Cautley Spout Waterfall

Cautley Spout Waterfall is England’s highest waterfall in terms of its height above sea level. It consists of a series of four steep drops falling over 650 feet off the fells. It is located about five miles north east of Sedbergh in Cumbria.  

There is a steep walk to reach the top of the waterfall but once there the visitor can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. 

At the foot of Cautley Spout Waterfall can be seen Cautley Iron Age Settlement. This ancient area consists of scattered stones and earthwork remains. A stone-edged track leads from the settlement to the foot of the falls. 

Good views of Cautley Spout Waterfall can be seen from the nearby is the Cross Keys Temperance Inn, situated on the A683 road below the waterfall. This is a most unusual pub as it does not sell beer! It is owned by the National Trust.

The building was originally a farmhouse dating from the early seventeenth century which was converted to an inn. As Methodism increased its influence it became a Temperance establishment where no alcohol could be served. In 1948 the inn was bequeathed to The National Trust by its last owner, Mrs. A.E. Bunney on the condition that it continued its temperance tradition. The Inn serves meals and visitors are invited to take their own drinks which will be opened free of charge to serve with a meal. 

Cautley Spout Waterfall is located about 1 mile west of the Cross Keys Temperance Inn, between Sedbergh and Kirkby Stephen on the A683. There is a marked path from the side of the Cross Keys Temperance Inn.