Best waterfalls around Leyburn are found in a region of North Yorkshire known for its natural beauty. Leyburn, a market town, is surrounded by diverse landscapes featuring several notable waterfalls. These natural attractions offer distinct features and experiences for visitors exploring the area. The region provides opportunities to observe various geological formations and water features.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
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On the River Ure in Wensleydale you have the quaint village of Aysgarth, and from here you have access to Aysgarth Falls. The falls comprise a series of three waterfalls, Upper, Mid, and Lower. If you wish to see the falls on the south side of the river, then there is a good walk from Aysgarth via beautiful St. Oswalds Church.
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Located in the village of West Burton, Cauldron Falls are available for enjoyment by just about anyone - it's an easy walk right from the village. It is a beautiful spot - it was, in fact, one of the spots painted by Turner on his travels in the Dales.
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Beautiful waterfalls which were used in the Kevin Costner version of Robin Hood for the river fight with Little John.
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Though not the highest waterfalls they are definitely worth a visit.
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Though not the highest waterfalls they are still definitely worth a visit.
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Brilliant falls which all must be seen if in the area.
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Brilliant waterfall which must all be seen if in the area
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Yes, several waterfalls near Leyburn are suitable for families. Aysgarth Lower Falls, Aysgarth Upper Falls, and Cauldron Falls are all listed as family-friendly. Harmby Waterfall is also known for being family and dog-friendly, offering a tranquil setting for a quick visit.
For wheelchair accessibility, Aysgarth Middle Falls offers a disabled viewpoint. Hardraw Force also has an easy and accessible walk to the falls, even for those with prams or wheelchairs, though it requires passing through the Green Dragon Inn.
Yes, many waterfalls in the area are dog-friendly. Harmby Waterfall is particularly noted for being dog-friendly, with opportunities for dogs to paddle in the river. Aysgarth Falls also offers multiple trails suitable for dog walkers.
The waterfalls around Leyburn have notable historical and cultural connections. Aysgarth Falls inspired artists like J.M.W. Turner and William Wordsworth, and its upper falls were a filming location for 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.' J.M.W. Turner also sketched Cauldron Force in 1816. Hardraw Force was also featured in 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' and hosts an annual brass band festival in its natural amphitheater.
Yes, you can find opportunities for wild swimming. Cauldron Force (West Burton Falls) is known for its deep, cauldron-like plunge pool where visitors can swim, though the water can be chilly.
For easy walks, Cauldron Force is easily accessible right from the village of West Burton. Harmby Waterfall is also ideal for a quick visit, and a popular local circular walk from Leyburn incorporates it. Hardraw Force offers an easy and accessible walk to the falls. You can find an 'easy' rated route like the Chambers Coffee House – Harmby Waterfall loop from Leyburn, which is 7.3 km long.
You can expect to see diverse natural features. Aysgarth Falls showcases a triple flight of waterfalls over broad limestone steps, with stunning scenery and seasonal wildflowers like snowbells and bluebells. Harmby Waterfall cascades over limestone rocks within a small wood. Cauldron Force features a deep, cauldron-like plunge pool and is rich in flora and fauna, with salmon visible during autumn spawning. Hardraw Force is a spectacular single-drop waterfall plunging 30 meters from a rocky overhang within wooded grounds.
The waterfalls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall, transforming into gushing torrents. Spring is beautiful at Aysgarth Falls with snowbells, primroses, and bluebells. Autumn offers the chance to see salmon migrating upstream for spawning at Cauldron Force. While impressive after rain, be mindful of conditions for walks.
Yes, there are numerous hiking routes. For example, the Hiking around Leyburn guide includes routes like the 'View of the Yorkshire Dales – Leyburn Town Centre loop' and the 'Chambers Coffee House – Harmby Waterfall loop from Leyburn'. Many trails around Aysgarth Falls are also suitable for hikers.
Yes, you can. Hardraw Force is uniquely accessed through the Green Dragon Inn, which provides a convenient spot for refreshments. The charming village of West Burton, home to Cauldron Force, also offers amenities. The National Park Centre at Aysgarth Falls provides information and is a good starting point for exploring, with facilities nearby.
While the main waterfalls like Aysgarth, Harmby, Cauldron Force, and Hardraw Force are well-known, Harmby Waterfall is often described as a tranquil and enchanting experience away from larger crowds, offering a serene visit despite its accessibility.
Aysgarth Falls is popular due to its unique triple flight of waterfalls, where the River Ure tumbles over broad limestone steps. Its natural beauty has inspired artists and served as a filming location for 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.' The area also features stunning scenery, especially in spring, and offers multiple trails for various visitors.
Access to Hardraw Force is uniquely gained through the Green Dragon Inn in Hardraw, near Hawes. There is a small admission fee charged, which contributes to the maintenance of the grounds. The walk to the falls from the inn is considered easy and accessible.
Yes, there are cycling routes in the area. The Road Cycling Routes around Leyburn guide includes a 'Aysgarth Falls – Aysgarth Middle Falls loop from Leyburn', which is a moderate 28.2 km route, allowing you to cycle near these prominent waterfalls.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the waterfalls, from the dramatic plunges of Aysgarth Falls and Hardraw Force to the tranquil charm of Harmby Waterfall and the picturesque setting of Cauldron Force. The historical connections, opportunities for family outings, and the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales are frequently highlighted. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation, with over 260 upvotes and 93 photos shared for the waterfalls in the area.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Leyburn: