Cycling Bolton Abbey to Burnsall: An Impromptu Adventure

They say that some of the best journeys happen when original plans fall apart. That was certainly the case on my recent cycling trip in the Yorkshire Dales. What started as a day of logistical challenges turned into an incredible ride through some of England’s most stunning landscapes.

The Video Journey

Here’s a recording of my unexpected adventure from Bolton Abbey to Burnsall:

When Plans Go Awry

The day didn’t start as planned. Closed roads, traffic accidents, and various logistical issues forced me to abandon my original cycling route. Rather than heading home disappointed, I decided to make the most of being in the area and set off from Bolton Abbey toward Burnsall in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

As it turned out, this change of plans was a blessing in disguise. The route I ended up taking offered some of the most spectacular scenery the Dales have to offer.

The Route: Bolton Abbey to Burnsall

This route takes you through the eastern Yorkshire Dales, following the beautiful Wharfe Valley. The journey includes:

1. Starting at Bolton Abbey - A historic priory and estate with the River Wharfe flowing through it.
2. Through Barden - Past the impressive Barden Tower ruins.
3. Appletreewick - A quintessential Dales village with traditional stone buildings can be seen in the distance.
4. Finishing at Burnsall - A picturesque village with its iconic five-arched bridge.

I normally prefer a circular route, but given I was making this one up as I went along, I decided to just ride to Burnsall and back.

Highlights of the Journey

Bolton Abbey

The starting point offers much more than just a place to park. The 12th-century priory ruins are spectacular, set against the backdrop of the River Wharfe and surrounded by extensive woodlands and meadows. It’s worth a visit on its own to wander around the grounds and ruins, taking in the stepping stones across the river.

The Wharfe Valley

The route largely follows the course of the River Wharfe, one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful rivers. The valley offers constantly changing views - sometimes the river runs wide and gentle, other times it narrows through dramatic rocky sections.

Burnsall

The destination village is the epitome of Yorkshire Dales charm. The five-arched stone bridge spanning the Wharfe makes for a perfect photo opportunity, and the village green is an ideal spot for a well-earned rest, and an ice cream of course.

• Bolton Abbey
• Burnsall
• Yorkshire
• Scenic Routes