I know you already know that bit!)

⭐ Leave no trace! Take nothing away and leave nothing behind, take all rubbish home with you.

⭐ If you choose to paddle, be aware of bio security. Always wear clean dry water shoes (if worn) to avoid cross contamination of species between watercourses, this is a particular issue in the Yorkshire Dales, to help protect the white clawed crayfish.

⭐ If you decide to paddle, be aware that wild water can be dangerous, and water levels will vary season to season. Always supervise children around water. Check out the safety information on the Royal Life Saving Society website.

The River Nidd waterfalls in the winter

What’s cool for kids on this walk?

✨ Nidderdale is a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty. And rightly so. It’s bloody gorgeous! For a top day out, why not go and visit Studfold Farm’s Fairy Trail, which is literally just down the road. Or do some outdoor pursuits at How Stean Gorge.

💦 The flat beds of the river make this a really cool paddling spot, but heed the previous warnings. To make sure this is a fun experience for all (i.e. no moaning!) make sure you take some water shoes with you as the beds can be slippery and rocky!

🌳 Why not try one of our walking games? Or you can download a free scavenger sheet!

Scar House Reservoir in Nidderdale

Looking for a longer walk in Nidderdale?

All of our family friendly walks are arranged in loads of different categories including, waterfall walks, short walks and walks with play parks. So you can find exactly the kind of walk you are looking for!

Scar House Reservoir is right up the road from this set of waterfalls and would be ace to do as well as a stop off at the waterfalls.

But we also have a whole page dedicated to the whole Nidderdale area, so why not check it out?

Scroll using the arrows for all our Family Friendly Walks

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