This walk offers a truly memorable Lake District experience, perfect for families and dog owners. The adventure begins with a scenic ride on the historic Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, affectionately known as the La'al Ratty. From Dalegarth Station, a beautiful walk through ancient woodland takes you into a dramatic gorge, revealing the magnificent 60-foot Stanley Force waterfall as your reward.
The Walk at a Glance
1.5 - 2 Hours
Plus train journey
2.5 Miles / 4 km
From Dalegarth
Easy
Uneven woodland paths
Very Dog Friendly
Dogs welcome on train
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Ride the La'al Ratty
Start your day at Ravenglass Station (CA18 1SW). Park here and buy your tickets for the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway. Enjoy the 40-minute, 7-mile journey through stunning scenery to Dalegarth Station in the heart of Eskdale.
2. Start from Dalegarth
From Dalegarth Station, walk down the road and turn left, following signs for Stanley Ghyll and Dalegarth Falls. The road becomes a rough track and leads you towards St Catherine's Church.
3. Cross the River Esk
At the church, you'll reach the river. Here you have a choice: a set of large, fun-to-cross stepping stones, or a short detour to a proper footbridge (Girdar Bridge) for a safer crossing. Both routes meet up on the other side.
4. Into the Gorge
Follow the path through a gate and into the woods of Stanley Ghyll. The path climbs gently, crossing the ghyll on a series of picturesque stone and wooden bridges as the gorge narrows and deepens around you.
5. Stanley Force and Return
The path culminates at a viewpoint for the spectacular Stanley Force, which plunges 60 feet into a deep pool. After admiring the falls, retrace your steps back through the woods to Dalegarth Station, in time for a well-earned cup of tea before your return train journey.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Train Times: Check the La'al Ratty timetable online before you travel to plan your day and ensure you don't miss the last train back to Ravenglass.
- Refreshments: Both Ravenglass and Dalegarth stations have excellent cafes, toilets, and gift shops. The village of Boot, near Dalegarth, also has two good pubs.
- Footwear: The woodland paths can be slippery, rocky and wet. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential.
- Driving Option: If you prefer not to take the train, you can drive directly to Dalegarth Station and park there to do the walk.
More to Explore Nearby
Eskdale Mill
A short walk from Dalegarth Station is Eskdale Mill, a beautifully restored and working 18th-century watermill. It's a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial past.
Hardknott Roman Fort
For a stunning drive and a dose of history, take the steep and winding Hardknott Pass up to the remains of one of the most remote and dramatically sited Roman forts in Britain.
Ravenglass Village
Explore the historic coastal village of Ravenglass, the only coastal town within the Lake District National Park. It was once a significant Roman port.