Matthew Wolfenden and Roxy Shahidi Guide Us on a Summer Walk at Bolton Abbey
Living North's columnists, actors Matthew Wolfenden and Roxy Shahidi (best known for their roles David and Leyla on Emmerdale), continue their journey exploring Yorkshire one walk at a time
Beginning and ending at Bolton Abbey, this walk follows the River Wharfe as it winds through some of the most picturesque scenery in the Dales. It’s a route that feels made for summer, with dappled woodland paths, open stretches of grass perfect for picnics, and the steady soundtrack of flowing water never far away.
Early on, the famous stepping stones provide both a focal point and a moment of fun (or hesitation, depending on your balance). From there, the path leads deeper into woodland before arriving at one of Yorkshire’s most dramatic (and dangerous) natural features: The Strid.
Here, the river narrows dramatically, forcing the full power of the Wharfe through a tight, churning channel. It’s a striking contrast to the calm, open stretches you’ve just walked, and a reminder of how quickly the landscape can shift. The route then loops back via Barden Bridge, opening out into sunlit parkland before returning to Bolton Abbey, and, crucially, the pub.
Why Bolton Abbey?
Matt: ‘This is Yorkshire at its best in the sunshine. River, trees, space… it’s got everything.’
Roxy: ‘And those stepping stones… are we actually doing that?’
Matt: ‘We are absolutely doing that.’
Roxy: ‘What if I fall in?’
Matt: ‘That would absolutely make my day.’
Roxy: ‘You’re not funny.’
Matt: ‘I disagree.’
Roxy: ‘Wasn’t All Creatures Great and Small filmed around here?’
Matt: ‘Yeah, the Bolton Abbey Estate apparently featured a lot in the series, and it’s easy to see why. It’s got that classic Yorkshire look everyone imagines hasn’t it?’
Roxy: ‘Yorkshire really does end up on screen a lot, doesn’t it?’
Matt: ‘Yeah, loads of productions have filmed around here over the years. Apparently, a little show called Emmerdale has used this area quite a lot... but I’ve never heard of it.’
Roxy: (laughs) ‘It kind of rings a bell.’
Matt: ‘We’re basically walking through a very lavish TV set.’
Roxy: ‘And somehow we’ve managed to pick the perfect weather for it.’
Matt: ‘Don’t jinx it.’
Roxy: ‘And then straight to The Devonshire Arms after?’
Matt: ‘Now you’re talking.’
Let’s Walk…
We set off from the grounds of Bolton Abbey, the morning already warm; families setting up for picnics, walkers lacing boots, the quiet excitement that comes with a proper summer’s day in the Dales.
The ruins of the priory sit nearby, adding a sense of history to the start, but it’s the river that draws you in. The River Wharfe moves steadily alongside the path, catching the light, its surface broken here and there by smooth stones.
It doesn’t take long to reach the stepping stones. They stretch across the river in a neat line, deceptively simple, with just enough space between each to make you think twice. Some cross confidently, others (Roxy) pause midway, arms out for balance, her screams carrying across the water!
From here, the path slips into woodland. The temperature drops just enough under the canopy, the light softening as it filters through the leaves. As we continue, the sound of the water begins to change. What was once a gentle flow becomes louder… and then you reach The Strid. The river, which moments ago felt wide and calm, suddenly narrows into a deep, twisting channel, forcing the water through at speed. There’s something captivating about it – its beauty and its force. It’s a natural pause in the walk, a place to take stock before moving on.
Leaving The Strid behind, the route begins to open out. Woodland gives way to wider paths and open parkland, where the sun returns in full. This is where the walk really leans into its summer feel. Long grass sways gently in the breeze, the river reappears in calmer form, and there are countless spots to stop, whether it’s for a quick drink, a proper picnic, or simply to lie back for a moment and take it all in.
The path leads towards Barden Bridge, its stone arches crossing the river. From here, the route curves back towards Bolton Abbey – by now, the area is livelier. More walkers, more families, the full energy of a summer’s day in Yorkshire. But there’s still that sense of space, of being able to find your own quiet corner if you want it.
No Yorkshire summer walk is complete without that final stop, and here it couldn’t be better placed. Just a short wander from the abbey itself, The Devonshire Arms feels like part of the experience rather than an afterthought. There’s something about arriving there after a few miles along the river; boots off, sun still warm, that first cold drink in hand. Whether you settle into the garden with a pint or go all in with something more substantial, it’s exactly what you want at the end of a walk like this.
At around five miles, this is a walk that feels as easy or as leisurely as you want it to be. There’s no rush here. It’s about taking your time, stopping when you fancy, and making the most of everything along the way.
From the stepping stones at Bolton Abbey to the dramatic power of The Strid, and the peaceful riverside stretches in between, it’s a route that perfectly captures the essence of a Yorkshire summer.
A classic, for good reason.
