25/10/2026
We’ve had a few guests spot the spectacular salmon leaping their way up the waterfall at Stainforth!
STAINFORTH SALMON RUN
ONE OF THE YORKSHIRE DALES’ GREATEST WILDLIFE SPECTACLES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW.
Every autumn, Atlantic salmon make an extraordinary journey back from the sea and up the River Ribble towards the waters where they were born.
And near Settle, there’s a rather substantial obstacle in their way.
Stainforth Force.
Here, the salmon can be seen launching themselves from the water, attempting to clear the limestone falls as they continue upstream towards their spawning grounds.
And right now is one of the best times to see it.
The Ribble Rivers Trust says October and November are optimum months, particularly following heavy rainfall when higher river levels help the fish continue their journey upstream.
There’s some particularly encouraging news this year too. Surveys across the Ribble catchment in 2026 have recorded promising numbers of young Atlantic salmon, including more than 100 juveniles at one survey site in just a few minutes.
If you’re thinking of visiting Stainforth, patience is essential — seeing a salmon isn’t guaranteed — and take particular care around the water and slippery rocks.
But catch it on the right day, after the rain…
and you might witness one of the most remarkable sights of a Yorkshire Dales autumn.
Has anyone spotted them at Stainforth yet this year?
If you’ve captured a photograph or video of the 2026 salmon run, we’d love to see your genuine Dales footage in the comments.
Yorkshire Dales Uncovered — the people, places, wildlife and stories of the Dales.
