Stock Gyhll Force can be reached by a short and easy walk through woodlands, making it the perfect addition to a day in Ambleside. Here’s how to get to Stock Gyhll Force.

If you come across the term ‘Force’ in the Lake District, chances are that there’s a waterfall nearby. Stock Ghyll Force is a spectacular 70-foot waterfall that cascades through pretty woodlands. Unlike many other waterfalls in the Lake District, Stock Ghyll is easily accessible via a short and easy walk through the woods. It has a nickname, “Rattle Ghyll,” as it was once instrumental in powering numerous industrial mills and buildings in the area. Here’s how to get from Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall.

Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall circular walk

2.2km/1.3miles circular | 30 minutes | easy route

This trail is perfect for families or a quick morning or afternoon hike. It leads to the Stock Ghyll Force waterfall and begins in Ambleside. The route weaves through the town, along the road, and scenic paths in the woods. The trail eventually takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfall. Just be aware that you may need to be comfortable with heights, and there is a short but steep climb on the way up.

Where does this route begin?

To access the Stock Ghyll Force waterfall trail, turn onto Stock Ghyll Lane. You can easily find this lane by following Rydal Road in Ambleside.

Location: Stockghyll Ln, Ambleside LA22 0QT

Is there parking for Stock Ghyll Force waterfall?

If you plan to drive, there’s parking available at the Rydal Road Car Park and Lake Road Car Park.

How long is the walk from Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force waterfall?

You can quickly complete the loop through the woods in 30 minutes. It took me around 15 minutes to get to the main falls from the entrance to Stock Ghyll Woods, but we stopped to take photos along the way. We recommend setting aside at least an hour to complete the walk, as the waterfall is stunning, and you’ll want to take some pictures. 

When is the best time of year to try this route?

We tried this route in the summer, which was perfect, although a little busy! It gets slippy and very muddy here in winter, making the short but steep climb harder. A great time to try this route is during autumn on a dry day. The colours are just beautiful.

What should I wear for the Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force walk?

Although this short walk doesn’t need hiking boots or waterproofs, it’s always better to be prepared for the weather. I wore my regular trainers with leggings, a hoodie, and a waterproof light jacket during my visit. However, the ground can become muddy and flooded if it’s raining or has rained recently. Therefore, hiking boots and waterproofs are recommended.

Ambleside to Stock Ghyll Force Waterfall circular, our experience

• We started our walk from the Ambleside Inn on Market Place. We made our way to Stock Ghyll Lane and followed it until we reached the Stock Ghyll Force entrance. There is a sign that says ‘this way to the falls’ with a hand pointing you in the right direction.
• On the walk, we came across the stunning first cascade! It was a beautiful start to the falls, and we reached it within the first five minutes of the walk. You can pause here to take photos.
• From here, we followed the red arrows to the falls through the woodland. Some steps are made of logs and can be slippery when wet. So, it’s essential to be cautious as you proceed. The good news is that following the red arrows is easy.

• We continued along the trail and climbed steeper log steps to reach the viewing platform. We just kept following the route until we spotted the railings on our left-hand side.
• You can visit two platforms, one lower down, which I found to be much better than the second one above. Once you’re done, you can retrace your steps and head back towards Ambleside.

• Or loop around the top of the falls and follow the trail back around the other side. Once you reach the bottom of Stock Ghyll River, you’ll see a bridge allowing you to cross over the river and access the original path you came in on.
• From here, you can quickly head back to Ambleside and continue your walk through the town or join one of the many walking routes in the area, too!

Are you looking for more waterfalls close to Ambleside?

The Lake District has plenty of waterfalls you can hike to. Some may be In the Northern Lakes; you can find the breathtaking Aira Force, the most well-known waterfall, which can be reached by car approximately an hour from Ambleside.

If you prefer something closer, we highly recommend Skelwith Force. Although only 16 feet tall, it’s still a magnificent sight and offers excellent scenery. It’s just an 8-minute drive from Ambleside, and you can easily reach it from the car park in minutes. Unlike Stock Ghyll Force, you can get close to Skelwith Falls and truly appreciate its beauty. The waterfall is formed by the confluence of two rivers – the River Brathay and Langdale Beck.

History of Stock Ghyll Force

In Ambleside, were 12 watermills built as early as the 14th century. These mills were powered by the falls and other becks like Stock Beck and were used to produce various items such as bobbins for cotton and silk thread, fabrics, paper, ground corn, and wool processing. While these mills are no longer operational, several original buildings have been restored and are now used as shops.

The Waterwheel has been converted into a guesthouse, and the Bridge House is currently under the ownership of the National Trust. During the Victorian era, Colonel Rhodes owned the land and recognised the growing popularity of tourism in the region with the completion of the North-Western railway. As a result, he capitalised on the opportunity by allowing people to visit the falls. 

The Stock Ghyll Park became a tourist attraction and gained popularity after it was opened up to the public. Colonel Rhodes added several amenities, such as a viewing platform, a refreshment shelter, donkey rides, and even bathing facilities at the waterfalls.

However, in 1885, the entrance fee was a penny, a considerable amount back then. The proceeds from the entrance fee were used to preserve railings, seats, and ‘rustic bridges.’ Today, we can appreciate that the park is free to visit. The old turnstile entrance and exit are still there for visitors to see.

Stock Ghyll Force and William Wordsworth

In 1835, William Wordsworth suggested that visitors to Ambleside should take a three-minute break to observe the flow of Stock Ghyll through the village. He also mentioned that “Stockgill-force, upon the same stream, will have been mentioned to you as one of the sights of the neighbourhood”.

According to Victorian writers, the waterfall was a must-see spot in Ambleside and the first place that any tourist would visit. However, the waterfall became so familiar to people that Harriet Martineau reported that it was fashionable to speak lightly of it. She found it to be an “exquisite waterfall…Grander cataracts there may be—scarcely a more beautiful one”.

Explore Ambleside

Located at the northern tip of Lake Windermere, Ambleside boasts breathtaking views of the English Lake District mountains like Wansfell Pike and Loughrigg Fell. The town is also home to various shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can read our detailed Ambleside walking guide here.

Where to eat, drink and stay in Ambleside

YHA Ambleside is an excellent option if you’re planning to explore the walking routes around Ambleside and need an affordable place to stay. They offer private and shared rooms, as well as a café that serves delicious local food. One of the highlights of staying there is the decked terrace with stunning lake views, perfect for relaxing.

The Waterhead Inn is an excellent choice for a more comfortable stay in Ambleside. The cosy rooms offer beautiful scenic lake views, and the inn provides convenient on-site parking. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Wray Castle and Windermere.

Ambleside Fish & Chips is just a short walk away from YHA if you want traditional fish and chips. They offer casual eat-in and takeaway options with beautiful waterfront views.

We loved the walk to Stock Ghyll Force from Ambleside. It’s perfect to add to your day exploring this lovely part of the Lake District. In the comments, let us know if you have tried this circular walk.