Aysgarth Falls in Wensleydale
A moderate walk (riverside) in national park Yorkshire Dales starting and finishing in North Yorkshire, England, about 9.80km (6.09 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 2:45h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
13m (42ft)
Descent
120m (393ft)
Max. Elevation
230m (754ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
133m (435ft)
Start
Aysgarth
End
Wensley
Distance
9.80km
(6.09mi)
(6.09mi)
Duration
~2:45h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Map
Aysgarth Falls, formed as the River Ure crashes through the valley, are one of Yorkshire's best known beauty spots. The three waterfalls just outside the village of Aysgarth achieved global fame in the film 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves'.
Many people just go to see the falls, but take your time to enjoy more of Wensleydale's postcard-perfect scenery. This walk, between Aysgarth and Wensley, can be done in either direction - both villages are stops on the buses that serve the Dale.
Walk Functions
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Waypoints
OS Grid SE003884
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
OS Grid SE010884
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).
About 0.73 km (~0.45 miles) from 
OS Grid SE011886
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.
About 0.24 km (~0.15 miles) from 
OS Grid SE017888
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.
About 0.58 km (~0.36 miles) from 
OS Grid SE031895
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.
About 1.57 km (~0.98 miles) from 
OS Grid SE044900
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.
About 1.35 km (~0.84 miles) from 
OS Grid SE062898
Back along the river, through farmland, woodland - classic Wensleydale scenery.
About 1.79 km (~1.11 miles) from 
OS Grid SE091894
After passing through a narrow stretch of woodland, the path meets Wensley Bridge. Cross over into the village.
About 2.93 km (~1.82 miles) from 
WensleyOS Grid SE093895
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.
About 0.27 km (~0.17 miles) from 
