Wensleydale Walk

12.4 miles (20 km)

This walk takes you from the village of Wensley, along the River Ure to Redmire Force and the Aysgarth Falls. It's a nice waterside trail with great views of the beautiful Wensleydale countryside to enjoy.
The walk starts in the small Richmondshire village of Wensley, which gives its name to Wensleydale.... You then cross Wensley Bridge over the River Ure and pick up the footpaths on the southern side of the river. The trail heads west through the riverside woodland toward Redmire Force waterfall. The multi-drop waterfall is a fine sight, and a much more peaceful area than it's nearby neighbours at Aysgarth.
The route continues to Slapestone Wath where there are a number of stepping stones over the river. You could cross the river here and head north to visit Castle Bolton with its fine 14th century castle. This route continues west to the wonderful Aysgarth Falls where there are woodland trails, a nature reserve and an excellent visitor centre.
The Herriot Way long distance footpath runs through the area so you could pick this up to extend your walking. The circular route takes you through areas of the Yorkshire Dales associated with the vet and author James Herriot.
Pubs and More Info
The Three Horseshoes in Wensley is a fine old whitewashed stone pub, perfect for some post walk refreshments. There's a nice gazebo outside where you can relax on warmer days and a cosy interior with a neat beamed and flagstoned bar, serving five well kept ales. You can find the pub in the village at a postcode of DL8 4HJ for your sat navs.
On the western side of the dale there's a lovely circular walk to try around Semer Water. The beautiful lake is notable as the second largest natural lake in North Yorkshire, England after Malham Tarn. Near here there's also the worthy village of Bainbridge. The village includes views of the River Bain and a 15th century hotel which is one of the oldest in Yorkshire.
On the eastern side of the dale you'll find one of the historic highlights of the area at Jervaulx Abbey. The 12th century ruined abbey is surrounded by 126 acres of attractive parkland with wildflowers, grazing sheep, a pretty pond and fine views of the surrounding North Yorkshire countryside. Just to the north of here you'll also find the picturesque Thornton Steward Reservoir where there's a peaceful waterside trail. The noteworthy village of Constable Burton and the historic Constable Burton Hall are located in this area too. The grade-I-listed Georgian mansion includes some beautiful grounds with peaceful woodland, pretty becks and delightful gardens to see.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Yorkshire Dales Walks page.