Fell Beck facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fell Beck |
|
|---|---|
Fell Beck above Gaping Gill
|
|
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 54°08′58″N 2°22′57″W / 54.1495°N 2.3826°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Wenning, Lune |
| River system | Lune |
Fell Beck is a cool stream found near the bottom of a big hill called Ingleborough. It is located in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park in the UK. This stream is super famous because it flows right into a huge natural cave shaft called Gaping Gill.
Contents
The Amazing Journey of Fell Beck
When Fell Beck reaches Gaping Gill, it plunges down a massive hole! This natural cave shaft is the second largest in the whole UK. The water falls for an incredible 110 metres (about 360 feet). This makes it the tallest unbroken waterfall in the United Kingdom.
Where Does the Water Go?
After its huge drop, the water from Fell Beck travels underground. It later comes out as another stream called Clapham Beck. This happens at Beck Head Cave, which is right next to Ingleborough Cave.
Scientists and cave explorers have confirmed this amazing underground journey. In 1983, brave cave divers explored the passages. Many years before that, they used special fluorescent dye tests. They put dye in Fell Beck and watched it appear in Clapham Beck. This proved the connection!
Exploring Gaping Gill
Sometimes, a temporary dam is built to block off Fell Beck. This stops the water from falling into Gaping Gill. When the waterfall is turned off, it allows people to go down into the shaft. They use a special winch system to descend safely. It's a unique chance to see this incredible natural wonder from the inside!
Fell Beck's Path to the Sea
After leaving the cave system as Clapham Beck, the water continues its journey. It flows past the village of Clapham. Then, Clapham Beck joins a larger river called the River Wenning. The River Wenning then flows into the mighty River Lune. Finally, the water from Fell Beck reaches the Irish Sea.
