Aysgarth Falls yorkshire

James Herriot Way

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Inspiration / James Herriot Way

The James Herriot Way is a 52-mile walk through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, taking in some of its finest scenery on the way. It climbs the highest peak in Yorkshire, passes historic monuments and explores the beautiful Wensleydale and Swaledale.

The route is named after the world-famous vet James Herriot, and passes a number of spots associated with him and is usually tackled over 4 days.

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Useful Information

Start point

Aysgarth village

End point

Aysgarth village

Wheelchair Accessible

No

Distance

52 miles

Shape

Circular

Area of natural beauty
The Walk
Directions
  • Route is often split into 4, approximately equal 13-mile legs to be completed across 4 days
  • Enjoy one of Yorkshire’s highest points, and get the opportunity to experience iconic views, natural landmarks and historic sites
  • The route is names after well-known vet James Herriot and passes a series of his favoured spots
Disclaimer

Sykes Cottages has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this website. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Sykes Cottages does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained on this website.

Directions

These directions are set into four sections according to the recommended four-day completion time.

  • Day 1: Aysgarth to Hawes – Walk north out of Aysgarth and along the banks of the River Ure, where luscious meadows and a disused railway track can also be found before turning towards Askrigg, where Herriot’s TV series was filmed. From here, head down the Wensleydale Valley and through winding lanes to Hardraw village famed for its stunning waterfall. You will then reach Hawes where you can rest for the night
  • Day 2: Hawes to Keld – At the start of the second leg, this Yorkshire walk tackles the Great Shunner Fell, the area’s third-highest mountain. You will join the popular Pennine Way footpath for a while. Admire the far-reaching views across hills and peaks before heading towards Thwaite. You will stumble across the lower fringes of Kisdon, then walk along to the settlement of Keld
  • Day 3: Keld to Reeth (Higher Route) – The more avid hiker can swap fields and fells for the stunning landscapes of Gunnerside Moor. After a slight climb, the route turns back to the valley and greets you with the stunning River Swale, before leading you through some fields and on to Reeth
  • Day 3: Kelf to Reeth (Low Route) – Those seeking an easier walk on the Herriot Way will loosely follow the banks of the Riber Swale, also heading through Kisdon Gorge at Swaledale’s head and leads you along paths through luscious meadows on your journey to Gunnerside. The route crosses the water, then follows the riverside paths until crossing once more as you reach Reeth
  • Day 4: Reeth to Aysgarth – Start the return leg of this Yorkshire walk by finding the Grinton Lodge Youth Hostel just beyond the village of Reeth, be welcomed by heather and moorland across Gibbon Hill and head along Apedale Road. Stumble across Dent’s Houses until a steep drop in the path brings you towards Castle Bolton village. The last leg incorporates fields and lanes, passing the stunning waterfalls in Aysgarth before finally reaching the village once again
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