Comment(2 votes)
End: Wensley, OS Grid: SE093896 Elevation Profile (x: waypoint number, y: metres)
Gain (+/- 10%): 61m (202ft)
Total (+/- 10%): 229m (754ft)
Loss (+/- 10%): 168m (552ft)
Max. Elevation: 230m (754ft)
Public Transport
OS Explorer Map:
OL30 - Yorkshire Dales: N & Cen areas
Buy it with 10% off & free shipping!
GPX-Download
Sponsor
Waypoints
Aysgarth is classic Yorkshire Dales - the kind of village the tourists love to see. From the bus stop in the village centre, there are clear signposts to Aysgarth Falls. The Dalesbus runs to Aysgarth and to the finish point: www.dalesbus.org
Aysgarth Falls comprise three separate waterfalls. High Force was used in the Robin Hood film, where Robin and Little John had their fight. You can see it from the bridge across the river. It is also possible to walk right up to it, but there is a small charge (it's private land).
To see Middle Force, carry on over the bridge into Freeholders' Wood. You then need to backtrack over the bridge to continue the walk. If you are finishing at Aysgarth, the Coppice Cafe in the visitor centre is a welcome sight.
Retrace your steps to the south side of the river to continue the walk. The footpath soon meets the riverbank, giving you excellent views of Lower Force, the third of the falls at Aysgarth.
While most tourists turn back after the waterfalls, walkers will enjoy continuing along what is a beautiful riverside stroll. It's an easy walk for the rest of the way. The footpath follows the river, so navigation is simple and you can just enjoy the views.
Redmire Force is another well known waterfall on the River Ure. Smaller than Aysgarth Falls, it makes up for this with an unspoilt setting and fewer people.
Back along the river, through farmland, woodland - classic Wensleydale scenery.
After passing through a narrow stretch of woodland, the path meets Wensley Bridge. Cross over into the village.
The end of the walk (or the start if you are going the other way). Wensley - the village which gives the dale its name - is famous for its old medieval church, which has a Saxon stone, medieval brasses and 14th century wall paintings. Continue into the village for cafes, a pub and the bus back home.
Leave a comment!
