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Catrake Force

Catrake Force is a stepped waterfall on the River Swale in Swaledale, North Yorkshire, England.

It consists of four drops, each with a distinct character, reaching a total height of around 30 feet (10 m), with the largest single drop measuring approximately 20 feet (6. 1 m).

The falls lie just upstream of the village of Keld and are not visible from the road, but can be reached via a campsite in the village. Downstream sits Kisdon Force, while Wain Wath Force lies upstream.

The name reflects a pleasing redundancy: "Catrake" derives from the Latin cataracta via Middle English, while "Force" comes from the Old Norse foss — both words meaning waterfall.


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