Valley Of Desolation Waterfall- Bolton Abbey, North Yorkshire

The Valley of Desolation is a dramatic and scenic valley located in Bolton Abbey, North Yorkshire, England. It is a popular destination for walkers and hikers who are looking for stunning views and challenging terrain.

The valley gets its name from a devastating storm that took place in 1826, which caused widespread damage to the area. The storm caused a landslide in the valley, which resulted in the formation of the rocky and rugged landscape that can be seen today.

The Valley of Desolation is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, with several routes that pass through the area. One of the most popular routes is the circular walk that starts at Bolton Abbey and takes in the Valley of Desolation, Simon’s Seat, and Barden Fell.

The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the River Wharfe and the nearby Barden Bridge. It is a challenging walk that involves steep ascents and descents, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Valley of Desolation has a rich history, with several interesting features and landmarks to explore. These include the ruins of an old lead mine, a series of stepping stones across the river, and a natural amphitheatre known as the “Devil’s Cauldron.”

Overall, the Valley of Desolation is a must-see destination for visitors to Bolton Abbey who are looking for a challenging walk and stunning scenery.

The walk is approximately 8 miles long and takes around 4-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the views. Here is a rough outline of the route:

1. Start at Bolton Abbey car park and follow the footpath that leads to the Priory ruins. From there, cross the suspension bridge over the River Wharfe and follow the signs for the Valley of Desolation.
2. The trail will take you through Strid Wood, a beautiful woodland that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including red squirrels, roe deer, and various species of birds.
3. As you leave the woods, you’ll enter the Valley of Desolation, a rocky and rugged landscape that was formed by a landslide in 1826. Follow the path through the valley, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
4. The path will eventually lead you to the top of Simon’s Seat, a rocky outcrop that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Take some time to rest and enjoy the views before continuing on the trail.
5. From Simon’s Seat, the path will take you across Barden Fell, a wild and remote landscape that is home to heather, bilberry, and other moorland vegetation. Keep an eye out for curlews, lapwings, and other birds that make their home on the moors.
6. The trail will eventually lead you back to the River Wharfe, where you can cross over Barden Bridge and head back to Bolton Abbey.

The Valley of Desolation walk is a challenging and rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside. It’s a good idea to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks, as the trail can be steep and rocky in places.

If you’re looking to stay in North Yorkshire near Bolton Abbey, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages. Here are a few recommendations:

1. The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa: This luxurious hotel is located on the Bolton Abbey estate and offers a range of stylish rooms and suites, a spa, and a selection of dining options. The hotel also has its own fishing beat on the River Wharfe.
2. The Red Lion Inn: This traditional 16th-century inn is located in the village of Burnsall, just a short drive from Bolton Abbey. The inn offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves locally sourced, seasonal food.
3. The Priory: This guest house is located in the heart of Bolton Abbey and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner. The guest house is housed in a historic building that was once a priory.
4. The Old School B&B: This bed and breakfast is located in the village of Hebden, a short drive from Bolton Abbey. The B&B offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast, and is housed in a historic school building.
5. Riverside Cottages: These self-catering cottages are located on the banks of the River Wharfe, just a short walk from Bolton Abbey. The cottages are fully equipped for self-catering and offer a peaceful and picturesque setting.

These are just a few examples of the accommodation options available in the area. Depending on your preferences and budget, there are many other options to choose from. It’s a good idea to book in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.