Ever been to Bolton Abbey? If not, you really should go.
Located on the southern edge of the Yorkshire Dales, UK, Bolton Abbey is a beautiful place steeped in rich history, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Not to mention a C12th abbey too.
Of course, I was more interested in exploring the outdoors surrounding the abbey.
The objective. Find a big hill with a guaranteed amazing view. Pick a route. Walk to the top. Take pictures. Oh, and bring some friends along too to share the experience with.
The end result was a brilliant day out, some good exercise, and some quite beautiful views which really speak for themselves.
We walked from the abbey and followed signs for a walk labelled 'Valley of Desolation'. We walked through the valley, and up to the top of the largest hill we could find. In total, we walked for around 3 hours, without ever really exerting ourselves too much.
Word of advice. Remember to actually wear your walking boots which you had brought with and put in your car to wear later - or you will be reduced to scrambling up muddy Yorkshire hills in a pair of flat shoes from Jack Jones.
This oversight prompted me to buy some outdoor shoes which I could also drive in - hopefully ensuring there will not be a future repeat of that episode. I bought a pair of Keen's from Cotswold for £110.00 RRP (15% off if you're a member of most outdoors/climbing societies or clubs).
Have not yet had the opportunity to take them out for a spin properly, but I have been wearing them in over the past few days and they feel great. Also, if like me you have a particularly wide foot, Keen produce a range of outdoor shoes that cater for the wide-footed adventurer.
In sum. Visit Bolton Abbey. Visit the Yorkshire Dales. Take some photos. But most importantly...
Always find the time to skim some stones with your mates.
