What an incredibly beautiful and well laid out place to visit. I was there today helping my local Community Centre on day out and I was so impressed.
Quite a bit of walking involved though there were people with sticks so you can take it easy.
There is a beautiful river, the ruins of the abbey itself, the restored part of the church, bridges, stepping stones, so much natural beauty.
Best of all it is actually free to visit!!
Well I say that, it's free to visit but parking is very expensive so I'd suggest finding ways to park close by. It's £10 per car so not too bad if there are 4 of you but if you are on your own it's not cheap. Having said that, apparently the 'car' can hold up to 11 people!
Buses, coaches etc are £1 per person for parking so incredible value.
I'll try to post some photos when I get the chance to edit them but I really really recommend this place
I agree, Bolton abbey is a lovely place. I've been there myself a few times and got some lovely photos.
Don't forget that even though the parking fee is expensive it does include all three car parks on the estate so it's ideal for anyone who can't walk a great distance but wants to see different parts of the area.
------------- Tigermouse
I have a very temperamental personality - 50% temper and 50% mental
Another great place to go to is Brimham Rocks, just to the east of Pately Bridge. It's an amazing place full of good photo opportunities, and brilliant for kids to explore and scramble around. Groups are welcome and there's disabled access all round the main paths - may be one to think about if you've never been there before.
------------- Tigermouse
I have a very temperamental personality - 50% temper and 50% mental
I'm looking forward to seeing your pictures Highslayer as Bolton Abbey and the surrounding area is truly beautiful. We've walked through the Strid many times and always find it a magical and mysterious walk, and with a sense of sadness knowing people have lost lives their lives there. (Google it). The river is very wide at one point then changes and is incredibly narrow but very deep; it's a very mesmerising vision. Unfortunately we haven't been able to visit the Valley of Desolation as dogs aren't allowed but I understand it's a lovely walk through woodlands, with waterfalls and leads to Simons seat, with spectacular views. For anyone who doesn't know, there are great walks around the Bolton Abbey estate, it's part of the Dales Way and there are campsites along the route (Masons/Howgill Lodge).
We too had a lovely time at Bolton Abbey yesterday. Parked in the riverside car park (BBQ's are allowed there).
Walked to the priory and back and then up to the Strid and back.
Just a word of warning if driving a large vehicle-my trusty C&CC road map noted the 10'9" height bridge on the approach, no problem with that. BUT the width wasn't mentioned!
Our van is 9'3" including the wing mirrors, I don't know what the bridge width actually is, but I had to lean out of the window and pull in the wing mirror to squeeze through!
If you liked Bolton Abbey then you would love Fountains Abbey and Studley park. You have to pay for FA but SP is free and has good walks. Good visitor centre and cafe.
Just outside Ripon.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Bolton Abbey
