Top 20 Natural Monuments around Askrigg

The Askrigg area is rich in natural monuments, primarily featuring spectacular waterfalls and significant geological formations. You'll find dramatic cascades like Mill Gill Force and Hardraw Force, along with the stepped Aysgarth Falls. The landscape is also shaped by unique geological features such as the underlying Askrigg Block, which influences the distinctive limestone scars and terraces of the Yorkshire Dales.

Yes, beyond Aysgarth Falls, you can explore several other impressive waterfalls. Just outside Askrigg, you'll find Mill Gill Force, a captivating multi-level waterfall, and Whitfield Gill Force, known for its 50-foot uninterrupted drop. Near Hawes, a short drive away, is Hardraw Force, England's highest single-drop waterfall above ground. Additionally, East Gill Force offers a 15-foot drop in a stunning location.

The Askrigg area is profoundly influenced by the Askrigg Block, a massive, invisible granite mass deep underground that formed around 400 million years ago. This geological stability has created the distinctive horizontal limestone scars and terraces seen throughout the Yorkshire Dales. The waterfalls, such as Aysgarth Falls, are also a product of the Yoredale geological series, formed over 300 million years ago, with their stepped formations resulting from layers of hard limestone and soft shale.

For panoramic views, consider visiting Great Shunner Fell Summit, the third-highest summit in the Yorkshire Dales, offering expansive vistas of the North Pennines, Lake District, and other Dales fells. Another excellent spot is Buttertubs Pass, a challenging mountain pass that provides magnificent views of the surrounding Swaledale landscape as you ascend.

The area around Askrigg is ideal for various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, especially to the numerous waterfalls. Cycling, both touring and road cycling, is also a favorite, with challenging routes like Buttertubs Pass. You can find more details on specific routes and activities in our guides, such as Waterfall hikes around Askrigg and Road Cycling Routes around Askrigg.

Yes, there are several hiking trails that allow you to explore multiple natural monuments. A popular circular walk from Askrigg visits Mill Gill Force and Whitfield Gill Force. Another option is to follow paths along the River Ure to experience the different stages of Aysgarth Falls. Our Waterfall hikes around Askrigg guide provides detailed routes.

Many natural monuments around Askrigg are suitable for families. The paths around Aysgarth Lower Falls and Aysgarth Middle Falls are well-maintained and offer easy access to stunning views. East Gill Force is also considered family-friendly and makes for a great picnic spot. The walk to Mill Gill Force is generally accessible, though some sections can be muddy or steep.

Yes, Aysgarth Middle Falls offers a dedicated disabled viewpoint, making it accessible for wheelchairs. This allows visitors to enjoy the magnificent sight of the water cascading into the river below.

The best time to visit often depends on what you want to see. The waterfalls, such as Mill Gill Force, Whitfield Gill Force, Aysgarth Falls, and Hardraw Force, are particularly spectacular after heavy rainfall. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers like bluebells, while winter offers snowdrops and a unique, often quieter, experience of the falls. Autumn can be a good time to spot salmon leaping at Aysgarth Falls.

Yes, access to Hardraw Force, renowned as England's highest single-drop waterfall, is typically through a turnstile behind the Green Dragon Inn in Hardraw. As it is on private land, an admission fee is usually required to visit.

The natural monuments and their surroundings are home to diverse wildlife. Near Aysgarth Falls, you might spot wildflowers, various birds like dippers, pied and grey wagtails, squirrels, and even deer. In autumn, salmon can occasionally be seen leaping up the falls. The wooded dells around Mill Gill Force are known for snowdrops in winter and bluebells in spring.

The waterfalls around Askrigg are special due to their dramatic beauty, geological significance, and historical appeal. Many, like Aysgarth Falls, Mill Gill Force, and Hardraw Force, have inspired artists such as J.M.W. Turner and William Wordsworth. Their formations are a result of the unique Yoredale geological series, and they become particularly powerful and awe-inspiring after heavy rainfall, showcasing thousands of gallons of water cascading over limestone steps or plunging from rocky overhangs.