Address:
Church Bank, Aysgarth, Leyburn, DL8 3TH
History of Aysgarth Falls
Aysgarth Falls formed at the end of the last Ice Age, when powerful meltwater carved through layers of limestone along the River Ure. This created the three stepped waterfalls — Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls — that stretch for nearly a mile.
The surrounding area has been settled for centuries. The name Aysgarth comes from Old Norse, meaning “open space in the oak trees.” Nearby Yore Bridge was built in the 1500s and Yore Mill followed in the late 1700s, serving various industries including corn milling and textile processing.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, the falls became a celebrated beauty spot. Writers and artists such as Wordsworth, Turner, and Ruskin visited and helped popularise the site. In modern times the falls have appeared in films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Today, Aysgarth Falls is part of a protected landscape known for its geology, wildlife and long-standing appeal to visitors.
Timeline of Key Events
- 12,000 years ago – End of the last ice age: Glacial meltwater caves through the limestone of Wensleydale, forming the three stepped waterfalls of Aysgarth Falls.
- 5th-11th Century – Saxon Period: Early settlement develops in the area. The name Aysgarth originates from Old Norse, meaning ‘open space in the oak trees’.
- 1066-1485 – Medieval ownership: After the Norman Conquest, the land passes through several noble families, including Count Alan of Brittany and later Richard, Duke of Gloucester (Richard III).
- 1539 – Yore Bridge constructed: The stone bridge near the falls is built, becoming an important crossing over the River Ure.
- 1784 – Yore Mill built: A water-powered mill is established near the falls. Over time it serves as a corn mill, wool mill, flax mill and cotton mill.
- Late 1700s-1800s – Romantic era popularity: Artists and writers including William Wordsworth, Dorothy Wordsworth, J.M.W. Turner and John Ruskin visit and document the falls, helping to make them a celebrated beauty spot.
- 1800s – Tourisms grows: Aysgarth Falls becomes a well known destinations for travellers exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
- 20th Century – Industrial use ends: Yore Mill ceases industrial operation and later becomes home to the Yorkshire Carriage Museum.
- 1990s-2000s – Film appearances: The falls feature in several films, most famously Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
- Present day: Aysgarth Falls is protected within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its geology and wildlife.
Visitor Information
Opening Times
Waterfalls (The falls themselves):
- Open 24/7 all year round – there are no gates or restrictions
Aysgarth Falls National Park Visitor Centre:
- April-October: Daily, 10am-5pm
- November-March: Weekends only, 10am-4pm (closed all of January)
Tickets & Pricing
Entry to the waterfalls:
- Free – there is no admission to visit Aysgarth Falls
Car Park at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre:
- £3.80 for up to 2 hours
- £6.00 for over 2 hours
- Blue Badge holders get an extra hour free
Top Things To Do
- Walk the Upper, Middle & Lower Falls — Three spectacular limestone‑step waterfalls along the River Ure, each with its own viewpoint and character.
- Explore the Woodland Trails — Gentle, family‑friendly paths through peaceful woodland linking all three falls.
- Visit the National Park Visitor Centre — Maps, guides, toilets, parking, and local information.
- See the Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves film location — The Upper Falls were used for the famous fight scene between Robin Hood and Little John.
- Enjoy riverside photography — Long‑exposure shots, dramatic cascades, and seasonal colours make this a favourite spot for photographers.
- Picnic by the river — Plenty of quiet areas near the Lower Falls and woodland edges.
- Spot wildlife — Look for dippers, herons, kingfishers, and woodland birds along the river.
- Visit nearby attractions
Films Shot at Aysgarth Falls
- Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights
- Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves