Our afternoon stroll took us to Hareshaw Linn, just 3.5 miles from the campsite in Bellingham. Listed as one of the top five places to visit near Bellingham, it definitely didn’t disappoint. Not knowing what we were headed for, we strolled for 20 minutes or so before stumbling across our first set of falls. The area was once the site of an Iron Works in the mid-1800s and the footpath climbs over the mounds left by the 70+ ovens.

The route to Hareshaw Linn meanders through dense woodland – a site of Special Scientific Interest – made all the more magical by frost and snow. The footpath is, initially, paved but soon becomes more naturally formed. In December it is slippery and damp (at best) with some sections hard to navigate. The route takes you over six bridges. At each bridge, you may think that the waterfalls in front of you are “the one” but if the path continues further you’re not there…yet! It is definitely worth continuing onward.

As the path neared it’s ending, we were greeted by numerous diamonds glinting in the afternoon sun. Icicles hung from trees, fern and rock faces. Some encompassing nature and some hanging from previously formed icicles. I didn’t like how others were snapping off icicles, to take with them. Like they would be preserved forever. I don’t think we have seen such amazing forms in this country and outside caves.

Hareshaw Linn lay shortly beyond this icicle strewn clearing. Once more, the force of water was immense. There is something truly special about the natural flow of water and the way it shapes the landscape. These falls were well worth the slippery walk – although we are still in awe of those that did the walk with pushchairs or scooters!