Are you looking for beautiful waterfalls in West Yorkshire? Look no further than Lumb Hole Falls!
Located near Hebden Bridge, this stunning waterfall is the perfect destination for an outdoor adventure.
It is the ideal place to take a leisurely stroll and explore the area on foot.
In this guide I will provide everything you need to know about visiting Lumb Hole Falls. Including where to park, how to get there and what activities are available nearby.
So, grab your walking boots and let’s go exploring!
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About Lumb Hole Falls
Lumb Hole Falls is a stunning natural beauty spot located near Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire.
With its series of enchanting waterfalls cascading into the plunge pool below, this picturesque fairy tale location is the perfect destination for a leisurely outdoor adventure.
Here is everything you need to know about how to find Lumb Hole Falls.
Where is Lumb Hole Falls?
Lumb Hole Falls is a beautiful waterfall near Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire.
The falls are just over three miles north of the town. Or, just under two miles north of National Trust Hardcastle Crags.
Where is Lumb Hole Falls parking?
The easiest place to park to access Lumb Hole Falls is in the National Trust car park at Hardcastle Crags.
Midgehole car park (HX7 7AA) is the ideal place to park, as the path to the falls is accessed from this car park.
There is a parking charge of £5. However, parking is free for National Trust members.
Alternatively, you can park in Hebden Bridge and walk to the falls from the town, however, this longer route is approximately three miles and will take you around two and a half to three hours to complete there and back.
Who owns Lumb Hole Falls?
Lumb Hole Falls sits on privately owned land. Access can be gained to the falls via the use of permissive paths.
However, at times the owners may post signs saying that the waterfall is “closed”.
This has happened due to an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area. Much of this behaviour has led to littering and visitors not respecting this beauty spot.
If you visit and the owners indicate that the falls are closed, please respect their wishes. You can return another day to see the falls, as we did when they were closed on our first visit.
If the falls are closed, you can spend your day exploring Hardcastle Crags instead. Find a full guide to Hardcastle Crags here.
Can I swim at Lumb Hole Falls?
In the past, Lumb Hole Falls has been a popular spot for wild swimmers.
And while it is still possible to swim in the plunge pool, police have recently advised swimmers to not venture into the water.
This is a result of an increase in dangerous litter such as glass bottles in the water.
When we visited the owner of the land was displaying no swimming signs. If these are in place when you visit, then please respect their wishes, and stay out of the water.
How to get to Lumb Hole Falls
Here is everything you need to know about how to get to Lumb Hole Falls.
The walk to the falls from Hardcastle Crags is clear and easy to follow. Due to the Pennine setting, the route is hilly and includes a steep decline to reach the waterfall.
Unfortunately, the steep terrain means this route is not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Ensure you are wearing sturdy shoes and pack your hiking essentials as the track gets slippery underfoot.
Pack a map! Grab a copy of Ordnance Survey OL21 South Pennines for your journey.
Lumb Hole Falls Walk: Hardcastle Crags to Lumb Falls
Here is your step-by-step guide to the Lumb Hole Falls walk.
First, you will need to take a track that leads from Midgehole car park.
Instead of taking the path that leads into Hardcastle Crags, walk through the car park to the far end.
You will find a track which leads to a National Trust holiday cottage. This is the route you want to take.
This paved track will continue to slowly ascend as you follow it upwards.
It leads past Widdop Gate Barn. This is a National Trust holiday cottage, which can accommodate up to five visitors.
The track will continue to climb upwards as you follow it past rolling fields and into a picturesque woodland.
Beyond the woodland, the track continues through a farm. The views are spectacular during this last section before you descend to Lumb Hole waterfall.
Along the track you will encounter this sneaky signpost which is a little nondescript. Be sure you don’t miss it!
It signals when you need to start your descent down the hill towards the falls.
The descent will take you past a crumbling barn building and alongside a wall.
Look over the wall to your right to spot the iconic sight of Stoodley Pike atop a hill in the distance!
Take care as you descend as the ground is uneven and steep underfoot. The track will lead you directly to the waterfall.
When you have explored the falls, return to the car park via the same route.
How long does it take to walk to Lumb Hole Falls?
The route is 1.7 miles in length from Midgehole car park to the falls.
You can reach the falls in 45 minutes to one hour.
