Location:
Aysgarth, Wensleydale
Map:
Ordnance Survey Explorer Map OL30 - Yorkshire Dales, Northern & Central areas
Description:
Aysgarth Falls is part of the Freeholders' Wood Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It comprises a gorge through which the River Ure descends by a series of stepped waterfalls consisting of horizontal layers of hard limestone separated by thin bands of soft shale. These rocks are part of the Yoredale geological series that were laid down on the sea floor over 300 million years ago.
The River Ure is typical of the clean rivers and streams of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is rich in wildlife. The waters are much revered by fishermen because brown trout, grayling and the nationally rare native white-clawed crayfish are present. There is also a rich variety of insect life – including mayflies and stoneflies – providing a good food source for fish and birds. On a warm summer evening trout may be seen in the quieter sections of the river jumping into the air to swallow flies. Several different sorts of bird also frequent the river. The dark brown dipper with its white breast may be seen ‘bobbing’ at the water’s edge or diving under the water for food. A number of species of wagtail can also be seen here.
Access and facilities:
Aysgarth Falls and the adjacent Freeholders' Wood are best accessed along the falls trail and other public rights of way shown on the Ordnance Survey map mentioned above. The Aysgarth Falls National Park Centre is adjacent to the nature reserve and has ample car parking, a shop, café and toilets.
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