The Strid
The River Wharfe is squeezed into a rock channel only a few metres wide; its current is fierce and its depths unknown, said to be the most dangerous stretch of river in England.
The Strid lies within the ancient Strid Wood north of the Bolton Abbey estate, where the broad River Wharfe suddenly narrows into a rock channel about 2 metres wide. On the surface it looks calm, but the water is deep, with hidden currents and underwater caves. Many people have drowned trying to leap across, so keep well away from the rock edge. The old oak woodland is of special scientific value, and in spring bluebells carpet the ground. It is about a 15-minute walk from the Cavendish Pavilion car park along level woodland paths, and you can follow the river on to the Barden Tower aqueduct.
Opening hours
All day (part of Bolton Priory estate)
Nearby sights
- Bolton Abbey
- Stump Cross Caverns
- Grassington
- Skipton Castle
- How Stean Gorge
- Kilnsey Crag
- Brimham Rocks
- Gordale Scar