Walk Details
Located on the River Ure in Lower Wensleydale, the Aysgarth Falls are a series of three waterfalls. The name comes from old Norse, meaning ‘the open space in the oak trees’.
Creative talents have been inspired by this place – Wordsworth spent his honeymoon here, the artist Turner sketched the falls in 1816 when making illustrations for ‘A General History of the County of York’ by Thomas Dunham Whitaker.
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In more recent times – it was also used for the famous fight scene between Robin Hood and Little John in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves.
Our walk today begins at the Visitor Centre. It’s a signposted walk that passes through ancient coppiced hazel woodland and offers views of the middle fall from a specially made platform. You can view the lower falls via a staircase and as the path winds its way back towards the carpark – you are taken along the route of the top falls.
Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go – you may spot deer or perhaps a red squirrel. If you visit in the springtime – the woodland will have a beautiful carpet of primroses and bluebells.
It’s also worth taking a moment to explore the Visitor Centre, gift shop and the cafe.
Access TOG Verdict:
Whilst access to the lower falls is not possible for wheelchair users, it’s great to be able to see the other two. The route back round across the top falls is a little rocky so if you’re in a manual wheelchair this may be a little challenging for you and be in need of a helping hand! There is blue badge parking in the car park and accessible toilets (RADAR).
Nearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Northallerton, Darlington
