Explore diverse landscapes and habitats, natural wonders and cultural landmarks along Bolton Abbey’s 80+ miles of footpaths. Experience the scenery by bike as you ride along some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful cycle routes, including sections of the Tour de Yorkshire route. The estate also offers an extensive programme of events, workshops and interactive trails for all ages to enjoy.
The Priory Church and Abbey Ruins
The Priory Church and historic ruins lie at the heart of the estate. Surrounded by ancient moorland on the banks of the River Wharfe, the abbey was originally built in the 1300s as an Augustinian Priory. Here, the landscape was immortalised by the master of romanticism himself JMW Turner, who painted the ruins in the early 1800s. Learn more about the site’s history, explore the ruins or relax and enjoy the riverside views.
Strid Wood and The Strid
This ancient woodland is one of the most popular spots in the Yorkshire Dales, and with good reason for its sheer beauty. Not only home to otters, roe deer, woodpeckers and kingfishers, you will also encounter the awe-inspiring boiling cauldron known as The Strid where the River Wharfe is squeezed through a narrow gap in the rocks.
Stepping Stones
Once a crossing point for the monks and people of the Priory, these 62 stepping stones provide an adventurous way to cross the River Wharfe.
Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat
Take a peaceful walk through this valley, which links the River Wharfe to Barden Fell. At the valley’s head you’ll be greeted by a waterfall, with the option to continue to Simon’s Seat, the highest point on the estate, for outstanding views that stretch as far as Lancashire and York on a clear day.
Wildlife
Bolton Abbey is home to a diverse range of wildlife, fungi, rare plants and flowers. During your visit, you may spot green woodpeckers, otters, and buzzards.
Barden Tower
This former hunting lodge was rebuilt in the 15th Century by Henry Clifford, the Shepherd Lord. Today, we invite guests to come and explore the ruins and learn more about its history.
Aqueduct
This ornate aqueduct can be found just north of Strid Wood and carries water from the reservoirs at the top of Nidderdale to the cities of West Yorkshire.
The Money Tree
Follow the path from the stepping stones through the woodland and discover some mysterious fallen trees laden with coins.
The Laund Oak
This veteran tree is over 600 years old and is thought to have been named after John of Laund who was the Prior from 1286 to 1330.