A surprising walk from Aysgarth, footpaths I haven’t walked and some a long time ago. Setting off from Aysgarth you’re soon up onto moor land and enjoying panoramic views along the length of Wensleydale. Bishopdale, Addlebrough, Bolton Castle, and much more all come in to view. To get the full enjoyment from this walk do pick a clear day to take advantage of the amazing views. Between four and five miles but pretty easy going apart from tufting moorland ground in places.
Do please wear suitable clothing, the weather can change whilst you’re out even if setting off in bright sunshine. Good stout boots as there may be some wet ground. Plan your route beforehand and take GPS, map, compass plenty of water and snacks.
Park in Aysgarth where you can, in the lay-by or near to the monument perhaps and head off in a westerly direction towards the junction for Thornton Rust, take this road. A few yards further on you’ll see a stile off to the left, through here then continue up the path and through two fields. Where the path forks take the path to go bear right, south west, you can see the next stile ahead of you in the wall. Continue on through the fields, over stiles, some are signed others not so concentrate on both your route and what is ahead. Eventually you’ll come out at Folly Lane, turn left down the hill, over the little footbridge, into the next field.
From here go up the hill towards the wall on your left, there is a vague footpath but at the top there is a little gate to go through. Now keep to the wall side for a while and then head off to Keld Gill, there is a gate with stile and sign post with three directions. Once here go in the direction of Thornton Rust, keep going until you come out on Flout Moor Lane. Turn right here and follow the track to the road to Thornton Rust from Aysgarth. Once on the road turn left, west, and walk along the road for a few yards until you come to a track off to the right to take you to Seata Mines. Follow through Seata Mines, a good place to stop for a breather and enjoy the views up Wensleydale.
Continue out of the quarry, following the path and once at the gate and footpath to Lowgill Bridge don’t go through the gate but continue on by the wall more or less east. Keep the wall on your left and walk to the corner of the field to a stile. Through here, turn left and follow the path back to the road to Thornton Rust. Turn left and make your way back to Aysgarth.
Hamilton’s Tea Shop is good place to go or travel to Wensleydale Ice Cream Parlour in the direction of Hawes.
Do come and stay in one of our beautiful Country Hideaways holiday cottages and enjoy this walk and many others too! Call me, Nadine, or my daughter Joanne, on 01969 663559 to book over the telephone and for friendly help and advice or, of course, do book online if you prefer.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Written By Nadine Bell







