Since the end of the 18th Century Ingleton has been well-known for its caves and magnificent mountain scenery, but at that time the waterfalls were hidden from view and people were unaware of their existence. A series of articles then appeared in the Lancaster Guardian and other newspapers on the scenery in and around Ingleton which generated so much public interest that the idea of making the waterfalls accessible began to be developed and an ‘Improvement Company’ was formed. Pathways and wooden bridges were built and the trail was opened on Good Friday, 11th April 1885 at an entrance charge of 2d.

Thousands of visitors arrived in Ingleton by train from Bradford, Manchester and other towns. Visitors bought souvenirs of photographs and paintings by local artists. The popularity of the trail at that time is shown by the fact that on one day in June 1888 there were 3,840 visitors to Ingleton.

Today, over a hundred years since it first opened to the public, the Waterfalls Trail remains a beautiful and unique place to visit.

The above is an short extract from ‘A History of the Ingleton Waterfalls Walk ’ by local historian Muriel Humphries , a full copy of which can be purchased at the entrance kiosk (price £1.00).