Walks in Wensleydale
About Walks in Wensleydale
Walks in Wensleydale follow the River Ure through Hawes, Leyburn and Askrigg, passing waterfalls such as Aysgarth Falls. Combine this walk with an ascent of Whernside, one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. [Source: Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority] Wensleydale offers excellent walking along the River Ure and up onto the surrounding fells. Popular routes include the Aysgarth Falls walk (1-3 miles), the walk to Semer Water from Bainbridge (4 miles), the climb to Addleborough from Askrigg (5 miles), and the Pennine Way section from Hawes to Cam High Road. The dale also offers routes to the waterfalls of Hardraw Force and Cotter Force.
Best Walks in Walks in Wensleydale
Wensleydale offers excellent walking along the River Ure and up onto the surrounding fells. Popular routes include the Aysgarth Falls walk (1-3 miles), the walk to Semer Water from Bainbridge (4 miles), the climb to Addleborough from Askrigg (5 miles), and the Pennine Way section from Hawes to Cam High Road. The dale also offers routes to the waterfalls of Hardraw Force and Cotter Force.
Location & Nearest Towns
Walks in Wensleydale is in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire, England. The nearest towns are Hawes, Leyburn, Askrigg. Nearby places include Hawes, Leyburn, Askrigg, Aysgarth.
Interesting Facts
- Wensleydale is named after the village of Wensley rather than the river that flows through it — the River Ure. This is one of only a few Yorkshire Dales not named after its river.
- Hardraw Force, near Hawes, is England's highest unbroken waterfall at over 30 metres, and is accessed through the Green Dragon Inn.
- Wensleydale cheese, one of Britain's most famous cheeses, has been made in the dale since the 12th century, originally by Cistercian monks at Jervaulx Abbey.
Visitor Tips for Walks in Wensleydale
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for walking in Wensleydale.
Sturdy hiking boots, waterproofs, an OS Explorer map and compass, walking poles for steep descents, and water and snacks. For the Three Peaks, add a headtorch and extra warm layers.
Trailheads at Hawes, Askrigg and Aysgarth Car parks in Hawes, Aysgarth and Leyburn. Free roadside parking in smaller villages.
Dogs are welcome on Wensleydale paths but must be kept on a lead near livestock and ground-nesting birds. On open access land, keep dogs on a short lead from March to July.
Walking in Walks in Wensleydale
Walks in Wensleydale sits within Wensleydale and offers walks rated easy to moderate. The area falls under Yorkshire Dales National Park. Whether you're after a gentle riverside stroll or a challenging fell walk, Wensleydale delivers some of the best walks in the dales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best walks in Wensleydale?
Popular walks include the Aysgarth Falls circuit, routes around Hawes, and the ascent of Whernside. Popular walks include the Aysgarth Falls walk (1-3 miles), the Semer Water circuit from Bainbridge (4 miles), the Hardraw Force walk (1 mile), and the Pennine Way section from Hawes (6 miles).
How difficult are walks in Wensleydale?
Wensleydale offers walks for most abilities, from easy riverside paths to moderate fell walks. Wensleydale offers walks for all abilities, from the easy Aysgarth Falls stroll to moderate fell walks up Addleborough and Semer Water.
When is the best time to walk in Wensleydale?
Spring to autumn offers the best conditions. The waterfalls are most dramatic after rainfall. Spring to autumn offers the best conditions. The waterfalls are most dramatic after winter rain. Winter walks on the fells require full hillwalking gear.
Why Visit Walks in Wensleydale?
Walks in Wensleydale is one of the finest areas for Yorkshire Dales walks in Wensleydale, North Yorkshire. Browse our complete guide to Yorkshire Dales walks to discover more routes to explore.
Nearby Yorkshire Dales Walks to Explore
Looking beyond Walks in Wensleydale? These nearby walks are worth exploring.