For some reason, the last few times I've been to the Bolton Abbey Estate I've stuck to the paths from the Cavendish Pavilion in the direction of the Strid. The woodland with the river meandering through makes for scenic walks.
On my most recent visit, I decided I'd venture in the opposite direction towards the Priory Church. The route is no less attractive but has a very different feel. Here the river broadens out and becomes slower and the views are more open, culminating in the famous view of the ruined end of the Priory from across the water (above).
The path follows the river along its eastern bank, sometimes at river level and sometimes climbing high up the valley side. After a mile or so of quite strenuous effort up and down the inclines, you're rewarded by views of the Priory ruins.
The decision as to how to cross the river is a no-brainer for me! I always use the footbridge but it's surprising how many people opt for the rather precarious stepping stones. There are one or two missing, which is fine for folks with long legs and no vertigo!
The Estate has belonged to the Cavendish family, the Dukes of Devonshire, since the 1700s and is now in the care of a Trust. I'm always slightly puzzled by the fact that it is known as Bolton Abbey, as is the village behind the church. However, the monastery at Bolton Abbey was an Augustinian priory (led by a prior) so the church, partially ruined, is called the Priory Church. The ruined east end was a result of the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in 1540, but the nave was saved because it was used as a parish church, and continues to be so.
I'd definitly choose the footbridge, too! :) But nice that they've left the stepping stones, too. In my photo album from a family holiday in Britain 1974 (50+ years ago!!) I have a postcard with almost exactly the same view as your first photo, also showing those stones in the river.
ReplyDeleteAn enjoyable blogpost - set in England's finest county. In this largely grey month, you were lucky with the light - nicely illuminating the scenes you chose to capture. As there are missing stepping stones, I would have also opted for the footbridge.
ReplyDeleteOnce I was a stone hopper in rivers and streams...not just those laid out in a straight line, but in mountain streams with lots of rocks...just hop along going upstream. I think downstream wasn't as easy...something to do with looking for the next stone upon which to step. Lovely old relic of the priory, and it would certainly invite me to get closer to see details!
ReplyDeleteI love your views of the Abbey. I'd take the bridge too.
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