Days Out: Bolton Abbey

The Augustinian priory and church lies on the banks of the River Wharfe in 30,000 acres of beautiful Yorkshire Dales countryside.

There’s almost 80 miles of footpaths where you can admire the breath-taking scenery from all angles, making it the perfect place for a cosy winter walk.

Experienced walkers can head up the Valley of Desolation towards Simon’s Seat where they will find spectacular views across the surrounding countryside to Grimwith Reservoir and across Appletreewick Moor.

For families with young children, Strid Wood is the perfect place to amble along the banks of the river as it meanders through the woods, which is one of the most visited in the Yorkshire Dales.

Be sure to bring the little ones between December 17 and January 2 when the wood will be transformed into a festive pantomime trail. Help them look for their favourite panto scenes and characters before warming up with a delicious hot chocolate and cake at the Cavendish Pavilion riverside café.

The abbey’s stunning ruins will also play host to an outdoor nativity play on December 20. Starring farm animals and young, willing members of the audience, performances will last between 30 and 45 minutes and admission is included in normal entry prices. Mulled wine and mince pies will also be on sale in the Boyle Room.