The hidden gem waterfall walk in Northumberland with mysterious ancient rock carvings

The fall drops into a pool that, on a warm summer’s day, looks so tempting – if you’re feeling brave enough for a wild dip, that is. The water rushes over dark Northumbrian rock and lands with a satisfying crash that bounces around the narrow gorge, while mosses and ferns crowd the banks on either side. It feels prehistoric down here. Which, as it turns out, is rather fitting.

Just downstream, half-hidden beneath a tangle of tree roots, is a small cave. It’s thought this shallow recess may once have sheltered Stone Age visitors who made their own pilgrimage to this very spot. Somehow, that makes it feel even more special.

THE WALK

The walk begins at the remains of Ford Castle and heads east through open, unhurried countryside. You’ll pass through Ford Moss Nature Reserve, a wonderfully boggy heathland where red grouse, meadow pipits and woodcock are all regular sightings. It’s worth slowing down on the path edges too, because common lizards love to bask here on warmer days, and adders have been spotted on occasion (though they’ll want nothing to do with you, promise).

Continuing east, the land rises gently towards Goatscrag Hill before dropping down towards the Broomridgedean Burn, which is, honestly, a river name worth the trip alone. You’ll hear the waterfall before you see it, which only adds to the sense of discovery when you finally push through the trees, and there it is. The return leg follows the same route back to Ford, and it’s worth taking your time, the countryside often looks surprisingly different in the afternoon light.

POST-WALK

Ford is home to Ad Gefrin, just a few miles north of Wooler and well worth a stop for a post-walk refuel. Their bistro, Bēodern, serves the very best of Northumberland produce – exactly what you’ll want after a few hours on the hill.