White Force Waterfall Walk (Forest-in-Teesdale)
If you’re chasing a big, thundering cascade, White Force isn’t it. But if you fancy a quiet, peaceful wander with wide Teesdale views and a small, tucked-away waterfall at the end, this is the one. Starting from Forest-in-Teesdale, the path slips past farms and over the River Tees into open country before finishing at a lovely little fall where you can sit, listen, and just breathe. (White Force sits within the Moor House–Upper Teesdale protected landscape, so please tread lightly.)
Quick facts (at-a-glance)
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Start/parking: Branch Foot, DL12 0EL (small free car park)
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Distance: 4.2 miles (out & back)
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Finish: White Force waterfall
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Terrain: Fields, farm tracks, a few rocky/uneven sections
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Best when the beck is lively (after rain), though still pleasant in normal flow.
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Time: ~2–3 hours at a relaxed pace
Why White Force?
White Force won’t blow your socks off for height, and that’s precisely the charm. It’s calm, usually quiet, and set in classic Upper Teesdale scenery. You’ll get big skies, moorland edges and the soft hush of water without the crowds that gather at the showpiece falls nearby. Cronkley Fell and the Pennine Way pass close by, so views are generous even on a modest-effort day.
We’ve created a digital walking route so you can easily track it on your phone See the route here.
If you’d rather go old-school with a paper map, you’ll need the OS Explorer OL31 you can grab it here.
Parking & start point
Branch Foot (DL12 0EL) is a small pull-in/parking spot overlooking Teesdale, handy for hopping straight onto good paths. From the car park, carefully cross the road and follow the farm track downhill. Cross the bridge over the River Tees, pass a couple of farms, and you’re quickly into open ground with well-trodden paths. Nearby, you’ve good access to the Pennine Way and long views towards Cronkley Fell.
Route Overview
Your walk to White Force waterfall starts at the small car park at Branch Foot (DL12 0EL) in Forest-in-Teesdale. From here, carefully cross the road and follow the farm track downhill.
You’ll pass two farms before reaching the bridge over the River Tees. Cross the bridge, continue past one last farm, and then the scenery begins to open out. A short uphill stretch follows, and this is where the views really appear.
Look to your left and you’ll see Middleton Quarry and just opposite it the cascade of Bleabeck Force. Both make great reference points and add interest to the walk.
Keep heading straight along the main track for a while until you reach a path T-junction. At this point, turn right, and the way soon leads you directly to White Force.
The terrain is generally easy going — grassy paths and farm tracks with a few rocky bits. Nothing too steep, though you’ll notice the gentle ups and downs of the Teesdale landscape.
Our Walk to White Force
When we visited White Force it had been a long dry spell, so the waterfall wasn’t in full flow. But that didn’t take away from the walk at all. The route itself felt peaceful and open with wide Teesdale views and hardly another soul around.
Crossing the little bridge over the River Tees was a highlight for our children, while the dog was far more interested in sniffing out every corner of the farm track. By the time we reached the waterfall it was just a gentle trickle, but that gave us the perfect excuse to sit quietly, enjoy the calm and take in the scenery across to Cronkley Fell.
It reminded us that not every walk has to finish with a dramatic splash. Sometimes the best reward is the journey itself: fresh air, big skies and the chance to switch off together as a family.
When to Go
The best time to walk to White Force is when the beck is running well after rain, as the waterfall looks its most lively. Even in drier spells, when the flow can shrink to a trickle, the walk itself is still rewarding thanks to the open views across Teesdale, Cronkley Fell and the Pennine Way.
What You’ll See Along the Way
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The River Tees crossing near the start
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Wide Upper Teesdale pastures and open fellside views
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Cronkley Fell and the moorland skyline
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Glimpses towards Middleton Quarry
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Optional detour to Bleabeck Force waterfall
Practical Tips
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Footwear: Waterproof boots are recommended — fields often hold water.
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Livestock: Expect sheep and sometimes cattle; keep dogs on leads.
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Phone signal: Patchy at best — don’t rely on it.
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Facilities: None at the car park, so plan ahead.
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Respect the landscape: This is a sensitive upland/NNR area — stick to paths, shut gates, and carry litter home.
FAQs about the White Force Walk
Where is White Force waterfall?
White Force is tucked away in Upper Teesdale, County Durham, close to Forest-in-Teesdale and around 6 miles from Middleton-in-Teesdale. The starting point is the small car park at Branch Foot (DL12 0EL).
What is White Force?
White Force is a small upland waterfall set in a quiet corner of the North Pennines AONB. It flows into the River Tees and is surrounded by classic Teesdale scenery — fields, moorland, and wide open views. It’s not dramatic in size, but it’s peaceful and usually free of crowds.
How long is the White Force walk?
The walk is about 4.2 miles (out-and-back). Most people allow 2–3 hours depending on pace and how long you spend at the falls.
Is the White Force walk family-friendly?
Yes, it’s a good choice for families who enjoy country walks. The terrain is mostly fields and farm tracks with gentle ups and downs. Children will enjoy the river crossing and open spaces, but supervision is needed near the waterfall and livestock.
Do I need hiking boots?
Boots or sturdy shoes are strongly recommended. Fields can be muddy after rain and there are rocky sections. In summer, strong trainers might be enough, but boots are safest year-round.
Is the White Force route signposted?
There are public footpath signs at some gates, but the walk isn’t heavily waymarked. It’s best to follow our digital route on your mobile or carry the OS Explorer OL31 map.
What other waterfalls can I visit nearby?
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Bleabeck Force — a short detour from the route
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High Force — one of England’s biggest waterfalls, very popular
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Low Force — a scenic cascade further down the River Tees
All are close to Middleton-in-Teesdale and can be linked into different hiking routes.
Is White Force part of the Pennine Way?
Not directly, but the Pennine Way National Trail passes close to Forest-in-Teesdale. You can easily combine sections of the Pennine Way with this walk if you want a longer hike.
When is the best time to visit White Force?
The waterfall looks best after heavy rain when the beck is in full flow. In summer it can be smaller, but the scenery — views of Cronkley Fell and the open Teesdale valley — is beautiful year-round.
Can I take my dog on the White Force walk?
Yes, dogs are welcome but should be kept on a lead. You’ll pass through farmland with sheep and sometimes cattle. There are also gates and stiles to cross.
Where do you park for White Force?
Parking is at Branch Foot car park (DL12 0EL). It’s a small free car park with picnic benches and views over Teesdale. There are no toilets or facilities here, so come prepared.
Are there toilets near White Force?
No, there are no toilets at the car park or along the walk. The nearest facilities are in Middleton-in-Teesdale village.
Is the White Force walk suitable in winter?
Yes, but conditions can be more challenging. The fields may be boggy, paths icy, and weather changeable. Good boots, warm clothing, and a map are essential.
Is White Force in the North Pennines AONB?
Yes, the waterfall lies within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and UNESCO Global Geopark, one of the UK’s most important upland landscapes.
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