9.75 miles.
Explorer Map No 27, - Lower Wharfedale.
This is a classic walk, and deservedly so. The actual
walk is quite straightforward, and although it involves the ascent of
Barden Fell the tracks are good and well sign-posted.
Between Simon's Seat and Lord's Seat there is some VERY boggy ground,
and some care is needed here.
The view from Simon's Seat is truly spectacular, and for this reason
the walk is best done on a fine day.
For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above
link.
(Overlay made with Version 4 of Memory Map)
Start from Bolton Abbey Car Park (SE0710053881). Note,
- fee of £5.00p.
Take the footpath down to the River Wharfe and cross by the wooden bridge.
Continue along the footpath on the East bank of the Wharfe to the Cavendish
Bridge (SE0777255317). Continue along the footpath, following the finger
posts to "The Valley of Desolation".
The footpath up the Valley of Desolation starts by a gate near the minor
road at SE0756855733. The footpath follows a clear track to the Truckle
Crags at SE077593. A slightly narrower path, - though clearly defined,
takes you to Simon's Seat at SE078597.
Here, take time out to enjoy the view.
From Simon's Seat take the initially clear path towards the Lord's Seat
rocks at SE0838659912. This path, although it starts out easily enough,
shortly becomes very boggy indeed.
FRom the Lord's Seat rocks take the footpath South East to the shooter's
track at SE0887859416, and foloow this South West to join the track
South back to Bolton Abbey at SE0794958540.