Aislabie Walk
A 17-mile long distance path established by William Aislabie as a circuit between his estates at Studley Royal and Hackfall, featuring carriageways, bridges, and vistas forming a private route for his family. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: SE 278 691
Distance: 17 miles (27 km)
Time: 6–8 hours
Duration: 1 day
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
298 Nidderdale
299 Ripon, Boroughbridge and Easingwold
Summary
During the mid-18th century, William Aislabie established a circuit between his estates at Studley Royal and Hackfall with carriageways, bridges, and vistas forming a private route for his family. The Aislabies created a vast 'picturesque landscape' that included Studley Royal, Laver Banks, and Hackfall. This circuit remained until the early 19th century thanks to the growing popularity of Hackfall and Studley Royal. Unfortunately by the late 19th century it had fallen out of use, and the exact route has now been lost. However, there are enough clues and evidence to piece together much of this circuit, with a little 'artistic licence' to fill in the gaps whilst also taking in some of the other fascinating points of historic interest along the way. It is not a historically accurate route, but more of a walking route that explores the historical landscape so you may experience the 'picturesque' circuit of Studley Royal, Laver Banks, and Hackfall as William Aislabie originally intended some 250 years ago. (Source: LDWA)