Stainforth Force

The water doesn't so much flow over Stainforth Force as it proper launches itself - a dramatic ribbon of white that drops hard into the pool below, framed by the grey limestone cliffs of the Ribble Valley. It's the kind of waterfall that stops you mid-walk, makes you catch your breath. The whole thing takes maybe ten minutes to walk to from Settle, which makes it almost absurdly accessible for what feels like a proper wild spot.

You'll want to allow an hour here if you're doing it right - wander down the footpath alongside the river, stand on the rocks near the base and feel the spray hit your face, then maybe sit a bit and just watch the water churn. Walkers absolutely love this stretch of the Ribble Valley, and families with competent kids will find it satisfying rather than exhausting. The path's not difficult, though it gets slippery near the fall itself, so waterproof soles matter more than fitness.

There's no entry fee and no café, which keeps things refreshingly simple. Go when the water's high - autumn or after rain - because in a dry spell it's just a trickle and loses something essential. Winter's moody and atmospheric if you don't mind wet feet.

If you're staying at one of the pods or campsites dotted round the area - Ribblesdale Pods is barely three miles away - this is an obvious first morning out. It's the kind of place that reminds you why you bothered packing wellies.