Dalegarth, Blea Tarn & Stanley Force Waterfall WILD Walk

Walk description:

We begin at Dalegarth Station, where we will take our time to introduce ourselves and run through a quick orientation and day plan before setting off along a rising track into the hills. This is a steady climb that will rewards us (in clear weather!) with sweeping views of the valley as we loop southwest toward the tranquil waters of Blea Tarn, the perfect spot to pause for photos and a snack.

From the tarn we descend carefully on a steeper path, winding down to meet a quiet road and the gentler walking that follows the River Esk. Here the landscape softens: we stroll past meadows and woodland, cross a beautiful stone bridge, and enjoy a relaxed riverside section with chances to stop and take in the scenery.

Our path then leads into shady forest trails, where the sound of rushing water grows louder as we approach the dramatic gorge of Stanley Force. The waterfall here tumbles through a narrow cleft in the rock, a striking highlight of the day and a great chance to grab a group photo with the famous WILD flag!

From Stanley Force we follow woodland tracks back down the hill toward Dalegarth, completing a rewarding circuit that blends high-level views with riverside calm. We finish the day back at the station, and should timings align, enjoy a well-earned drink or slice of cake at the café before it closes at 4pm.

Why Join?

• Professional, qualified guide leading the way - that's me, Abbie - hello 👋

• A carefully chosen route that packs variety: tarn, river, forest, and waterfall

• A full day out but paced with rest stops and photo opportunities

• Perfect for walkers wanting more than a family stroll, but not a tough fell climb

Whether you attend alone or with friends/family, you'll soon get to know everyone in the group and enjoy a stress-free day.

Places are always limited on our walks, so do book on as soon as you can!

We need a minimum of 5 attendees for this walk to go ahead.

Book 3 or more adults and pay only £35 per adult. Pick the '3 x Adults' ticket: Abbie will then be in touch to ensure booking forms are completed.

Start/finish location: 

Dalegarth Station Car Park, Boot, Holmrook CA19 1TG

This is a pay and display car park that should take card payments, but please bring cash just in case. Cars are left at owners own risk. We advise you to leave no valuables in your vehicle.

Distance: around 10.5km/6.5miles

This walk is graded as MODERATE. The walk has around 500m of ascent and will likely be slippery under foot with some rougher paths and steep descents. Please ensure you have adiquate hill walking experience to tackle the ascents and descents safely.

We expect this walk around to take 5-6hours.

Date and time: 

Saturday 25th October 2025. Meet at 09:00am, start walking at 9:15am

Getting to car park: 

Please use google maps or similar to direct you to the car park. We advise you to arrive early due to car parks filling up.

Toilet stops: 

There are public toilets at the train station car park that will hopefully be open on the day. Otherwise wild wees are required!

Media:

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Accidents and Incidents:

Abbie and our walk leaders are all qualified first aiders and will always carry an appropriate first aid kit. Should you be involved in an accident or become injured during the walk it is important that you notify Abbie or other walk leaders as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let them know. Please use the booking form and the paper disclaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about. Abbie is also a qualified and insured Hill and Moorland Leader. 

Due to the nature of walking in an outdoor area there is often a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. Any queries please get in touch. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by us and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

Cars are left at the owner's own risk.

Weather:

Our walks are weather dependant. The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the day before and will send you an email if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! You should come fully kitted out for a full day's hike in the walking area.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk except emergency rations. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel an event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund. We may cancel up to 12 hours ahead of an event due to personal injury or safety concerns re the weather and will notify you by email.

By You: We require 30 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 75% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 30 days to 7 days before your scheduled arrival.

- 100% of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 7 days.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via admin@spendmoretimeinthewild.co.uk. You will be supplied with a contact number for emergency use on the day of the walk in your booking package.

Image supplied by Countryfile.com