Falling Foss Waterfall Walk: Scenic North York Moors Circular Trail

Explore the Enchanting Trails of the Falling Foss Waterfall Walk and Beyond

To start your Falling Foss waterfall walk, park at May Beck Car Park. This well-maintained car park offers plenty of spaces and sits at the end of May Beck Farm Trail, which you can access from the B1416 main road connecting Ruswarp to the A171. The turn-off from the B1416 is signposted as May Beck, making it easy to find.

From the car park, cross the bridge over May Beck and immediately turn left onto a signposted path marked as the Coast to Coast Path and Falling Foss (¾ mile). Follow the clear, well-kept footpath north through the woodland. The path generally tracks the course of May Beck, which will be on your left but not always visible. After roughly half a mile, you’ll come across another sign for the Coast to Coast Path and Falling Foss, indicating a distance of just one-quarter of a mile remaining to the waterfall. Continue along the woodland path, guided by further signs for Falling Foss.

Soon, you’ll reach an arched stone road bridge. Cross the bridge and turn immediately right, again following the Coast to Coast Path and Falling Foss signs. Continue past Midge Hall Tea Garden, and keep an eye out for signs pointing towards Littlebeck, which is 1¼ miles away. From here, the route takes you uphill, with Falling Foss waterfall on your left—a highlight of your walk and a perfect spot for a short break.

As you continue, follow the path past The Hermitage, an intriguing stone cave on your right. The woodland trail varies in terrain, with some sections featuring steps, boardwalks, and compacted gravel. There are occasional muddy patches, but nothing too challenging to detract from the beauty of your Falling Foss waterfall walk. Continue through the enchanting Little Beck Wood Nature Reserve, and after another half mile, you’ll reach a gate leading to the hamlet of Littlebeck.

Once through the gate, turn left and follow the road, which curves to the left towards a ford crossing Little Beck. At this point, you’ll notice Littlebeck Methodist Chapel ahead. Near the bench and information board, cross the stream using the stepping stones and re-enter Little Beck Wood Nature Reserve. The next section involves a steep uphill climb through the woods along a public bridleway. This part can be a bit boggy in wet conditions, particularly near the top of the reserve.

Leaving the nature reserve, follow signs for the North York Moors bridleway. The path skirts the edge of two very large fields, eventually leading to the edge of Great Wood in the top right-hand corner of the second field after half a mile. Pass through the gate and continue along the edge of the wood via the bridleway, then cross another field and along a track to reach Leas Head Farm. At the farm, where the track curves to the left, take the right-hand path indicated by a wooden marker post. This path leads through a gate and back into the woods.

Cross the ford over the stream and carry straight on, following the bridleway signs. In less than half a mile, you’ll arrive at Foss Farm. Continue past the farm onto a concrete track that leads you back down into the woods. Soon, you’ll reach the arched stone bridge near Midge Hall, a familiar waypoint from earlier in your walk. Cross the bridge and turn right, retracing your steps along the path signposted to May Beck.

Follow the path back through the woodlands to May Beck Car Park, completing this scenic route. The Falling Foss waterfall walk offers a rewarding trek through the North York Moors, covering just under 5 miles (8 kilometres) of enchanting woodland trails, picturesque streams, and stunning views.

Falling Foss Waterfall Walk: Distance, Duration, Statistics

Recommended Ordnance Survey Map

The best map to use on this walk is the Ordnance Survey map of the North York Moors Eastern Area, reference OS Explorer OL27, scale 1:25,000. It clearly displays footpaths, rights of way, open access land and vegetation on the ground, making it ideal for walking, running and hiking. The map can be purchased from Amazon in either a standard, paper version or a weatherproof, laminated version, as shown below.

About Falling Foss and Littlebeck

Falling Foss Waterfall

Falling Foss is a picturesque waterfall located in the north-east section of the North York Moors National Park. Standing at an impressive 67 feet (20 metres), the waterfall is set on the Little Beck stream. For those looking to visit, the Ordnance Survey grid reference NZ 888 035 makes this hidden gem easy to locate. Falling Foss is roughly 5 miles (8 kilometres) from the coastal town of Whitby, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists exploring the North York Moors.

Access to Falling Foss is straightforward, with two car parks managed by the Forestry Commission. One of these is just a 5-minute walk from the waterfall, situated along a minor road branching off the B1416 and clearly signposted. Alternatively, visitors can start at the May Beck Car Park, which is also signposted from the B1416 but located along a different road. From here, a scenic ¾ mile (1.2 kilometre) footpath follows the course of May Beck, leading directly to the waterfall.

Littlebeck

Littlebeck is a charming hamlet in the North York Moors National Park, near Whitby in North Yorkshire. It is nestled on the Little Beck, a minor tributary of the River Esk. The hamlet is roughly the halfway point of the Falling Foss waterfall walk I’ve described on this page.

