Bolton Abbey’s history stretches back to the 1100s, when it was founded as a peaceful retreat for Augustinian monks on land gifted by Lady Alice de Romille from nearby Skipton Castle. For nearly 400 years, the priory thrived as a place of worship and reflection until the 1530s, when Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries forced its closure, leaving much of the abbey in picturesque ruins.

Thanks to the stewardship of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Bolton Abbey has been carefully preserved over the centuries. Today, visitors can roam the estate, admire the striking priory ruins, and even attend services in the still-active nave. It’s a spot where history lingers in every corner, offering a blend of timeless beauty, rich heritage, and a sense of living tradition.