I spent much of my childhood swimming in the welcoming waters of the River Wharfe, and roaming around the ruins of Bolton Abbey, respectively as a child, just a short drive from where I grew up in the equally beautiful tiny town of Ilkley, situated next to the rugged Ilkley Moor and the Southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Picturesque and cinematic in equal measure, the backdrop to my formative years was utterly blissful and I know how lucky I was to live there.
Returning now with my own children in tow is a full circle moment. The stuff dreams are made of because I always wanted to be a mum and I always wanted to offer my kids a similar childhood to my own. One that felt carefree but safe and adventurous as much as possible, with exploring nature, a priority.
Bolton Abbey ticks all of the boxes. Its history is fascinating too:
- 1154: Land was granted to Augustinian canons, who relocated from Embsay.
- 14th Century: Suffered severe damage and temporary abandonment during cross-border Scottish raids.
- Wealth: Grew prosperous through extensive sheep farming and the wool trade across the Yorkshire Dales.
- 1539: Suppressed under King Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
- Community Church: The nave was saved from total destruction and converted to serve as a local parish church—a role it maintains today.
- The East End: Left as a striking, roofless ruin alongside the River Wharfe.
- Ownership: Passed through noble families including the Cliffords before arriving by marriage to the Cavendish family, the Dukes of Devonshire.
- The Hall: The 14th-century gatehouse was later transformed into a private hunting lodge and country residence visited by royalty.
- Today: The historic site anchors a vast 30,000-acre estate open to the public within the Yorkshire Dales.
If you’re planning a visit to Bolton Abbey and are new here, hey there (!) and trust me, you’re about to have a jolly good time in the great outdoors.
A magical portal to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Bolton Abbey provides visitors with miles upon miles of walks and wilderness you will marvel at.
Prepare to become enveloped in vast expanses of moorland, woodland and riverside pasture (with plenty of sheep to keep you company) as well as of course, enchanting ancient ruins which bring history to life. Bolton Abbey offers you a whopping 30,000 acres of natural beauty like nowhere else on earth.
With a beach area to paddle or fish in (or swim-but check the water safety levels etc online first), stepping stones to cross the waters by foot or a bridge if you prefer walking from a higher spot as well as riverside walks, there’s something for everyone.
Enjoy your visit!
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Greek Myths, Folktales & Legends for 9-12 year olds
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