The full journey will be double this as you return to the car park via the same route.
Important information about visiting Lumb Hole Falls
When visiting Lumb Hole Falls, please keep these considerations in mind to ensure all visitors have a wonderful experience.
- Respect any signs displayed by the owners. If the falls are closed, return another day, and don’t swim if the signs advise you not to.
- Don’t disrupt the experience of other visitors. Keep conversations at a considerate volume and don’t play music.
- Take your litter home with you. Don’t ruin the scenery and put wildlife at risk with your waste. Take it home or place it in a waste bin when you encounter one. Note that there are no bins at the falls.
- The waterfall is not an appropriate place to have a picnic so leave the food at home or in the car.
What to do at Lumb Hole Falls
Lumb Hole Falls is an idyllic beauty spot. It is the perfect place to sit and unwind, admire the views, and enjoy nature.
Once you arrive, I recommend looking around and getting some photos of the pretty falls.
Also, see if you can spot the plaque in the photo below.
It indicates the spot where six local men were photographed shortly before the outbreak of the First World War. Sadly, all these men lost their lives in battle.
However, their legacy lives on in the form of the poem Six Young Men by Ted Hughes.
Hughes was inspired by the photograph and penned the poem.
I don’t advise bringing a picnic to Lumb Hole Falls. There isn’t anywhere to sit and there are no bins around.
The area has recently seen an increase in the amount of rubbish so to alleviate the problem, I recommend leaving the food at home.
Hardcastle Crags
If you do fancy a bite to eat though, the cafe in Gibson Mill at Hardcastle Crags has a broad selection of delicious snacks, hot and cold dishes, and drinks available.
Once you have visited Lumb Hole Falls, retrace your steps to the car park, then follow the road into the woodland. The path will lead you to Gibson Mill.
While you are at Hardcastle Crags, be sure to enjoy the pretty woodland walks and climb to the top of the crags for spectacular views.
Click here for a full guide to visiting Hardcastle Crags.
Hebden Bridge and Heptonstall
Alternatively, once you return to your car, drive a short distance to the town of Hebden Bridge.
This pretty Pennines town has a wonderful selection of local cafes and independent stores for you to browse.
Plus, if you fancy a little more walking, you can follow this trail from Hebden Bridge to the sleepy village of Heptonstall.
Heptonstall is a charming village with impressive church ruins and the views from the steep walk are incredible!
When to visit Lumb Hole Falls
Like many waterfalls, Lumb Hole Falls looks most spectacular after heavy rainfall.
The spring or autumn months after several rainy days is the ideal time to visit.
The summer months are the busiest when visiting the waterfall, and it often looks less impressive due to the dry days.
I’d recommend avoiding Lumb Hole Falls during the summer months if you want to see it at its best.
I’d also advise visiting the falls early in the day. The car park at Hardcastle Crags fills quickly, so you will want to ensure you get a spot.
Also, the waterfall has fewer visitors early in the day, so you have the pleasure of enjoying it to yourself.
Where to stay in Hebden Bridge
If you want to extend your stay in Hebden Bridge and explore more of the beautiful Yorkshire Pennines, here are the best places to stay in Hebden Bridge and the surrounding area.
Hebden Bridge is a popular destination for visitors from around the world, and there are many wonderful places to stay in this charming market town.
From boutique hotels to cosy cottages and everything in between, Hebden Bridge has something for everyone looking for a unique experience.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an action-packed family vacation, here are some of the best places to stay in Hebden Bridge that will make your trip unforgettable.
White Lion
The White Lion in Hebden Bridge is a cosy and welcoming hotel that offers guests the perfect combination of modern convenience and traditional charm.
This 17th century inn is located right in the heart of this historic market town. It provides easy access to all the sights that Hebden Bridge has to offer.
The rooms are impeccably decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
Guests can also enjoy delicious meals at the onsite restaurant. Or sip a refreshing drink from the bar while taking in views of the nearby countryside.
With its convenient location and excellent amenities, The White Lion is an ideal choice for those looking for a truly memorable stay near Lumb Hole Falls!
Croft Mill
Croft Mill is an ideal place to stay for those looking for a short break in Hebden Bridge.
Located just off the main road in Hebden Bridge, Croft Mill offers comfortable accommodations with plenty of amenities.
