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espite the trees surrounding it, High Force is difficult to miss. You’ll start to hear the rumble of the River Tees making its 70-foot plunge over volcanic rock from about half way along the approaching woodland walk.

From then on, the sound of your gravelly footsteps are hidden by the roar of water all the way to the ravine.

From the safety of the path, you can take in the strangely hypnotic whirlpools created below the falls, or, if vertigo isn’t a problem, take the steep steps to the very top for some incredible mountain views.

If you’ve got more time, park the car at nearby Bowlee, grab an ice cream, and begin the three mile walk along to the river’s more humble beginnings. This means you can check out High Force’s aptly named little sister, Low Force, further up the trail.

Then, with picnic benches overlooking the Pennines and the sound of water drowning out any extra noise, sit back and enjoy your lunch. What’s that dear?