Fishing at Bolton Abbey. What a way to spend some time by the River Wharfe

From nothing more than a little trickle, the journey of a river can often reflect our own state of mind. Some just meander along, while others can be angry and dark, or are so sluggish they need a bit of rain to perk them up. Every river is different and like us their moods can change.

Maybe that’s just what draws us to them. We can relate to their journey with our own trials and tribulations.

But they’re aren’t just a reflection of our own journey through life. They also have the power to make us feel happier and healthier, according to a study from King’s College in London. They keep us grounded in the present moment, top us up when we feel a bit flat and make us realise what we’ve got.

Soothe your annoying itch

Rivers are the antidote to an over stimulated mind that can feel like an itch you’ve just got to scratch. And we’re convinced we can find the cure for that itch by spending some time by the river you can find here at Bolton Abbey.

Alluring, mysterious and surrounded by spellbinding beauty, the River Wharfe in the Yorkshire Dales is certainly one spot you’d want to add to your list visiting this part of the world.

And you’d expect us to say that, wouldn’t you. But if you know anything about The Strid or have watched the Tales from the Riverbank on Channel 5, you’ll know exactly what we mean.

Apart from The Strid, you’ll also encounter the contrasting landscapes along the river, from woodland to meadows.

The Strid. Always awe-inspiring and one of the sights that captivate so many people here at Bolton Abbey

It’s enough to make you drool

Whether you’re coming here to relax, or looking for something to do by the river, here are a few ideas to get you thinking…and moving.

Always up there as one of the most popular outdoor pastimes in the UK, fishing is the perfect opportunity to spend some time by the river.

Our five mile stretch has all kinds of swims and pools that would make any river angler positively drool. From shallow rapids, smooth glass-like glides under overhanging trees and swirling eddies to slow moving deep runs, you’d be extremely hard-pressed to find something that doesn’t pique your interest.

This fly only stretch will certainly test your ability, but on the other hand will make the experience of catching a fish even more memorable. Also, as a member, you might want to invite a guest for the day and show them how it’s done, especially if they’re relatively new to fly fishing.

Your tackle box for mental health

In fact, taking someone fishing is just one of many initiatives during National Fishing Month, a yearly campaign encouraging anyone to take up or reignite their love for fishing, so there’s no better time than the present to get a few fly fishing lessons under your belt and become a member!

But it’s more than just catching fish. It’s that sense of belonging you get when you connect with nature and feel as though you’re part of something bigger.

The health benefits can’t be underestimated. Now recognised by the NHS as a socially prescribed form of treatment for those dealing with depression, fishing teaches you to concentrate, problem solve and stimulate your creativity – skills you can take into other areas of your life.

Learn to fly fish during National Fishing Month and you might catch a beautiful Brown Trout just like this specimen from the River Wharfe

One organisation that supports people with mental health issues regardless of their fishing experience is Tackling Minds. But if fishing isn’t quite your thing and you’d rather do something more physical, another popular pastime many of our visitors enjoy as their fix is a walk by the river.

These boots are made for walking

Taking your first step with anything new can often be the hardest. So why don’t we suggest a walk through Strid Wood?

As an ancient wood with the river running through it, you’ll find a variety of Beech, Elm, Sycamore and Oak, some of them nearly 300 years old. It’s also home to the Strid and many tree nesting birds such as the Pied Flycatcher and the Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Strid Wood is a site of special scientific interest and has many trails you can explore

All our trails are clearly signposted to help you if you’re not the best with your sense of direction. You’ll also get a welcome leaflet with a map when you arrive, showing all of our riverside trails.

We’d call it perfect

Once you’ve got a feel for the place, why not make your visit a little more adventurous with a picnic? You might as well. Eating alfresco, on a summer’s day, by the river? Come on…you have to admit, that sounds pretty damn good and so quintessential British.

Our picnic tables at the Bolton Abbey and Riverside car parks really come in dead handy if you’re looking for a spot not too far from your vehicle and don’t want to sit at ground level.

So, whatever your reason for visiting us, whether that’s to fish, walk, exercise, bird spot, picnic or propose the river can be your loyal companion.

Your safety matters

But as your companion, for all its charm, especially on a hot sun-kissed day, the urge to go in the river can be too hard to resist.

Please always be mindful that water equals danger, wherever you happen to be along the river, because your safety matters.

Don’t assume it’s only dangerous where it’s deep. The water temperature even at the height of summer can be a lot cooler than you think and also catch you by surprise. And that’s not all. The river can fool you into thinking it’s shallow where it isn’t while strong undercurrents and an uneven river bed could also knock you off your feet.

We’re just telling you this because we want you to be safe by the river.

Please spare a moment to go through our visitor leaflet when you get here and pay attention to all our signs along the water. They’re here to protect you.

Spending time by the river really can nourish your soul, engage with your senses and make you feel alive. So you’re in need of a boost, find some time to chill at Bolton Abbey over the summer.

Pre-book before the day of your visit to take advantage of our early bird discount.

The River Wharfe is a beautiful river but also an unpredictable one, so please think of your safety and the safety of others