Step back in time at Bolton Abbey

Much like Leeds Castle, which is located in Kent, Bolton Abbey does not lie in the town it is named after but in Skipton-on-Swale, North Yorkshire.

The historic abbey is set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and boasts nearly 30,000 acres of countryside. Furthermore, with over 80 footpaths and endless green spaces it is a playground for those who love exploring the countryside.

Around the Priory Ruins and the Abbey are a selection of traditional tea rooms, an antique book store and village shop, allowing visitors to have a quintessentially rural English experience.

Furthermore, there are a series of residences to let around the estate for holidaymakers who want to extend their stay at Bolton Abbey.

Bolton Abbey Location

Most visitors arrive at Bolton Abbey by car. Parking facilities on site are ample, although visitors will be charged a flat rate of £5.50 to park for the entire day. Those who wish to avoid paying this fee should park somewhere in the town as walking onto the Abbey site is free of charge.

The A59 leads motorists right into Skipton-on-Swale from both directions and links up with the A65.

Having a car in the area is also useful as there are many other sites in the Yorkshire Dales visitors to Bolton Abbey may want to see during the day.

Alternatively, there is a rail connection at Skipton which has a direct link with Leeds. Skipton train station is 6.5 miles from Bolton Abbey, which will take around 11 minutes in a taxi.

There is also a steam train service which runs from Bolton Abbey station every Sunday, taking visitors around the Yorkshire Dales.

Why Visit Bolton Abbey?

Bolton Abbey is one of the most historic churches in England. Dating back to 1154 when Augustinian Canons was given the land by Lady Alice de Rumilly, the Priory Ruins offer an insight into Christian worship at the beginning of the last millennium.

More than that, they are located on the banks of the River Wharfe in beautiful surroundings. Where the river flows just below the ruins, a series of stepping stones have been placed parallel to the bridge crossing. At any time of day visitors can be seen attempting to cross the water on the 57 stepping stones, with varying degrees of success.

Another sight not to miss at the Abbey includes Barden Tower, which was one of six hunting lodges in Barden forest hundreds of years ago. Today visitors can explore the ruined tower.

For those who find themselves in the Yorkshire Dales because of their passion for nature will not be disappointed by Bolton Abbey. The Strid section of the River Wharfe is a fast-flowing, narrow section of the waterway. Visitors can watch the water crash through the rocks.

Alternatively visitors could enjoy a trip to the Aqueduct crossing, the Laund Oak tree, which dates back over 800 years, or the so-called Money Tree, which is mysteriously laden with coins.