W19: The Waterfalls Of Keld And The Upper Swale

Leave Station car park at 9.15am. Rendezvous at National Park CP in Muker, entrance before the bridge. (GR: SD 911 978, What3Words: ///towel.dished.ringers) at 10.00am. 9 Miles. Moderate. £7

It is claimed that Keld has the highest concentration of waterfalls within a mile of the village of anywhere in England. This walk takes in the half-dozen that are publicly accessible, as well as views of a number of others. Along the way, traditional hay meadows, with their characteristic small barns, give an insight into the agricultural history of Upper Swaledale, while glimpses of lead mining activity speak of its industrial heritage. Leaving the charming village of Muker, we head up over the shoulder of Kisdon Hill, with stunning views of the surrounding fells. Dropping down, we loop around Keld – the highest settlement in Swaledale – to visit each of its waterfalls, culminating in impressive Kisdon Force. A gentle stroll through fields alongside the river brings us back to Muker and the end of our journey through this beautiful and remote corner of the Dales.