Valley of Desolation Bolton Abbey
Discover the enchanting Valley of Desolation, a hidden gem with cascading waterfalls within the stunning Bolton Abbey Estate. Perfect for nature lover...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Valley of Desolation Bolton Abbey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the enchanting Valley of Desolation, a hidden gem with cascading waterfalls within the stunning Bolton Abbey Estate. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
"A beautiful little hidden gem next to Bolton Abbey, can be difficult to find but worth the effort."
🚗 Parking Options
Cavendish Pavilion parking is convenient but costs £15. Barden Bridge offers free parking.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be steep and slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Valley of Desolation Waterfall
Bolton Abbey Estate
A stunning, multi-tiered waterfall cascading through a rocky gorge. A true hidden gem.
Posforth Gill Waterfall
Near Bolton Abbey
Another beautiful cascade, often visited in conjunction with the Valley of Desolation. Perfect for nature lovers.
The Strid
River Wharfe, Bolton Abbey
A famously dangerous and powerful stretch of the River Wharfe, known for its dramatic beauty and treacherous currents.
Bolton Priory Ruins
Bolton Abbey Estate
Iconic 12th-century Augustinian priory ruins offering a glimpse into historical grandeur amidst picturesque scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Trail Conditions & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Cavendish Pavilion parking is convenient but costs £15. Barden Bridge offers free parking.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be steep and slippery, especially near the waterfalls. +1
🚫 No Dogs in Valley
Dogs are not allowed in the Valley of Desolation itself.
💧 Water Levels Vary
Waterfalls may be less powerful in dry periods like August.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Cavendish Pavilion parking is convenient but costs £15. Barden Bridge offers free parking.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be steep and slippery, especially near the waterfalls. +1
🚫 No Dogs in Valley
Dogs are not allowed in the Valley of Desolation itself.
💧 Water Levels Vary
Waterfalls may be less powerful in dry periods like August.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Mobile signal can be patchy; offline maps are helpful for navigation.
🦟 Midge Protection
Midges can be prevalent, especially in warmer months. Consider repellent or protective clothing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Valley of Desolation's serene beauty and picturesque waterfalls, calling it a 'beautiful little hidden gem'. Many appreciate the refreshing water and the opportunity for a peaceful walk. However, some note that the waterfalls can be less impressive in dry months and that the final path can be steep and challenging for those with mobility issues. +2
"Beautiful serene place if you manage avoid the crowd 😜. You can park at pick NIC area at Bolton Abbey and then walk up for about 15-20min. Last path down maybe a challenge for people with walking difficulties as is very steep. But when you manage to get there the price awaits you. So beautiful... You can paddle in the water is very refreshing. No tickets needed. Recommend this place for day out."
Magdalena Konopczynska
"Nice hike up, path narrow and slightly steep in places. We reached the top however the waterfall face was dry which we kind of expected that it might ne since it was August. Still a nice walk through the fields and nice scenery."
Carolanne Ashton
"It was a Lovley walk up to the waterfall we went in the summer, so it wasn't at full force. We stayed on the footpaths through the farmers' fields. The ground is mostly even until you turn off for the fall. Watch as parts are steep and slippery. You can walk to the top of the fall or the bottom. The whole area is stunning"
zoe lucas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Valley of Desolation is located within the Bolton Abbey Estate. The most convenient parking is at Cavendish Pavilion, which costs around £15 per car, though booking online in advance can save money. Alternatively, Barden Bridge car park offers free parking and a pleasant walk to the area.
While direct public transport to the Valley of Desolation itself is limited, you can reach Bolton Abbey village by bus from nearby towns like Skipton. From there, it's a walk or a short taxi ride to the estate.
From Cavendish Pavilion, follow the signs towards the waterfall. The path is relatively easy to find, though some sections can be steep and slippery.
You cannot drive directly to the waterfall itself. Parking is available at designated areas on the Bolton Abbey Estate, such as Cavendish Pavilion or Riverside car park, followed by a walk.