Croft Mills provides easy access to nearby sights including Hardcastle Crags and Lumb Falls. Which means staying at Croft Mill makes it easy to explore all that Hebden Bridge has to offer.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or want to spend some quality family time exploring this picturesque area, Croft Mill provides everything you need for your perfect short break.
For those looking for convenient stay with the flexibility of staying in an apartment, Croft Mill is an excellent choice.
Hebden Townhouse
Hebden Townhouse offers beautiful accommodation located in the heart of Hebden Bridge. It gives visitors easy access to explore all that this charming town has to offer.
With its modern decor and amenities, it’s no wonder why people love staying at Hebden Townhouse when visiting this Hebden Bridge waterfall or exploring nearby Hardcastle Crags.
If you are looking for a romantic retreat or just need a break from city life, Hebden Townhouse is the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Plus, you will be perfectly situated near all the attractions that make this area so special.
Other Hotels in Hebden Bridge
Still looking for hotels in Hebden Bridge? Check out the map below for even more options to find the best hotel in Hebden Bridge for you!
Booking.comWhy visit Lumb Hole Falls?
Lumb Hole Falls is a pretty spot that is well worth visiting.
Much like Folly Dolly Falls in Meltham, the falls are set in a picturesque and fairy-tale like setting that is enchanting. It is a lovely spot to unwind and immerse yourself in beauty.
I especially like visiting Lumb Hole Falls as the walk to the falls is also picturesque.
With woodland sections and rolling hills plus dramatic views, the route is varied, and you constantly spot something new!
Also, since the falls neighbours Hardcastle Crags, it is a wonderful place to spend an entire day out enjoying these impressive natural spots.
Will you visit Lumb Hole Falls?
So, will you be planning a visit to Lumb Hole Falls? I’d love to hear about it!
Let me know if you are planning a visit or if you have been in the past in the comments below!
Want to visit more waterfalls in West Yorkshire?
If you love chasing waterfalls, check out these guides to other beautiful waterfalls in West Yorkshire:
- 4 Beautiful Waterfalls in West Yorkshire You Need to Visit
- Folly Dolly Falls in Meltham
- Goit Stock Waterfall in Bingley
- Brontë Waterfall in Haworth
Or why not travel a little further afield to discover these incredible Yorkshire waterfalls:
Before you go
If you want to discover more incredible Hidden Yorkshire locations, see here for the complete series.
And if you want more Yorkshire waterfall inspiration, download your free Yorkshire Waterfalls Checklist for a list of the top 20 must-visit waterfalls in the region! How many have you visited?
Until our next adventure,
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
We definitely will always chase a new waterfall. So how could we miss a visit to Lumb Hole Falls. I can see why this is considered one of the most beautiful in West Yorkshire. I love when I get great directions on how to find the waterfall – from more than one direction!
Waterfalls are so beautiful, aren’t they? I love an adventure to track them down! Especially when they are as pretty as Lumb Hole Falls!
I would imagine the owner gets pretty frustrated at times with the inconsiderate people on his land. It looks like a lovely place to visit.
I agree! It must be so irritating when people don’t respect the environment. It is a beautiful place though and it appeared to be well cared for when we visited.
I would love to enjoy a day in nature at Lumb Hole Falls! Those sheep are just too precious. What a beautiful gem; thank you for putting it on my radar and providing such helpful insight for reaching it 🙂
Lumb Hole Falls is a beautiful place to explore! And the sheep were absolutely adorable! They were crowding around to get their photos taken! Thanks for reading, I hope you have an opportunity to visit!
Thanks for sharing this detailed guide about the Lumb Hole Falls! I can’t wait to visit one day! 🙂
Lumb Hole Falls is a beautiful spot! I hope you get an opportunity to visit! Thanks for reading!
Wife and I will be coming down from Newcastle to visit the Lumb falls 2-5June and the walk the general area around “The Crossroads Inn” where we’ll be staying.
Would be nice to see something with the same name as my surname 🙂
Angus Lumb.
Thank you for making a nice descriptive web page about Lumb falls xx.
Ah what a beautiful area to come and explore! There are so many lovely places to see around Lumb Hole Falls! I love visiting Hardcastle Crags, Heptonstall and Hebden Bridge. I hope you have a wonderful trip! I’m so pleased to hear you found the guide useful!