Kisdon Force is one of the BEST waterfalls and wild swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales. It has two huge, deep pools to swim in and you can jump off the ledges into the pools. There is even a rope swing to play on too. This is a popular wild swimming spot in the Yorkshire Dales and one that you should definitely visit at least once. Even if you’re not swimming, it’s still a fabulous waterfall.
😮Moderate: a short walk but the path down is steep, uneven and very slippery
⛰️Terrain: gravel track then grassy, slippy slope and uneven rocks
↔️Distance: 1km each way
⌛Time taken: 15 minutes each way
📈Ascent: 12m
Start point: Keld Car Park, DL11 6LJ
🗺️Click here for the OS downloadable route.
🗺️Download the route on Komoot
🗺️Map needed is OS Explorer OL30 Northern and Central Yorkshire Dales
How to get to Kisdon Force
Park in the small village of Keld and head out of the village, following the main path along a wide, stony track.
You’ll come to a junction where you can go straight on or left. Left will take you down to a footbridge and across the river but you want to head straight on here, sticking to the high path.
The path gets narrower through the woods and there is usually a sign for Kisdon Force pointing to the left, following a path through the woodlands towards the river. You’ll be able to hear the rush of the waterfall and eventually the path will become steep and very slippery in wet weather. There is a rope to hold on to at one part to use to get down to the waterfalls. If you would rather, carry straight on over this section and cut down to the left slightly further on. You’ll come out on the rocky ledge in front of Kisdon Force.
There are two large pools here but the best one for swimming is the upper one. There is a rope swing and it’s easier to get in the water from the edge of the rocks here. Be careful of the water level and the power of the water; it can be a dangerous place to swim in the wrong conditions. But, in the right conditions, this is a fun place to spend a few hours and to swim in.
Where to park for Kisdon Force
There is a car park next to Rukin’s Campsite in Keld. At the time of writing (June 2026), the car park was free but a donation is requested via the honesty box.
Public transport option: The Little White Bus service 30, also known as the Swaledale Shuttle, runs from Richmond to Keld, with stops in Reeth and other villages along the way. Find out more and get the timetable here.
Is it safe to swim in Kisdon Force?
This is a place best saved for settled weather and during a period of low rain. Kisdon Force is a powerful waterfall with undercurrents and a large swell. It is quite intimidating, especially for wild swimming. Always take precautions and if you are at all unsure, avoid swimming or go with someone who is more confident.
Let me know if you’ve swam here before or if you think you’ll add Kisdon Force to your list. I love to hear what you’re up to. Or check out more on wild swimming here. 🙂