The Fairy Glen is a lesser known, magical stretch of pools and waterfalls along Stonethwaite Beck, tucked away in a quiet valley near the village of Stonethwaite in Borrowdale, Lake District. Beneath the enchanting Galleny Force waterfall in the Fairy Glen, lie pools of crystal clear water, shimmering in a stunning shade of aquamarine blue.
The waterfall and pools possess an otherworldly magic; it feels like being in the pages of a fairy tale, or a dream. Butterflies and delicate winged insects flit above the water in the dappled sunlight, creating the appearance of dancing fairies.
The stream is bordered by trees, offering a shady, secluded spot for a wild swim in the Lake District National Park. Or if you don’t fancy a paddle, it’s a peaceful haven to simply sit and pause. The water is cool but refreshing on a warm day.
Where is the Fairy Glen?
The Fairy Glen is just a short walk from the tiny village of Stonethwaite, in Borrowdale, and can also be reached via a slightly longer walk, from the nearby village of Rosthwaite. Rosthwaite is about a 16 minute drive (approximately 6.5 miles) from the bustling town of Keswick. Stonewaite is around 20 minutes away (approximately 7.5 miles away).
If you are visiting the area without a car, the Stagecoach 78 bus service runs from Keswick to a convenient stop in Rosthwaite: “General Store”. This is an ideal starting point for the walk to the Fairy Glen. For the latest timetable and more information about the Stagecoach 78 bus route, click here.
Fairy Glen Parking
The walk can begin from either Rosthwaite or Stonethwaite. In Rosthwaite, parking is available at the National Trust car park, please note this is cash only and parking charges can be up to £9, so be sure to bring plenty of change. The Rosthwaite car park is a popular starting point for many walks in the area, so be sure to arrive early in the morning to secure a space.
In Stonethwaite, you’ll find limited parking on Chapel Howe Road just before entering the village. You’ll also find space for around six cars by the red phone box in Stonethwaite. During the summer months, when the Stonethwaite Farm Campsite is open, parking is available on site for £5 per day. This is payable by cash in an honesty box.
Parking by the phone box and along the road is very limited so make sure to arrive early in the morning, especially during weekends and school holidays.
I had no trouble parking on the road to Stonethwaite when I arrived around 9:30 a.m. on a sunny Thursday in late May.
The Fairy Glen and Galleny Force Walk
From your chosen starting point, follow the road into the quaint village of Stonethwaite. As you enter, you’ll pass charming traditional slate cottages lining both sides of the street, with the Langstrath Country Inn visible on your left.
Take the road that gently ascends on your right, this leads to the campsite. The path is rough and bumpy, which helps explain why walking this section may be preferable to driving, especially if you’re not staying overnight.
If you’re visiting in May, you may be lucky enough to be see native English bluebells blooming on the grassy banks that line the road.
You’ll then pass the campsite on your left. When open during the summer school holidays, the campsite offers toilet facilities here for patrons to use before setting off on the walk.
Continue up the ascending road and pass through the wooden gate. The rocky path runs alongside the campsite, and you’re likely to encounter some Herdwick sheep along the way. In the distance on your right, you’ll see the distinctive rise of Eagle Crag.
Take the path down to your left, which leads towards the beck (stream). As you reach the water’s banks, you’ll start to spot crystal clear pools and small waterfalls cascading between the rocks.
Look to your right, and you’ll find the Fairy Glen, nestled beneath of a canopy of oak trees. You’ll also see Galleny Force waterfall plunging into an elliptical pool of crystal clear water.
Galleny Force Waterfall
It’s possible to access Galleny Force for a swim in the waters, but this involves some scrambling down the rocks. Please take care and ensure you’re wearing appropriate footwear.
The water is cool and refreshing, but it’s important to ease yourself in gradually and acclimatise to avoid cold water shock. For more information on wild swimming safety, click here.
The water is generally fairly shallow, depending on recent rainfall, but it becomes deeper near the waterfall. Children should be supervised at all times.
After enjoying your time at the Fairy Glen, you can continue uphill on the path which leads through the stunning Langstrath Valley. Along the way, you’ll find additional swimming spots in Langstrath Beck and at the nearby Black Moss Pot. Alternatively, you can simply retrace your steps back to your starting point.
The Best Time to Visit the Fairy Glen and Galleny Force
The best time to visit the Fairy Glen is during spring and summer on a sunny day, when the beautiful aquamarine hues of the water can be truly appreciated. Wild swimming here is most enjoyable on warm days, as the water can be quite cold. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning and preferably outside of school holidays when the campsite is closed. I visited at the end of May, and it was absolutely perfect.
Recommended Equipment for Visiting The Fairy Glen and Galleny Force
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots: preferably waterproof and with good grip for rocky paths
- Waterproof outdoor clothing: the Lake District weather can be unpredictable
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel: if you plan to swim or wild dip
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sun cream on sunny days
- Water: to stay hydrated
- Snacks or a packed lunch: if you plan to stay a while
- Fully charged phone: For taking photos and navigation
- Small first aid kit: always a good idea!
- Cash: for parking fees if parking at one of the local car parks
Recommended Nearby Spots to Visit
- Black Moss Pot
- Cam Crag (great for scrambling)
- The Langstrath Inn, Stonethwaite
- Perfect for a hearty British meal or a malt whisky after your walk and swim
- Now serving a traditional roast on Sundays
General Tips for visiting the Fairy Glen and Galleny Force
The Fairy Glen is suitable for children and dogs, but be sure to supervise them closely, especially when climbing on the rocks or near the water. I recommend bringing an offline map, such as the OS or All Trails app, or a physical OS map, since there is no phone signal in the Stonethwaite area.
The Fairy Glen and Galleny Force Location
- Nearest Postcode: CA12 5UW
- What3Words: ///begun.convinced.slimy
- Grid Reference: NY272130
Nearby Parking:
- Stonethwaite Farm and Campsite
Address: Stonethwaite, Cumbria, CA12 5XG - Rosthwaite National Trust Car Park
Address: Rosthwaite, Cumbria, CA12 5XB
