From woodland trails and festive markets to dinner dates and winter breaks, there are plenty of reasons to visit Bolton Abbey this season.
Bolton Abbey is one of the most beautiful destinations in North Yorkshire, promising miles of moorland, woodland and riverside footpaths. But there’s so much more to discover, especially as the seasons shift. Follow the river through Strid Wood, stop for something warm at The Cavendish Pavilion and discover festive trails, markets and celebrations across the estate.
Whether it’s an afternoon outdoors or a night away, here’s what’s happening at Bolton Abbey over the coming months.
For everyone
Credit: Estate Escapes
Take an autumn walk. Bolton Abbey is especially beautiful during autumn, and this walk showcases the best of the estate. Start at the village green, pass through the Hole in the Wall and follow the path past the Priory to the river. Cross the footbridge beside the stepping stones, then choose the riverside path or the higher woodland route for views of the Priory and Barden. Both lead towards The Cavendish Pavilion – cross the wooden bridge and stop for a well-earned hot drink.
Refuel with crumbles, crêpes and more. The Cavendish Pavilion is a welcome stop after a walk, with sandwiches, hot food, cakes and coffee on the menu. Crumble Corner launches during half-term, serving hot crumble with custard or ice cream, while the crêpe and churro van visits during school holidays and on December weekends.
Increase the pace at Run Bolton Abbey. The trail running event returns for its 10th year on Sunday 8th November 2026, raising money for Sue Ryder’s Manorlands Hospice. Take your pick from a half marathon, 10-mile, 10K or fun run, with routes through parts of the estate usually closed to the public. A tree will be planted on the estate for every runner.
For families
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Follow the Pumpkin Trail. Pick up a trail sheet from the Cavendish Shop, then enter Strid Wood for a half-term adventure. Follow the giant pumpkins and search for the mystery boxes to solve the puzzle. The trail runs from Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November 2026.
Meet Father Christmas. Book a visit to Father Christmas’ Village, where children can try their hand at bushcraft activities. There’ll be fire lighting, storytelling and crafts, along with marshmallow toasting and reindeer hoopla. Then it’s time to meet Father Christmas in his cosy cabin and take home a gift. Visits run on selected dates from Saturday 21st November to Wednesday 23rd December 2026.
Solve the 12 Days of Christmas mystery. Strid Wood gets a festive makeover from Saturday 28th November 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027, when the 12 Days of Christmas trail returns. Pick up an activity sheet from the Cavendish Shop and follow clues inspired by the Christmas carol as you walk through the woods. Can you solve the mystery before you reach the Strid?
Make the most of Kids Eat Free. Visiting during October half-term? Head to The Brasserie at The Devonshire Arms for a midweek meal before 6:30pm, and you can get one free children’s main course with each adult main course ordered. With the likes of fish and chips, tomato pasta and sausage and mash up for grabs, even the pickiest eaters are catered for.
For couples & friends
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Browse the artisan Winter Markets. Make a date to browse Bolton Abbey’s artisan winter markets, set to take place across the first two weekends in December. Local makers will be selling handmade gifts and seasonal treats, from hand-poured candles and bath sets to festive wreaths, cakes and bakes. There’ll be live entertainment on each weekend too.
Make your own Christmas wreath. Join RHS Chelsea silver medallist and Devonshire Arms florist Vanessa Wellock for a half-day workshop at the Christmas Village. She’ll show you how to build a wreath with foliage and pheasant feathers, then finish it with dried oranges, pine cones and ribbon. All materials are provided, and you don’t need any experience.
Escape to Bolton Abbey for the night – or longer. There’s nothing quite like a winter break in the Yorkshire Dales. This winter, you can get two nights for the price of one at The Devonshire Arms or The Fell Hotel, giving you time to explore the estate, enjoy a festive meal and unwind at The Devonshire Spa. Estate cottages are also 30% off stays from Monday 4th January to Wednesday 31st March 2027 when you book using the code WINTER.
For food lovers
Credit: Estate Escapes
Celebrate Bonfire Night in style. Make Bonfire Night one to remember at The Devonshire Arms. Feast and Fireworks kicks off with a glass of fizz and canapés, followed by a three-course dinner featuring seasonal dishes. After dinner, wrap up and head outside for a stunning pyro display set to music.
Indulge in festive dining. The Brasserie’s festive menu launches on Friday 20th November 2026, giving you an excuse to gather for a Christmas meal at The Devonshire Arms. For an afternoon catch-up, there’s festive afternoon tea in the Garden Room, with seasonal savouries and sweet treats to enjoy at your leisure.
Enjoy an early dinner for less. Book a weekday lunch or early dinner at The Brasserie and you’ll get 30% off your food. There’s plenty to explore on the menu, from crab crumpet with pickled cucumber, to the Devonshire pie of the week, served with triple-cooked chips. The offer is available Monday to Friday for tables booked between 12pm and 12:30pm, or between 5pm and 6pm.
Cover image credit: Estate Escapes
