Bolton Abbey and the Strid
From the priory ruins along the River Wharfe to the Strid, where the whole river squeezes through a narrow gap.
- Distance
- 9.2 km
- Ascent
- 140 m
- Time
- 2.5–3 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 178 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Bolton Abbey and the Strid is an easy 9.2 km circular walk with 140 m of ascent, taking 2.5 to 3 hours. It starts at Bolton Abbey (grid reference SE 070 538).
Bolton Abbey is an estate on the River Wharfe with the ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian priory at its heart. From the priory, paths follow the river upstream through meadows and woods to Strid Wood.
At the Strid, the whole River Wharfe forces its way through a narrow gap in the rock. It looks easy to jump, but the water is very deep and fast, and people have died here: keep well back. The walk returns along the other bank.
Route
-
1
The priory
Walk down to the priory ruins by the river.
-
2
Strid Wood
Follow the Wharfe upstream through the woods to the Strid.
-
3
The other bank
Cross the river and return along the other side.
Summit
On the way
-
Bolton AbbeyAbbey · 200 m from the route
Questions about this walk
- How long does Bolton Abbey and the Strid take?
- Most walkers take 2.5–3 hours for the 9.2 km route, which has 140 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Bolton Abbey (grid reference SE 070 538). Bolton Abbey estate car park (charge per car).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Buses from Skipton and Ilkley in summer. Check times on Traveline.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Riverside paths and woodland tracks, some uneven.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: Never try to jump the Strid, and keep children and dogs well back from the edge.
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