Summerhill Force & Gibson’s Cave
Bowlees vistiors Centre
Summerhill Force & Gibson’s cave is a waterfall located in Bowlees County Durham. Summerhill Force is often overlooked due to it’s close proximity to other waterfalls. Namely Low Force, and High Force, which both lie or the nearby river Tees.
The visitors centre at bowlees is operated by the North Pennine AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty) and is a gateway to the UNESCO Global Geopark.
Summerhill Force and gibsons cave in the spring
Nestled in the woodland clough, this picturesque waterfall is located on Flushimere and Bow Lee back. Bow lee beck eventually joins the river Tees near Newbiggin. The falls is a popular location with both locals and tourists. It is also a popular stop oof along the penne way. If you’s like, check out one of my YouTube videos where I hike a section of the Pennine way, which include Low force and Gibson’s cave.
As you can see from the selection of images i have included in this article. The falls offers a wide range of photographic opportunities. Each season brings a different feel to the location. I find as with most waterfalls, it’s best to photograph the location after a decent downpouring of rain.
How to Photograph Woodland
Summerhill Force, Nikon D500 Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 - 10 Seconds f/16 Iso 50
The waterfall is called Summerhill force, the recess or cave, behind is what we call Gibson’s cave. The names are often used interchangeably.
Local lore has it, back in the 16th century. An outlaw by the name f William Gibson hid in the cave whilst on the run from the authorities in nearby Barnard castle. The locals who apparently like young Gibson, would bring him food and clothing. Eventually the cave took his name.
Summerhill Force & Gibson’s Cave
Name: Summerhill Force, County Durham
Place type: Waterfall
Location: Grid Ref: NY 9097 2864 • X/Y co-ords: 390971, 528646 • Lat/Long: 54.65280151,-2.14147970
County/Unitary Authority: County Durham
Region: North East
Country: England
Height: 313.2m
OS Explorer map: OL31: North Pennines
