(Image: Getty)
The Yorkshire Dales is not only popular with Yorkshire locals but also with people from across the UK who travel to explore the national park.
If you are looking for a long walk that will allow you to see many parts of the Yorkshire Dales, you might want to try the Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation trail.
The walk starts in Bolton Abbey, where you can book a room at the Devonshire Arms Hotel if you want to extend your stay in the area.
The circular trail has been described as “one of the best walks in the Yorkshire Dales” so might be worth visiting the park for.
What is the Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation trail like?
The walk is 18km long and takes around five and a half to six hours to complete.
The trail is “gorgeous” and takes you around many popular spots in the Yorkshire Dales.
The route features “lovely views and scenic paths” as well as going past Bolton Abbey, the Valley of Desolation, Simon’s Seat, and the Barden Bridge.
During the walk, you will see waterfalls and forests where you can spend time relaxing.
After climbing up many hills, you will reach the summit of Simon’s Seat and be able to enjoy the views of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales.
One of the waterfalls you will pass is called Posforth Gill Falls and is described as a “highlight” on the trail.
At the end of the walk, you can spend some time exploring Bolton Abbey, including a sweet treat in the Abbey Tea Rooms or a meal at the Devonshire Arms Brasserie.
What do hikers say about the walking trail?
The walk has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 on AllTrails with 1,214 people leaving reviews about their experience.
One reviewer said: “Absolutely gorgeous trail!
“The views on the way up and down are mouth-watering.
“It's a varied walk and not one bit of it is boring.
“Well maintained and easy to follow path, parking quite expensive 15 pounds but we'll worth it as you can explore the Bolton Abbey grounds and the gorgeous Church.
“They are several cafe's and toilets in the car park , there's even a book shop!
“The trail gets quite steep after about 1.5 of walking if you go clockwise but then it's a nice gradual descent into awesome sounding Valley of Desolation.”
Another reviewer said: “Really great walk with varied scenery, stop at the brownie bar for lunch and refreshment.
“Would start early morning to avoid the crowds.
“Going clockwise felt a little steeper at times then counterclockwise, but rewarding with the view at simon's seat and then the waterfall towards the end.”
Would you like to complete this Yorkshire Dales trail? Let us know in the comments.