This walk through Herriot Country from Askrigg to Aysgarth starts on the higher land and returns along the River Ure. It passes through some stunning limestone scenery with outstanding views across Wensleydale.
No other walk sums up the Yorkshire Dales, and Wensleydale in particular, better than the delectable grassy path between Carperby and the village of Askrigg. The riverside return from Aysgarth Falls is a great contrast, following, as it does, the old railway line embankment. The higher level section starts via Newbiggin and a short woodland climb before passing under the lovely Ivy Scar on a series of pleasant tracks. Finally enjoy the unique character of the River Ure on the lower level return. Aysgarth Falls (Upper, Middle and Lower) is the star but there are long stretches of peaceful riverside walking as the river meanders along the valley floor.
A few things stood out for me when I first completed this walk on a glorious summer’s day. My favourite stretch of the walk was the shallow bowl of a valley hidden above the village of Woodhall enroute to Carperby. Not spotted from Lower Wensleydale it offers some of the best underfoot walking paths in the Dales. Also my inquisitive mind enjoyed the section along the Old Railway. Would it be ever possible to open again? Yes probably, but we need a friendly millionaire or a generous government.
This walk is one of my 20 Best walks in the Yorkshire Dales.
It is a long walk anyway and it is possible to extend it further to include Castle Bolton (a couple of miles each way). The views of Castle Bolton are hidden except at one point when you walk down from Carperby towards the Lower Falls.
One of those walks where you will never go far wrong but can easily lose 15 minutes with a wrong turning. The key decision spots are on the higher path under Ivy Scar, at the farm on entering Carperby and just after the upper falls when the path circles Bear Park. My tip is to keep a close eye on your map, the details are all there.
Competed this last weekend but in reverse. Starting Askrigg along the valley bottom to Aysgarth and returning below the the scars but high enough up on the North side of the valley to give amazing views and found some lead ore (Galena) on the path half way back to Askrigg. Lovely route, views, weather and company to share it with.
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