Wharfedale
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The most southerly valley of the Yorkshire Dales is Wharfedale. Its river of the same name flows northwest of Leeds.
Related Attractions
Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey (really a priory), near the village of Beamsley, is a convenient setting-off point for exploring the beautiful scenery in Wharfedale. The most important part of this small but romantic ruin is the 12th century parish church, which was built in the Early English and Decorated styles. Its west tower was begun in 1520 but never completed. The gatehouse is incorporated in the adjoining Bolton Hall (19th century), seat of the Dukes of Devonshire.
Bolton Abbey Estate
There are some very fine walks through the surrounding grounds of the Bolton Estate. Opposite Bolton Abbey a footbridge and stepping stones cross the river.
Strid
One walk which should not be missed in Wharfedale leads along the west bank of the Wharfe River to the Strid. Here the Wharfe surges through a gorge which at times is not much more than 3ft/1m wide. From here the path continues past Pembroke Seat (fine view) to Barden Bridge, about 3mi/5km from the abbey. Walkers should return from here along the east bank of the river.
Upper Wharfedale
In the Upper Wharfedale valley are a number of interesting towns and attractions, including Buckden, Burnsall, and Kettlewell.
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Skipton Castle, England
The small town of Skipton to the west of Bolton Abbey lies at the center of the area extending between Wharfedale and Ribbledale.Skipton is also located on the River Aire and has a castle of note. There is a market held 4 days each week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday - on High Street.Skipton Castle is one of the most complete and best preserved mediaeval castles in England. It is fully roofed and offers fine views over the town and across the Dales.
Skipton - Music Festival
The Skipton Music Festival takes place in mid March
Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway
Railroad enthusiasts are advised to visit the collection of old locomotives and carriages assembled at the railroad station in the village of Embsay, near Skipton. On Sundays throughout the year an old steam train travels from Embsay to Holywell; in July it is also in operation on Saturdays and in August it makes the journey daily.
Malham
An excursion can be made northwestwards from Skipton to Malham, where visitors can enjoy walks among the very romantic scenery to Malham Cave, a rock formation in the form of an amphitheater, Gordale Scar, a ravine, and Malham Tarn, a hidden marsh lake.
Settle, England
Settle (pop. 2,300) is a nice little town with an historical museum. Several caves were found in the area around Settle containing prehistoric remains such as a mammoth, bear, reindeer, and flint with other tools.Settle holds a market every Tuesday in the centre of the town with some items that are unique to the town.
