Skipton Moor, Bolton Abbey and Barden Moor
A proper long day stitching together terrain most runners split into two separate outings. Bolton Abbey woods make a welcome change of scene at the halfway mark.
Effort: Long day out, serious climb
Underfoot: Some uneven or off-path ground
E4·T2 — how we grade routesA proper long day stitching together terrain most runners split into two separate outings. Bolton Abbey woods make a welcome change of scene at the halfway mark.
A long moorland and valley circuit from Skipton linking three distinct landscapes — Skipton Moor, the wooded river at Bolton Abbey, and the high ground of Barden Moor.
The route
From Shortbank Road above Skipton, the route climbs Skipton Moor then descends to the River Wharfe at Bolton Abbey. After passing the priory ruins, the route climbs onto Barden Moor for the return — a big open plateau before the descent back towards Skipton.
Logistics
At 28km, this is a half-marathon-plus effort. The midpoint at Bolton Abbey is a natural bail-out if needed, and the Cavendish Pavilion café provides a mid-route resupply.
Boggy moorland on Skipton Moor and Barden Moor. Grouse shooting August to December. Some road miles on approach and return.
Summits on this route
Safety on this route
- No signal? Text 999 — pre-register first: text register to 999
- Tell someone your route and expected return time before you head out
Common questions
More routes in Yorkshire Dales
EASY
VERY HARD
MODERATE