Contact Bolton Abbey on 01756 718000 to learn more about all of the tourist attractions that this vast and beautiful estate can offer.
About Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey can be found within Wharfedale in North Yorkshire. The name comes from the 12th-century monastery ruins of Bolton Priory, beside the village of Bolton Abbey. Bolton Priory was closed in 1540 following the Dissolution of the Monasteries upon the orders of King Henry VIII. Today, the Bolton Abbey estate includes 33,000 acres of land. In addition to the Priory Church and ruins, there are many other sites to visit. This includes Strid Wood and the Strid, Barden Tower, the Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat, the aqueduct, stepping stones across the river, the Money Tree, and the 800-year-old Laund Oak tree.
There are several Grade I and Grade II-listed buildings, 8 miles of river, a marine fossil quarry, many walking routes, and almost 30 businesses on the estate. Among these are a Post Office, two gift shops, and lots of tea rooms and restaurants. Some are located in historical buildings, like The Priest’s House. There are also designated places for picnics and barbecues. Throughout the year, there will be plenty of activities and events, from open-air cinema to Christmas workshops. The estate can also host private events, such as weddings, festivals and country fairs, charity or corporate events, and unique set locations for film/TV.
Bolton Abbey Opening Times
Bolton Abbey is open all year round, even on Christmas Day, although the gift shops do close for this holiday. Visitors are advised to phone ahead and check the opening times, especially for the retail and food outlets on the Estate if they plan to shop there. The grounds open at 9am every single day, but closing time will depend on the time of year.
In the summer months of June to August the grounds close at 9pm, but the last admissions are at 6pm. During autumn in September and October, closing time is at 7pm, with last admissions at 5.30pm. From the end of October up until mid-March the grounds close at 6pm, with visitors unable to enter after 4pm. Opening times between March and May are the same as in autumn. Moorland areas are subject to closure.
If you intend to visit particular walks, call to make sure that these are not closed for shooting or due to fire risks. All visitors will need to pay an admission fee to enter the estate at all times of the year. This costs £10 per car, which covers up to 11 occupants. Alternatively, it costs £4 per motorbike. For groups arriving in coaches or minibuses, it will cost £1.50 for each person. For educational visits, it will be £2 or £3.50 per person, depending on whether you require a tour guide. Annual season tickets are available for £90, including free parking and 10% discounts.
Contacting Bolton Abbey
To enquire about anything from accessibility to making reservations at one of the restaurants, call the Bolton Abbey Estate Office on 01756 718000. You can also e-mail any queries to tourism@boltonabbey.com if you would prefer to contact them this way. The Estate Office aims to reply to visitor enquiries within 48 hours. Write letters or pay a visit to:
Bolton Abbey
Skipton
North Yorkshire
BD23 6EX