Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is an inspirational landscape Priory ruin that has been managed by the Devonshire family since 1755. Admired by artists such as Ruskin, Royle and Turner it remains the 12^th Duke of Devonshire’s Yorkshire seat in 30,000 acres that boasts 80 miles of walks and footpaths through woodland and moorland and a landscape that is full of legend and history.

The ruin of the Priory is the centre piece of the site which is a special place that also has tea rooms, cafes and restaurants plus riverside picnic spots and includes activities for children and fishing on the River Wharfe.

There are vast open spaces where families can burn off steam, play ball games, explore the enchanted woodlands and riverside path or build sandcastles on the riverside beach, paddle with fishing nets and have a picnic or barbecue.

Group visitors enjoy Bolton Abbey especially when taking the daily guided tours of the site which can be booked in advance through the Church Office on 01756 710238. There is designated coach park and access from the car park to the village of Bolton Abbey is level. Groups of 12 or more travelling in one vehicle (coach and driver are free). All groups need to be booked in advance.

Dog walkers are welcome in designated areas which include two large open spaces where dogs can run free (Barden field and the ‘dog field’ opposite the Cavendish Pavilion and downstream of the wooden bridge). On footpaths outside of our woodland areas may walk off the lead but please keep your dog walking to heel. Within woodland areas we ask that your dog remains on its lead.

Three shops on site offer exclusive products, a selection of giftware for all ages and a Post Office that handles cash withdrawal, stamps, giro payments and other banking and insurance transactions.

Bolton Abbey’s landscape is a “jewel in the crown” of Yorkshire’s many landscapes and a Herriot Country recommended visitor attraction that is part of Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castles and Gardens.