Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip

Embark on an adventure through the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and experience the historic abbeys of the area on the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip. Starting in the city of Harrogate and ending in Bolton Abbey, this 82 mile journey is best experienced over two days, allowing you to take your time and explore the many attractions along the way. The best time of year to drive is during the spring and summer months when the rolling green hills and lush pastures are in full bloom. You will be surrounded by stunning landscapes and spectacular views as you make your way to the abbeys. The roads are generally in good condition, although there are some narrow roads along the way. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. With its combination of stunning scenery, historic abbeys, and memories to last a lifetime, the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip is an experience not to be missed.

Harrogate is a beautiful town in North Yorkshire, England, and is the perfect starting point for the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip. Here, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and explore the many attractions in and around the town. Harrogate is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Royal Pump Room Museum and the historic spa town. There are also numerous parks and gardens to explore, including the Valley Gardens and the RHS Harlow Carr Gardens. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including walking and cycling trails, and water sports. The closest international airport to Harrogate is Leeds Bradford International Airport (LBA). From here, visitors can rent a car and begin their Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip. Car rental services are available at the airport, with a variety of vehicles available to suit all budgets. Once on the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and visit the many abbeys located in the area. These include Fountains Abbey, Bolton Abbey, and Rievaulx Abbey, all of which are stunningly preserved and offer a great deal of history and culture. Harrogate is a great starting point for the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip and offers a wealth of attractions and activities for all visitors to enjoy. Whether looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous experience, Harrogate is the perfect place to begin exploring the beauty of Yorkshire.

Get ready for an exciting road trip starting in Harrogate, England! This 29 mile journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the area. On the way, you'll pass through Ripley and Fountains Abbey, where you can explore the ruins of the 12th century Cistercian abbey. Finally, you'll end your journey in Jervaulx, where you can wander around the picturesque grounds of the abbey. In some sections, the roads are narrow, so be sure to pay attention to your surroundings. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the wonders of England!

Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your tour takes you from Jervaulx, England, through Middleham, and finally to Hawes. This 21mi drive takes fewer than 1 hours and offers some of the most beautiful and interesting sights in the region. Starting in Jervaulx, you'll find a beautiful 12th century abbey and the ruins of a castle. Middleham is home to a stunning castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and is surrounded by stunning countryside. Finally, in Hawes, you'll find a beautiful market town, with plenty of shops and cafes. The route takes you through some of the most picturesque roads in the region, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the views. Along the way, you'll find plenty of opportunities to explore the countryside, as well as some great places to stop for a bite to eat. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your tour. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a wonderful road trip through the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales National Park! Starting in Hawes, you will quickly reach Buckden, a picturesque village surrounded by the stunning countryside. Make sure to stop and take in the views! From Buckden, the road will take you through the beautiful countryside, passing by rolling hills and lush valleys. Keep an eye out for some of the narrow sections of the road, and enjoy the scenic views. After about 2 hours of driving, you will arrive at Bolton Abbey, a beautiful Abbey set within the stunning landscape. Here you can take a stroll around the grounds and admire the historic buildings and ruins. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Bolton Abbey is the perfect ending point for a road trip along the Yorkshire Abbeys. Located in the heart of North Yorkshire, it is easy to reach by car from any of the nearby cities. Bolton Abbey's historical buildings, stunning scenery, and tranquil atmosphere are worth the visit. The abbey itself is a 12th century ruin, with the remains of a beautiful Norman church, cloisters and a chapter house. Visitors can explore the grounds, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Bolton Abbey also offers many activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking in the River Wharfe, as well as horse riding and cycling. For those looking for a more active day, the Strid Wood is a popular spot for walking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. Bolton Abbey also has a great selection of pubs and restaurants, providing the perfect way to end the day. For travelers coming from further afield, Leeds Bradford International Airport (LBA) is located just over an hour away by car. Bolton Abbey is the perfect place to finish a road trip along the Yorkshire Abbeys and explore the history, scenery and activities of North Yorkshire.

Before you set off

Embark on the Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip, a captivating journey through the idyllic Yorkshire countryside, steeped in history and natural splendor. Starting from the elegant spa town of Harrogate, you'll traverse 82 miles of scenic landscapes, culminating at the enchanting ruins of Bolton Abbey. Ideally, allocate two days for this excursion to savor the sights and experiences along the way thoroughly.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The expedition leads you through a tapestry of breathtaking scenery dotted with majestic historic abbeys, each with its own story. Notable stops include:

• Fountains Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is one of the largest and best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in England.
• The atmospheric ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, nestled in a remote valley, offering a glimpse into the tranquility of monastic life.
• Jervaulx Abbey, privately owned and set in beautiful parkland, known for its wildflowers and traditional English tea room.
• The romantic ruins of Bolton Abbey, where the dramatic landscape has inspired artists and poets for centuries.

Best Time to Go:

Late spring to early autumn offers the most favorable weather, with wildflowers blooming in spring and the moors awash with purple heather in late summer. The verdant landscapes in these seasons provide a photogenic backdrop for your journey.

Potential Risks:

While the main Roads are well-maintained, some of the country lanes leading to the abbeys can be narrow and winding. Be mindful of passing places and use caution when navigating these charming yet less-traveled Roads.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This adventure suits all driving experience levels and doesn't require a lavish budget. Along the route, you'll find ample opportunities for picnics, photography, and learning about Yorkshire's monastic history. The Trip is about the journey as much as the destinations, offering an insightful look into the region's past while enjoying its present beauty.

Interesting Facts:

• Fountains Abbey was founded in 1132 and operated for over 400 years until its dissolution under Henry VIII.
• Rievaulx Abbey played a significant role in the wool industry and was one of the wealthiest abbeys before its collapse.
• Bolton Abbey is actually the name of the village and estate; the abbey itself is known as Skipton Priory.
• The abbeys are not only historical sites but also habitats for wildlife, including bats, owls, and various bird species.

A good choice for:

The Yorkshire Abbeys Road Trip is a journey into the heart of Yorkshire's past and present. It's perfect for those who cherish both the serenity of nature and the echoes of history, ensuring an enriching and picturesque driving experience.