Circular Walk from Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre

A lovely walk on a stunning morning from Aysgarth Falls Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre. Just over three miles but well worth exploring and the views across to Penhill, into Bishopdale and Walden were just wonderful. A friend asked if I would like to walk with her and so off we set. She took me on paths untrodden by me before, always exciting as you know, and it was nice for me to not have to think about which path to take.

Even though it’s just a short walk please do wear appropriate clothing and footwear, take snacks and drinks. Do plan your route beforehand and take the map, GPS and compass with you for guidance.

Park in the Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre and head off to the exit of the car park, east. Turn right at the road, follow the path down for a few yards and cross over the road to go through the little gate into Freeholders Wood. Lots to explore in here and viewing points for the Middle Force and Lower Force. It was here that we walked on a new path, for me, down to the Lower Force. Hate to say it but I probably haven’t been on this side of the river for forty years, can’t remember, as I always walk on the other side of the River Ure.

Continue through the wood, coming out into a field, follow the path and keep going until you reach Hollins Farm. As you go along you will notice there are lots of trees that have been planted, apparently there is going to four thousand plus planted in total and the intention is to make a nature reserve. Continue through the buildings and continue up the track to the next footpath sign on your right. Through here and keep going in the direction of High Thoresby. Our route doesn’t take us High Thoresby as you will need to turn left when you get the wall as indicated on the map OS Grid Ref: SE 02392 89831.

Follow the wall, west, to the disused railway line, under the bridge, keep going to come out onto the Low Lane. Walk along here, past the two houses, with associated buildings, and a few yards after the second house you will see two stiles opposite one another, take the one off to the left. Down through a couple of fields, following the stiles to come out into Freeholders Wood again. Turn right and follow the path out onto the road. Turn left, walk down the hill, under the large bridge then turn right into the National Park Centre.

There is a café here attached to the centre, the Coppice Cafe, which I presume has the same opening times as the Centre and not open all year round though the car park is of course and there is the Mill Race Teashop at the bridge. Please check their websites for opening times.

Do come and enjoy this walk, stay in one of our beautiful Country Hideaway holiday cottages. 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.

See you very soon!