East Gill Force

East Gill Force is a waterfall in Swaledale, 300 metres east of the hamlet of Keld, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park in North Yorkshire. It lies where East Gill meets the River Swale, at the crossing of the Pennine Way and the Coast to Coast Walk. The site has two main sections of falling water: the upper drop is 4.5 metres, and the lower series of cascades measures 3 metres. The falls are popular with long-distance walkers, families and picnickers because the road is close by. Visitors often mistake it for nearby Catrake Force, which is less visible and harder to reach. The falls are one of four in the Keld area, alongside Kisdon Force, Catrake Force and Wain Wath Force. These waterfalls form where the river cuts a gorge through carboniferous limestone between Kisdon and Rogan’s Seat. The local name ‘force’ comes from the Norse word foss, meaning waterfall. The surrounding woodland consists of deciduous broadleaved trees, adding to the quiet, natural setting. A path leads from the road to the viewpoint above the falls, offering a clear view of the upper drop and the stepped cascades below. The sound of water mixes with the rustling of leaves in the woodland. Walkers on the Pennine Way or Coast to Coast Walk often pause here to rest. The site is easy to reach, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the dale.