The thundering falls of High Force in
Teesdale. From high on the North Pennines, the River Tees rushes and
gushes until it reaches a precipitous rock ledge, where it plunges 70
feet into the raging pool below. There are steps down onto the rocks
in front of the falls, from where you'll be able to get some amazing
photos, and there are also steps up to a viewing area at the top of
the falls – though, fairly sensibly, there's no longer any access
on to the rocks there. The falls are part of Lord Barnard's Raby
Estate, and in summer a shop sells gifts, snacks and ice cream. But
at any time of the year you can call into the High Force Hotel by the
car park for a handpulled pint and a cheap homemade lunch. If you're
up for more of a hike, you can also walk up to the falls from Bowlees
Visitor Centre.
