There’s something quietly magical about River Ure walks — that feeling of following water through a changing landscape, the sound of birdsong echoing across meadows, and the knowledge that this same river has shaped the valley for thousands of years. From the doorstep of Karnten Cottage in Askrigg, you can reach the banks of the River Ure in just a few minutes, and from there, the possibilities unfold for every kind of walker and every kind of dog.
The Ure cuts its way through Wensleydale with calm confidence, bordered by ancient dry-stone walls, flower-dotted pastures, and the occasional sheepdog trotting home from work. But while the scenery is beautiful, it’s the sheer variety of routes that truly make these trails special. Whether you’re planning a gentle morning stroll or a full afternoon out with a picnic and a well-earned pub stop, the River Ure walks in Wensleydale are a must-do.
Detailed River Ure Walks from Askrigg
Starting directly from Karnten Cottage, you have a few fantastic options. These aren’t about speed or mileage—they’re about presence and the simple joy of discovery.
1. The Gentle Bainbridge Stroll (2-3 miles, flat)
This is the perfect route for a morning leg-stretch or a relaxed afternoon. From the village of Askrigg, take the footpath down to the riverbank, heading east. The path is flat and easy underfoot, following the river as it meanders through open fields. Your turnaround point is the picturesque village of Bainbridge. From here, you can cross the bridge and walk back along the road for a different perspective. For a quick pint or a hearty lunch to break up your River Ure walk, The Rose & Crown in Bainbridge is a great stop before heading back to Askrigg.
2. The Hardraw Loop & Hardraw Force (4-5 miles)
This walk offers a bit more variety and takes you past a couple of Wensleydale’s most iconic spots. Head north out of Askrigg towards the village of Hardraw. You’ll pass the famous Green Dragon Inn, which is also the entry point to England’s largest single drop waterfall, Hardraw Force. This makes a great stop for a break and a photo opportunity. From Hardraw, you can follow the footpath back towards the river, crossing the footbridge near Sedbusk, and then following the meadows back into Askrigg. This particular River Ure walk is a personal favourite for its mix of classic Dales scenery and iconic landmarks.
3. The Aysgarth Falls Excursion (7-8 miles, circular)
For those feeling truly adventurous, this is the ultimate walk. Start as you would for the Bainbridge stroll, but instead of turning back, continue to follow the river downstream. The route will take you all the way to the breathtaking Aysgarth Falls, a triple-tier cascade that is famous for its appearance in the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. This makes a spectacular picnic spot, and the visitor centre has amenities. For a pub lunch or a pint, The Aysgarth Falls Hotel is an excellent choice. From there, you can either retrace your steps or take one of the higher footpaths for a different perspective on your journey back to Askrigg. This full-day River Ure walk truly showcases the power and beauty of the Dales’ most famous river.
Beyond Askrigg: Other Fantastic River Ure Walks Nearby
While Askrigg offers an incredible starting point, the beauty of the River Ure can be explored from many other charming villages, all within a short drive of Karnten Cottage. These routes offer different perspectives on the valley and provide new landscapes to discover.
4. The Hawes & Gayle Loop (3-4 miles)
A short drive from Askrigg will take you to the bustling market town of Hawes. From here, a beautiful circular River Ure walk starts near the Dales Countryside Museum. Follow the footpath out of Hawes towards the small hamlet of Gayle, crossing the historic bridge over Gayle Beck. The path then joins the river, offering spectacular views of the water and the surrounding fells. This loop is a fantastic way to combine a scenic walk with a visit to the local shops and the famous Wensleydale Creamery. For a refreshing end to your walk, The White Hart in Hawes offers a warm welcome and great food.
5. The Muker Meadow Walk (4-5 miles)
While slightly further afield, the drive to Muker is a reward in itself, taking you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Yorkshire Dales. From the village of Muker, you can embark on a stunning River Ure walk that follows the river through a series of iconic hay meadows, famous for their beautiful wildflowers in the spring and early summer. The walk is relatively flat and offers a fantastic chance to see a more remote, wilder side of the valley. For a well-deserved post-walk beverage, The Farmers Arms in Muker is a classic Dales pub that feels like a trip back in time.
As you explore these beautiful River Ure walks, you’ll be treated to a quiet symphony of nature. Keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers darting low over the water in a flash of electric blue, herons standing tall and still, and busy wagtails bobbing along the edge of the water. The riverbanks offer welcome shade in summer, and a mix of grassy spots and flat stones that make for ideal flask-and-scone stops. The best River Ure walks aren’t about speed or mileage — they’re about presence and the simple joy of being outdoors. The River Ure won’t let you down.
For even more route ideas and downloadable maps, the Yorkshire Dales National Park guide is a great resource. You can also visit our blog post about a day trip to the The Green Dragon in Hardraw for more local tips.
One of the best things about staying at Karnten Cottage is how close you are to these quiet, beautiful stretches of nature. Once you’ve experienced the magic of one of these River Ure walks, you’ll likely want to experience another.