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hat is it about water running over rocks that makes you feel instantly relaxed?

We’ve never quite worked it out either, but one thing we do know is that when you catch a glimpse of these rather splendid waterfalls, you instantly forget any workaday stress. And we’re not the only ones.

The poet Wordsworth was quite partial to Aysgarth Falls, too – as were his chums, the painters Ruskin and Turner, who dropped by on their travels back in the 19th-century.

The falls are divided up into three sections, spread over a mile or so, where the River Ure cuts through the heart of the Wensleydale Valley – and after parking up (or locking up your bike) there’s a scenic little path that takes you along the river so you can get a good look.

Why not bring a picnic and maybe some pencils – who knows – you might end up feeling inspired, like Wordsworth and co.?