Aysgarth Falls

Aysgarth Falls is a series of three waterfalls (Upper, Mid, Lower) on the River Ure in Wensleydale. The walk along the river is set in pretty woodland. However there are access points to the falls themselves.

The Walk

Aysgarth Falls is an impressive stretch of the River Ure in mid Wensleydale. The Ure passes over three rocky ‘ledges’. Recently I visited the falls after a period of heavy rain, Aysgarth Falls looked mighty impressive and very powerful. Powerful water is great to look at, almost mesmeric, and this is the best place in the Yorkshire Dales to enjoy it. There are viewing platforms at the each of the falls but I enjoy getting as close to the water as possible. Fortunately there is a stretch of rock below the lower falls where anyone can sit right on the water’s edge.

The famous scene in Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, when Robin tackled Little John, was filmed at the Upper Falls. The Upper Falls lie just upstream of the road bridge (the mid and lower falls are below) and there is a grassy bank to watch the water flow. At the mid and lower falls the land has been sympathetically landscaped by the falls. As a result there is a wide path leading through the attractive woods (suitable for wheelchair/pushchair users). There is still a sense of wildness about the area which has attracted so much attention over the years.

This is also James Herriot country and I have therefore extended this walk away the river and through the village of Carperby (where the Herriot’s honeymooned) adding a few miles but considerable interest to the walk. The views of Castle Bolton may also entice walkers to go the extra 2 miles. However I have preferred to keep the walk to Bolton Castle separate from this.

Recommend

Aysgarth Falls is best visited after rains to enjoy it to the full but a summer’s day loitering on the banks is still worthwhile.

Navigation Tips for Aysgarth Falls

Take care on the road near the bridge between the Upper and Mid Falls.