Route Description

This superb walk combines ancient history, dramatic waterfalls, peaceful ancient woodland, rushing waters and some of the finest views in the Yorkshire Dales. From the River Wharfe to the summit of Simon’s Seat, across Barden Fell, through the Valley of Desolation and on to the ruins of Bolton Abbey and Strid Wood, it is a route full of variety, beauty and atmosphere.

This guided walk with Sheffield Walkers begins in Appletreewick, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, from where we begin our ascent to Simon’s Seat, a rocky outcrop standing 485 metres above sea level. The name is thought to relate to Druids who followed Simon Magus, who claimed to be one of the Three Wise Men. On a clear day, the views are breathtaking.

From there, we cross Barden Fell into the Valley of Desolation, which owes its name to the great storm of 1826 that devastated the valley. At its head, we are rewarded with a beautiful waterfall before descending through woodland plantings designed to illustrate the succession of different types of woodland believed to have colonised this area naturally since the last Ice Age.

We then head to the ruins of the Augustinian Priory at Bolton Abbey, where we will take lunch in its beautiful riverside setting and test our balance by crossing the river on the 62 stepping stones. The less adventurous can, of course, take the bridge.

The remainder of the walk follows the banks of the River Wharfe and winds through Strid Wood, home to one of the largest remaining stands of sessile oak in the Yorkshire Dales. Opened in 1810 by the 6th Duke of Devonshire, this ancient woodland is now one of the most visited in the Dales. Renowned for its rich flora and fauna, including bluebells and wild garlic, Strid Wood also supports an abundance of wildlife, from deer to kingfishers and woodpeckers. At its heart lies the Strid itself, a natural wonder where the river suddenly narrows and surges through with tremendous force.

This is a walk of constant contrast and interest: open moorland, sweeping views, woodland, waterfalls, history and the raw power of the river. Few routes in the Yorkshire Dales offer so much variety and drama in a single day.