Aysgarth Falls have attracted visitors for over 200 years. Ruskin, Turner and Wordsworth visited, all enthusing about the falls’ outstanding beauty. In the 19th century Aysgarth was a staging post. Travellers would make their way down to view the falls from the bridge. Today, many will recognise the Upper Falls from the film Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves.
Nearby is Yore Mill, once a cotton mill, later used for corn, then cloth. High above is St. Andrew’s Parish Church, the mother church of upper Wensleydale, which houses the beautiful Rood Screen from Jervaulx Abbey.
Visitors are also drawn to Freeholders’ Wood, where the ancient art of coppicing is still carried out. Here you will find hazel, ash and wild cherry, among others. The woodland is carpeted with wildflowers in spring and is home to over 120 species; birds abound. The National Park Centre staff take pride in sharing their knowledge and encouraging a wider understanding of this special area. Take a break in the Coppice coffee shop adjoining the Information Centre, which offers home cooking with an emphasis on special diets. Both are suitable for the disabled. Parking is available and there are walks to suit everyone.