Aysgarth Falls - Aysgarth - Askrigg - Newbiggin - Aysgarth Falls

Ernest Beech

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The walk starts at Aysgarth Falls, perhaps the jewel in the crown that is Wensleydale. Walking upriver through the backways of Aysgarth Village, we soon join once again the River Ure (Wensleydale is the only Yorkshire Dale that doesn't take its name from its river), before crossing it on a narrow footbridge. We continue along the riverside before taking an abandoned railway track to Nappa Mill and then crossomg field systems to the village of Askrigg, with its narrow streets and imposing stone houses.

From Askrigg we climb through the steep village streets towards Askrigg Common, before breaking off east towards the hamlet of Newbiggin and beyond through Newbiggin Pasture and woodland, under the shadow of Broomber. Oxclose Road, an ancient path, takes us over Disher Force and past a long-abandoned lead mine beneath Ivy Scar, all the while giving vast open views across the dale towards the ramparts of Addlebrough. Before dropping down the hillside towards the village of Carperby, Bolton Castle appears from among the trees to the east. The way then leads to the village of Carperby, through Freeholders Wood Nature Reserve and back to the starting point.

There is easy walking throughout on this varied ramble, but despite feeling remote at times the walker is never too far from civilisation. There is also the opportunity to shorten the walk if bad weather or aching legs intervene.

England - North England - Yorkshire - Yorkshire Dales

Features

Birds, Castle, Church, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Museum, Pub, River, Toilets, Wildlife

7/26/2021 - Helen Colley

Great walk! We started from Askrigg and took a short cut at Carperby from WP28 to WP9, missing out Aysgarth as we knew it would be rammed in summer holidays. At WP22 it is really worth a very short detour to visit a tiny chapel decorated by local artists with a stunning mosaic floor and stained glass windows. Instead of taking the left fork, head a few metres right towards the turning circle at the top if a metalled road, there is a bench in the middle of the turning circle. Just beyond this is a sign inviting you to visit the chapel, which is open 24/7. Go through a gate on the left, and follow flagstones around the bottom of the curved retaining wall of a garden. Then head right up a stepped path through trees to the chapel. The detour only takes 10 mins or so, but it’s a charming hidden gem. Retrace your steps to pick up the walk route.

7/11/2016 - Angie Baxter

Brilliant walk, stunning views. Loved it.