The Yorkshire Dales is a landscape steeped in legend, history, and timeless beauty.

Here at Aysgarth Falls Hotel, we’re lucky to sit in the heart of it all – surrounded not only by breathtaking waterfalls and rolling countryside but also by stories of medieval knights and ancient orders. One such story takes us to nearby Penhill, just a short journey from Aysgarth, where the Knights Templar once made their mark.

Who Were the Knights Templar?

The Knights Templar were one of the most famous military orders of the Middle Ages, founded in the 12th century to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. Renowned for their distinctive white mantles with red crosses, they quickly became powerful landowners across Europe, including right here in North Yorkshire.

Their reputation was one of mystery and strength – warrior monks bound by vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, yet wielding considerable influence and wealth. Over time, their order was dissolved, but their legacy still lingers in many corners of Britain.

Penhill Preceptory

Nestled near West Witton and overlooked by the dramatic rise of Penhill, the Preceptory of the Knights Templar was established in the late 12th century. It served as both a religious and administrative hub, where Templar brothers lived, prayed, and managed the estates that funded their wider missions.

Though much of the original preceptory has been lost to time, the site remains a place of intrigue. Walking around, you can still sense the atmosphere of a once-sacred ground where knights would have gathered, planned, and worshipped. The ruins stand as a reminder of how the Yorkshire Dales were woven into a global network of faith, warfare, and politics.

Legends and Stories

As with many Templar sites, Penhill Preceptory comes with its fair share of legends. Some say the Templars chose the site for its commanding views of Wensleydale, perfect for overseeing the surrounding land. Others believe treasures or sacred relics may once have been hidden here, sparking centuries of local speculation.

Even today, visitors are drawn not just by the historical significance but also by the sense of mystery that still clings to the site. Standing amid the ruins, with Penhill rising above and the Dales stretching out below, it’s easy to imagine the monks and knights who once called this place home.

A Perfect Day Out from Aysgarth

For our guests at Aysgarth Falls Hotel, Penhill Preceptory makes for a fascinating excursion. Just a short drive away, it pairs beautifully with a day exploring the waterfalls, enjoying a hearty Yorkshire lunch, and soaking in the spectacular scenery. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful walk with a story attached, this site is well worth the visit.