The walk from Cavendish Pavilion to the Valley of Desolation waterfall is approximately 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to enter the Valley of Desolation itself. However, parking on the Bolton Abbey Estate, such as at Cavendish Pavilion, incurs a fee.
Parking at Cavendish Pavilion typically costs around £15 per vehicle on the day, but can be cheaper if booked online in advance.
While the Valley of Desolation is free to access, there are parking charges for the Bolton Abbey Estate.
The Bolton Abbey Estate is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like the tea rooms may have seasonal hours. The natural landscape is always accessible.
Bolton Abbey Estate is managed by the Chatsworth Estate, not the National Trust, so National Trust passes are not valid for parking or entry.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a beautiful, serene natural area featuring a series of cascading waterfalls through a rocky gorge. It's a popular spot for peaceful walks and photography.
The walk is generally considered easy to moderate, but the final descent to the waterfall can be steep and slippery, posing a challenge for some. +1
While some visitors paddle in the refreshing water, swimming is not officially recommended due to the currents and rocky terrain.
No, dogs are not permitted in the Valley of Desolation itself. They must be kept on a lead if you are walking through other parts of the estate.
Nearby attractions include the iconic Bolton Priory ruins, the dramatic Strid gorge, and the challenging Simon's Seat hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The cascading waterfalls are the main draw. Try different angles from the top and bottom of the falls. The surrounding woodland also offers beautiful shots.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere.
While drone footage can offer unique perspectives of the waterfalls and landscape, it's not essential for capturing stunning images.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography within the Valley of Desolation, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and surrounding scenery. A tripod can help with long exposures in lower light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider exploring the Stepping Stones for a fun challenge, but supervise children closely. The Bolton Priory ruins also spark imagination, offering a glimpse into history.
Be aware that dogs are not allowed in the Valley of Desolation, so plan accordingly if you're bringing a pet. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider tackling longer routes like the Simon's Seat hike for a more challenging experience and rewarding views. +1While generally safe, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their route and expected return time. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit.
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the cascades from various angles, and experiment with long exposures to create a silky water effect. The surrounding woodland and the iconic Bolton Priory ruins also offer ample photographic opportunities. For unique perspectives, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for softer light.
Remember to pack a tripod for low-light conditions and a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the scenery. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bolton Abbey Estate
+1Beyond the Valley of Desolation, consider tackling the hike up Simon's Seat, a prominent gritstone outcrop offering panoramic views of the surrounding dales. This can be combined with a visit to the waterfalls for a more challenging but rewarding day.
The Stepping Stones across the River Wharfe are another iconic feature, providing a picturesque crossing point and a popular photo opportunity. +1When planning your visit, remember that the estate is managed by the Chatsworth Estate, and parking fees apply. While the natural beauty is free to enjoy, these fees contribute to the upkeep of the estate.
Hiking and Walking Trails
+1Many trails wind through Strid Wood, a beautiful ancient woodland alongside the River Wharfe, offering a more shaded and tranquil experience.
The Catgill - Bolton Abbey - Simon's Seat - Desolation Valley Circular is a popular, longer route that encompasses many of the estate's highlights, typically covering around 13.5 to 18.5 km. +1 It's advisable to download offline maps or carry a physical map, as mobile signal can be unreliable in some areas. Be prepared for varied terrain. While some paths are well-maintained, others can be steep, rocky, and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
The Power and Danger of The Strid
+1Despite its beauty, The Strid has claimed numerous lives over the years, earning it a fearsome reputation. Warning signs are prominently displayed, urging visitors to stay away from the water's edge.
While it's a popular spot for photos from a safe distance, it's crucial to respect its power and heed all safety advice. For those who prefer to admire the river's might from a safe vantage point, the surrounding woodland walks offer stunning views of the Wharfe without the inherent risks associated with The Strid itself.
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