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’s dramatic name contrasts with the woodland and waterfall visitors find today. It links the River Wharfe corridor with the higher ground of Barden Fell; the summit extension is a much bigger outing than a visit to the waterfall.

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.

Check the estate’s Valley of Desolation visitor guidance before travelling. Dogs are not permitted on the route up the valley to Simon’s Seat, and access can close during sustained dry weather because of fire risk.

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.

Choose the estate’s published walk and map for your starting point. Do not treat a rough list of landmarks as turn-by-turn directions: the valley waterfall and Simon’s Seat require different time and fitness commitments.

1. Choose the car park that matches your published route and check its opening and closing times.
2. For the waterfall, follow the estate’s mapped Valley of Desolation route and remain on the permitted paths.
3. For Simon’s Seat, plan a longer moorland walk with navigation, appropriate footwear and clothing for exposed conditions.
4. At Simon’s Seat, keep away from exposed edges and turn back if conditions or visibility deteriorate.
5. Carry food, water and a map you can use; allow a generous margin for the return before dark.
6. Use marked bridges on the mapped return route. Do not enter the River Wharfe or attempt informal crossings.

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. Estate accommodation: Check the estate’s current cottages for verified properties, locations and capacity; do not rely on a generic “Priory guest house” description.
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. Self-catering: Compare the exact property address, access and facilities before assuming a cottage is within walking distance of the estate.

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.