As the River Wharfe careers out of Wharfedale it passes the remains of Bolton Abbey. This short walk passes the abbey ruins and continues up the far side of the river to the Cavendish Pavilion, returning on the popular western bank.
The ruins of Bolton Abbey are an impressive site. The monks who resided there in the 400 years prior to its Dissolution (courtesy of Henry VIII and his marriage difficulties in 1539) had a great impact on the surrounding area. In particular they effected the lives of all their tenants and villagers who lived nearby. The entire Bolton Abbey estate is worth exploring, the Parish Church in particular is in excellent condition.
The stepping stones on the nearby River Wharfe have attracted many a family, including mine, with its wide and spacious banks. However they can become very busy on bank holidays and summer weekends.
Although this is a walk (admittedly short) in its own right it is very short. It is a pleasant wander through the woods on the eastern banks yet only 1 mile to the Cavendish Pavilion and the same back. For those wanting to extend the walk alongside the river have a look at the longer Cataracts of the Strid walk. All in all the walk adds some additional interest to a visit to the abbey ruins.
An alternative (and cheaper) way to explore the Bolton Abbey estate is to park up in Storiths hamlet and walk down to the river from the east. However there is limited parking here but it does offer the only access that is not controlled by the estate.
The bridge you need to cross the River Wharfe is opposite the Cavendish Pavilion.
The parking here costs £10. You have to book and pay online in advance and present your barcode at the gate. Beautiful walk, so pretty.
Has anyone stayed at the Devonshire Arms?
In my past life I used to put work colleagues up here. All very pleased, high quality good restaurant but lacks atmosphere. If price no real issue the Angel at Hetton is best whereas cheaper Red Lion at Burnsall has character and great restaurant and situation
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