High Force (on River Tees)

High Force is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, situated on the River Tees in County Durham, in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is located near the town of Middleton-in-Teesdale and is part of the Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve. 

High Force is particularly renowned for its vertical drop of approximately 21 m (70 ft), making it one of the highest waterfalls in England. In harsh winters the falls freeze, creating cathedral-like ice formations. The rocks under the waterfall are gradually eroding, which means that the fall is slowly moving upstream, leaving a narrow, deep gorge in front of it. The length of the gorge is currently about 700 m (2,300 ft). 

The area around High Fall is known for its dark skies and attracts many stargazers, who sometimes are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, from late September to March. Wild swimming is not recommended around the falls.

Access to the northern bank is via a private footpath on the Raby estate for which a fee is charged (you can also park here). The southern bank can be reached free of charge via the Pennine Way public footpath which crosses the Moor House-Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve.