The Yorkshire Dales is recognised as one of the most distinctive landscapes in Europe, characterised by dry stone walls and field barns, limestone cliffs and valleys, upland meadows and wild moorland – ideal for walking, rambling and cycling. The lack of light pollution by night makes it one of the UK’s best dark skies destinations, and the national park is home to the annual Dark Skies Festival.
Walks on our Doorstep
We offer a variety of walks and hikes that set off from our properties in Yorkshire.
Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat
The Valley of Desolation, despite its name, is a place of beauty on the Bolton Abbey Estate, with a waterfall, woodlands and several species of flora and fauna. From here, hike to Simon’s Seat, a dramatic gritstone outcrop perched high above the surrounding landscape with panoramic views of the Dales.
Kilnsey Crag
Kilnsey Crag is a striking limestone cliff that towers over the Wharfe Valley. With its dramatic overhang and rugged beauty, the crag draws rock climbers and is a beloved landmark for locals and visitors.
The Dales Way
The Dales Way is an 80-mile walking trail from Ilkley in West Yorkshire to Bowness-on-Windermere, showcasing Yorkshire’s stunning landscapes. Highlights include the scenic stretch through Bolton Abbey and the historic village of Grassington with its cobblestone streets, also known as Darrowby in the TV series All Creatures Great and Small.
Yorkshire Dales Cycle Way
The Yorkshire Dales Cycle Way is a 130-mile circular route that takes cyclists through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, starting and finishing in Skipton. While it covers most of the major Dales, it can be started at any point and is divided into sections to suit individual abilities.
Malham Cove
Malham Cove, an iconic limestone formation in the Yorkshire Dales, has a towering cliff face and unique limestone pavement. Shaped by glacial and water erosion, it offers fascinating geological features and panoramic views. The area is a haven for walkers, climbers and wildlife enthusiasts and is a must-visit destination in the Dales.
2014 Tour De France, Yorkshire Grand Depart Route
In 2014, Yorkshire proudly hosted the Grand Départ of the Tour de France. The route took professional riders through some of the county’s most scenic areas, including Bolton Abbey. Today, cyclists can follow in the tracks of the world’s best riders, experiencing the same roads and countryside that made the race’s Yorkshire stages so iconic.
Fishing on the River Wharfe
Bolton Abbey is a prime spot for fly fishing on the River Wharfe, known for an abundance of brown trout and grayling. With 4.5 miles of double-bank fishing, the keepered fishery offers a peaceful, scenic setting for anglers of all abilities to enjoy.
Stargazing
Bolton Abbey is an incredible spot for stargazing, set within the Yorkshire Dales, a designated International Dark Skies Reserve. With minimal light pollution, the estate is perfect for spotting constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way. It also takes part in the annual Dark Skies Festival, celebrating the wonders of the night sky with special events and activities.