West Burton and Aysgarth Falls

The Brockhurst family always try to get a walk in between Christmas and the New Year. It's a bit of a feel-good factor to make us a little better after the Christmas indulgences I suppose. It is also a good chance to do the family walk. We're not that brilliant at family things — well, Dave and I can be pretty useless at times, just ask Emma! (We're forgiven for now...). Anyway, I had always wanted to visit West Burton and see the waterfall, so after the first choice walk starting off from Middleham was abandoned due to the dreadful weather, and after a cafe break in Leyburn, we consulted the book I had with me that fortunately indicated the easiest walk for us was from West Burton. The rain had ceased a little, but not stopped, so Ray and I decided to go for it with misgivings from Karen and Lil in particular. Dave was up for it though, as was Megan and Emma. Chris, Emma's beau, was cool. I presume Andrea was too.

After arriving in West Burton we changed and set off to explore the fields between the village and Aysgarth. Tag was eager to make a move; he extended his leash to the full length, running forth to make acquaintance with the field sheep, the little monkey. We reached Eshington Bridge and the climb started.

The weather was grim now and rain lashed in from Upper Wharfedale to the west. The ground was sodden and slipping made the steep little climb even tougher. Everyone agreed the one and a half miles to Flattlands on the hilltop seemed more. At least the climbing was now done.

The sodden troupe skulked into Aysgarth village and after the team photo we all headed on through fields to Aysgarth Church and on north-east to the middle and lower Aysgarth Falls. No waiting about now; two distinct groups had now formed, the lads out in front and the lasses to the rear. Emma took a tumble on the way and Lil grasped for my hand to help her overcome the indignity of being a tired and wet person.

It was raining again; we had picked the wrong day this time, that was for sure. Still, we were all in good spirits as we arrived at Hestholme Bridge. One side of the bridge wall was missing — some young driver been here recently? Back to West Burton we went in rain. I saw a ray of sunshine — momentarily, but a sign. I felt blessed. I was wet. So was everyone else. We were all very soaked indeed. As wet as the beautiful waterfall of West Burton, a brilliant sight in a majestic setting. Worth all the chill in the bones. Next family walk at Easter everyone?