The sheltered, secluded valley between the picturesque Falling Foss and the hamlet of Littlebeck is home to the lovely Little Beck Wood Nature Reserve. This beautiful reserve adds to the charm of the area and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. My Falling Foss waterfall walk takes you through this nature reserve.

About the Reserve

Little Beck Wood is a lush woodland filled with oak, ash, alder, and cherry trees, divided by the meandering Little Beck stream. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatchers, with dippers and grey wagtails often seen near the water. Woodland birds like the great spotted woodpecker, marsh tit, nuthatch, and treecreeper are frequent visitors, while spotted flycatchers make an appearance in summer.

During spring and early summer, the woodland floor comes alive with blooms of wood anemone, bluebell, primrose, moschatel, and early purple orchid, offering a colourful display for visitors. This tranquil woodland and its variety of flora and fauna make Little Beck Wood a captivating destination for a peaceful woodland walk.

Falling Foss Waterfall Walk: My Photos

We park in May Beck Car Park and begin our Falling Foss waterfall walk by crossing the road bridge. The path is clearly marked with signposts for the Coast to Coast Path and Falling Foss. This well-maintained gravel footpath is compacted and comfortable to walk on, making it accessible for families and elderly visitors. It’s a gentle start, with no steep inclines or declines to tackle.

The path winds through a scenic woodland setting. It’s clear that the authorities have put effort into improving the route. While there’s one small rocky section, the path between the car park and the waterfall remains smooth and well-kept. As it’s autumn, the forest floor is blanketed in a carpet of golden-brown leaves, creating a rustic atmosphere. We’ve barely begun our Falling Foss waterfall walk, yet we’re already enjoying it immensely.

Continuing along the trail, we appreciate how well the path is maintained. Lined with a variety of trees, the route feels tranquil under a canopy of intertwining branches. This section between May Beck and Falling Foss feels both peaceful and inviting.

The path gently curves deeper into the woods, leading us past large boulders draped in lush, velvety green moss. The vibrant moss contrasts beautifully with the fallen leaves, adding a sense of depth to the scene. It’s a delightful walk into the heart of the woodland.

Occasionally, we pass through woodland gates, adding to the charm of the route. The gnarled branches, covered in a mix of golden and green leaves, catch the sunlight. Thanks to the smooth, well-maintained path, we can enjoy the scenery without having to watch our step constantly.

In some sections of our Falling Foss waterfall walk, the path runs alongside May Beck. The stream ripples gently over moss-covered rocks, while tall pine trees line the route, adding grandeur. Occasionally, holly bushes mix with the pines, enriching the woodland’s natural beauty.

When the path splits, we take the left-hand fork, following the signpost for Falling Foss and the Coast to Coast Path. According to the sign, we’re only a quarter of a mile from the waterfall. Each post is carved with an acorn and the initials ‘AW’. Keep reading, and I’ll explain the significance of these symbols.

The woodland thickens around us, with slender and sturdy tree trunks flanking the path. The winding trail offers a sense of anticipation, encouraging us to wonder what lies ahead. Our Falling Foss waterfall walk is proving to be a truly captivating experience, with the rich blend of greens and browns giving an unmistakably autumnal feel.

Nearing the waterfall, we come across another signpost near May Beck. It directs us to both Falling Foss and the Coast to Coast Path, and the combination of the stream, signs, and vibrant woodland creates a welcoming scene.

We traverse a narrow wooden boardwalk, which is one of several along the route. Elevated slightly, the boardwalk helps keep walkers away from the boggy ground below, making this part of the Falling Foss waterfall walk more comfortable.

As we proceed along the boardwalk, we’re struck by the vibrant autumn colours surrounding us. The path is bordered by lush greenery and overhanging branches, displaying a beautiful spectrum of greens, oranges, and yellows. Ahead, an arched stone bridge comes into view.

Approaching the quaint stone bridge, partially hidden by the trees, we sense that we’re nearing Falling Foss.

Crossing the sturdy stone bridge with its low parapets, we spot a path leading straight ahead towards Foss Farm. We turn right, however, heading towards Midge Hall and Falling Foss. A thick layer of leaves covers the ground, creating a warm and inviting scene.

Standing on the bridge, we look upstream towards Midge Hall, which offers lovely views. I believe May Beck transitions into Little Beck around this point, although the exact location of the change is unclear.

We cross a small wooden footbridge to reach Midge Hall, home to the charming Falling Foss Tea Garden. This restored 19th-century cottage was derelict for over 50 years before being transformed into a tea garden in 2008. It’s a peaceful spot for refreshments, though it operates seasonally and is weather-dependent, so it’s wise to check the opening times beforehand.

Looking back at the stone bridge over Little Beck, we admire the small waterfalls cascading beneath its old arch. The weathered red stone and overgrown ivy blend seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. The autumn colours above and around the bridge add bursts of orange and gold.

We reach the highlight of our Falling Foss waterfall walk—Falling Foss itself. The waterfall plunges 67 feet (20 metres) down a sheer rock face into a tranquil pool. It’s a mesmerising sight. While there is a path leading down to the base, it’s steep and slippery, so we decide to stay on the main route.

Leaving the waterfall behind, we continue on a woodland path covered in leaves. The overhanging branches and dappled sunlight create a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.

We come across an old moss-covered stone wall, which runs alongside the path. Ferns and greenery thrive here, and the wall’s ancient appearance adds a touch of history to the walk.

Our route takes us to The Hermitage, about a quarter of a mile north of Falling Foss. This intriguing stone structure, carved from a single block of sandstone, is believed to date back to the late 18th century.

Above the door, an inscription reads ‘GC 1790’, which likely refers to its creator, George Chubb. Inside, stone benches carved into the rock hint at its use as a place of rest or reflection. However, the interior is a bit dark and uninviting, so we don’t linger long.

Local lore suggests that Christopher Jeffrey originally built The Hermitage as a secluded retreat or folly. Nearby, a semi-circular stone seat provides a popular resting spot, but today it’s filled with fallen leaves.

Leaving The Hermitage, we continue north through the woods. Stone steps lead us down into the valley, with gentle ups and downs along the way. While there are some uneven sections, none are particularly challenging.

As the trail meanders downhill, tall slender pines and thick undergrowth create a feeling of intimacy and expansiveness. It’s a lovely contrast.

Passing through a gap in the wall, we enter Little Beck Wood Nature Reserve, which covers over 26 hectares of woodland. The valley slopes are steep and heavily forested with oak, ash, alder, holly, and more. Wildlife thrives here, including shy roe deer, badgers, and an array of birds like woodpeckers and treecreepers.

The trail through Little Beck Wood has seen improvements over the years. Boardwalks now cover areas that were once boggy, making it easier and more enjoyable to walk.

We continue our Falling Foss waterfall walk through the nature reserve, grateful for the elevated boardwalks that keep our feet dry. The woodland is lush with thick undergrowth and fallen branches, providing vital habitats for local wildlife.

We discover an artistic feature known as ‘Fallen Giants’—a carved tree trunk. An engraved poem on the bench reads:

The tumult of my heart is stilled
Within this sheltered spot
Deep in the bosom of the wood
Forgetting and forgot.

Near ‘Fallen Giants’, we find a carved tree stump featuring the initials ‘AW’ and an acorn symbol. These honour Alfred Wainwright, the creator of the Coast to Coast Walk, which passes through Little Beck Wood. The acorn symbol marks officially designated National Trails like the Pennine Way and the Cleveland Way.

Earlier, I mentioned that some signposts bear the initials ‘AW’. Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk, devised in the 1970s, stretches 192 miles (309 kilometres) from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay, crossing three of England’s scenic national parks.

Stone steps lead us further into Little Beck Wood, extending our Falling Foss waterfall walk.

Little Beck flows over grey Jurassic shale, deposited as mud in ancient seas over 200 million years ago. In the 18th century, this shale was quarried for alum, a key ingredient in textiles and tanning. Our route passes a cave where the exposed shale is clearly visible.

A small waterfall tumbles over the dark shale, smoothed by the stream over time. The exposed rock face, almost black, hints at the area’s geological history.

Continuing through Little Beck Wood, we head towards the hamlet of Littlebeck. After a few ups and downs, the path becomes level again, making it easier to walk.

At the northern end of the reserve, an information board welcomes visitors arriving from the opposite direction. Managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the board shares fascinating details about the local wildlife and conservation efforts.

Emerging from Little Beck Wood, we follow the road into the quaint hamlet of Littlebeck. It’s a charming place with much to explore, though some features mentioned on an information board lie on private land.

We cross a ford over Little Beck and settle on a bench to enjoy coffee and lunch. It’s an ideal spot for a break.

Beside the bench, an interpretation board shares Littlebeck’s history. Three centuries ago, the hamlet played a key role in the alum industry. The board highlights notable sites in Littlebeck, including the Methodist Chapel, the Old Mill, and Thomas Whittaker’s Old Workshop, although some are on private property.

Leaving the hamlet, we take a route that climbs steeply through Little Beck Wood. We then cross fields towards the edge of Great Wood.

The bridleway through the countryside is marked with blue arrows, and with care, it’s easy to follow.

We head towards Leas Head Farm, but when the track bends to the left, we veer right at a wooden post, following the bridleway arrow into the woods.

Just after passing Leas Head Farm, we cross a ford over an unnamed stream and head back into open countryside towards Foss Farm.

After Foss Farm, a country lane leads us alongside the woodland towards Midge Hall.

Our route between Foss Farm and Midge Hall continues along a tarmac lane. The mix of golden and green leaves catches the sunlight, while a thick layer of autumn foliage covers the ground.

We reach the arched stone bridge near Midge Hall, where we started earlier in the day. We cross the bridge, turn right, and follow the trail back to the car park, concluding our Falling Foss waterfall walk.