Bolton Abbey & the River Wharfe to Burnsall Walking Map

Walking in the area of Bolton Abbey and along the River Wharfe to Burnsall offers a mix of riverside trails, gentle hill walks, and historic landmarks set within the Yorkshire Dales. The Dales Way, a well-known long-distance footpath, follows the River Wharfe through this section, passing through lush meadows, ancient woodland, and traditional Dales villages. One of the most popular routes is the Bolton Abbey to Barden Bridge walk, which follows the river through the picturesque Strid Wood, home to The Strid, a dramatic narrow gorge where the Wharfe is forced through a tight channel. For those seeking hill walks, the paths leading up to Simon's Seat offer panoramic views over the valley, while Burnsall Fell provides a shorter but equally rewarding climb.

The area is steeped in history, with Bolton Abbey, the ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory, as a key heritage attraction. The Barden Tower, a medieval hunting lodge, stands along the riverside route, reflecting the region’s noble past. The Wharfedale Railway once served the area, and while the original tracks are gone, the stone bridges and viaducts remain as reminders of its industrial heritage. Burnsall itself is a charming village with an ancient church and an iconic five-arched bridge spanning the river. More information on walking routes and heritage sites can be found via the Yorkshire Dales National Park and Bolton Abbey Estate.