Aysgarth Falls

Aysgarth Falls
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Marker
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
30m

Waterfall height

Aysgarth Falls is one of the most famous groups of waterfalls in the area, and it’s just a few minutes’ drive to reach. With a combination of forest trails and cascading waterfalls, it’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Plan your visit to Aysgarth Falls

Please verify on the official website before you go

Why is Aysgarth Falls famous?

Aysgarth Falls gained international fame as a filming location for Kevin Costner's Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) in the dramatic fight scene. The falls are also celebrated as one of the Yorkshire Dales' most spectacular natural features, cascading in three main tiers over broad limestone shelves carved by glacial meltwater.

Can you swim at Aysgarth Falls?

No — the fast-flowing water and rocky riverbed make swimming dangerous and it is not recommended. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Are dogs allowed at Aysgarth Falls?

Dogs allowed on-leash on trails and grounds. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Is Aysgarth Falls free? Do you need a permit?

No entry fee for the falls themselves, but parking charges apply at the National Park Centre car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Is there parking at Aysgarth Falls?

Pay and display car park at the National Park Centre with toilets and facilities; fee applies (typically around £3-5 for several hours). The Upper Falls are a short walk from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.

How long is the hike to Aysgarth Falls?

About 1.5 km / 1 mile circular walk to see all three main falls (Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls) from the main car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Aysgarth Falls hike difficulty

Easy — mostly level woodland paths and stepped trails alongside the River Ure, suitable for most fitness levels. Please verify on the official website before you go.

When is the best time to visit Aysgarth Falls?

Spring and early summer (April–June) or after heavy rainfall for most dramatic flow; autumn (September–October) offers beautiful foliage. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Route and trail notes for Aysgarth Falls

From the National Park Centre car park, the Upper Falls are immediately accessible via a short path. For the full experience, follow the riverside path downstream through woodland to reach the Middle Falls, then continue further to the Lower Falls. The path includes some steps and can be slippery when wet. Return via the same route or use the circular path options.

Attractions near Aysgarth Falls

  • Bolton Castle — medieval fortress about 4 miles away, dating from 1399
  • Hardraw Force — England's highest single-drop waterfall, about 7 miles northwest
  • Wensleydale Creamery (Hawes) — famous for Wensleydale cheese, about 10 miles west
  • Semerwater — glacial lake with walking trails, about 8 miles northwest
  • Middleham Castle — ruined royal fortress, childhood home of Richard III, about 7 miles east

Safety information

Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.

Full safety guide →

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