Highlight • Waterfall
Hiking
4.9
(202)
Aysgarth Upper Falls is a magnificent waterfall located on the River Ure in the heart of Wensleydale, within the expansive Yorkshire Dales National Park in North Yorkshire, England. Standing at an elevation of 196 metres, it is the uppermost and often considered the most dramatic of a spectacular triple flight of falls. This natural monument is renowned for its broad limestone steps, over which the River Ure cascades, creating a powerful and picturesque scene, especially after heavy rainfall.
Visitors consistently…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
November 13, 2018
Hiking
July 24, 2017
Hiking
July 5, 2023
Hiking
Nearby routes
Best routes near Aysgarth Upper Falls
4.9
(42)
248
hikers
3.93km
01:03
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(82)
422
hikers
12.0km
03:14
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(38)
283
hikers
13.6km
03:41
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
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The walk to Aysgarth Upper Falls from the National Park Centre car park is generally considered easy and suitable for most visitors, including families. The paths are well-maintained, but the terrain can include woodland paths and areas with broad limestone steps. While not overly challenging, comfortable footwear with good grip is recommended, especially after rain when surfaces might be slippery.
Yes, there are several popular walking routes that incorporate Aysgarth Upper Falls, often connecting it with the Middle and Lower Falls. Many hikers enjoy a circular walk that allows them to experience all three cascades and the surrounding woodland. These routes vary in length and can be explored further using a route planner to find one that suits your preferences.
While the main path from the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre to the Upper Falls is relatively well-maintained, the terrain around the falls themselves, with its natural limestone steps and woodland paths, may present challenges for wheelchairs or pushchairs. Some sections might be manageable, but full accessibility to all viewpoints might be limited. It's best to check specific route conditions if accessibility is a primary concern.
The most convenient parking is available at the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre (postcode DL8 3TH). This car park is approximately 350 meters from the Upper Falls. There is typically a fee for parking, which contributes to the upkeep of the National Park facilities. Arriving earlier in the day, especially during peak season or weekends, is advisable as the car park can fill up quickly.
Yes, Aysgarth Upper Falls and the surrounding trails are generally dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs here. However, it's important to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, other visitors, and to protect the local wildlife and environment. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
Near the Upper Falls, you'll find the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre which often includes facilities like toilets and a gift shop. Additionally, Yore Mill, a historic building close to the Upper Falls, now houses a craft shop and gallery. The nearby village of Aysgarth offers further amenities, including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options for those looking to extend their stay in Wensleydale.
Absolutely. While beautiful at any time, Aysgarth Upper Falls is particularly dramatic and powerful after heavy rainfall. The River Ure swells significantly, transforming the cascades into a gushing torrent that showcases the true force of nature. This is often considered the best time to witness the falls at their most spectacular.
Aysgarth Upper Falls is geologically significant due to its distinctive formation of broad limestone steps. These are part of the Yoredale series, dating back over 300 million years to the Carboniferous period. The horizontal layers of hard limestone interspersed with softer shale bands, further sculpted by glacial activity, create the unique cascading effect. The area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Yes, the village of Aysgarth and the surrounding Wensleydale area offer various accommodation options. You can find guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and holiday cottages suitable for different budgets and preferences. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Aysgarth Falls has a rich history, captivating visitors for over 200 years. Renowned figures like the poet William Wordsworth and the artist J.M.W. Turner were inspired by its beauty. It also gained modern fame as a filming location for the 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, featuring a memorable swordfight scene. The name 'Aysgarth' itself has Old Norse origins, meaning 'the open space in the oak trees'.
While the falls themselves are a major attraction, exploring the surrounding Freeholders' Wood Local Nature Reserve can reveal hidden gems. This ancient woodland is home to diverse flora and fauna, including seasonal wildflowers, deer, and reintroduced dormice. Taking time to wander off the main path (while staying on marked trails) can offer quieter moments and different perspectives of the natural beauty.