Valley of Desolation

Valley in Yorkshire Craven

England

Valley of Desolation

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [1] Leaving the Cavendish Pavilion, the track enters woodland.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles. — A circular walk along the River Wharfe [1] Credit: Michael Dibb

The Valley of Desolation, located in Yorkshire, England, is a picturesque and atmospheric valley renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Situated within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this valley attracts numerous visitors each year.

The Valley of Desolation is characterized by its rugged and dramatic landscape, featuring steep cliffs, rocky outcrops, and a meandering river. The valley gets its name from the desolate appearance it presents, with its rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. Despite its somewhat eerie name, the valley is anything but desolate when it comes to wildlife and plant species. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including peregrine falcons and kestrels, along with numerous wildflowers that bloom during the spring and summer months.

Visitors can explore the valley via a network of footpaths, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in nature's beauty. The valley offers a range of activities, including hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting. The scenic beauty of the Valley of Desolation has made it a popular destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers.

In addition to its natural wonders, the valley also has historical significance. The ruins of a 19th-century lead smelting mill can be found within the valley, providing a glimpse into the area's industrial past.

Overall, the Valley of Desolation in Yorkshire offers visitors a unique and captivating experience, with its rugged landscape, diverse wildlife, and historical remnants. Whether seeking solitude in nature or an adventure-filled hike, this valley is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

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Valley of Desolation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.006129/-1.8803459 or Grid Reference SE0756. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [1] Leaving the Cavendish Pavilion, the track enters woodland.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [1]

Leaving the Cavendish Pavilion, the track enters woodland. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [2] The river, seen from the path near the Sulphur Well.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [2]

The river, seen from the path near the Sulphur Well. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [3] The river looking upstream, seen from the path.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [3]

The river looking upstream, seen from the path. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [4] Away from the main track, this lower path is close to the river.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [4]

Away from the main track, this lower path is close to the river. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [5] The way returns to the main track from the lower path.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [5]

The way returns to the main track from the lower path. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [6] The path leads through woodland alongside the river.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [6]

The path leads through woodland alongside the river. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [7] The river is very tranquil along this stretch.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [7]

The river is very tranquil along this stretch. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [8] The track is now somewhat higher above the water.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [8]

The track is now somewhat higher above the water. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [9] The river makes a bend to the right.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [9]

The river makes a bend to the right. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [10] The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning &#039;turmoil&#039;. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to &#039;the possibility of striding across&#039;.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [10]

The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning 'turmoil'. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to 'the possibility of striding across'. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [11] This part of The Strid looks deceptively calm. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning &#039;turmoil&#039;. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to &#039;the possibility of striding across&#039;.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [11]

This part of The Strid looks deceptively calm. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning 'turmoil'. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to 'the possibility of striding across'. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [12] A view of the top of The Strid as the river narrows. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning &#039;turmoil&#039;. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to &#039;the possibility of striding across&#039;.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [12]

A view of the top of The Strid as the river narrows. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning 'turmoil'. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to 'the possibility of striding across'. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [13] The path continues through calm and peaceful Strid Wood in contrast to the tumult of the river below.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [13]

The path continues through calm and peaceful Strid Wood in contrast to the tumult of the river below. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [14] The river is wider here before it begins to narrow to The Strid.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [14]

The river is wider here before it begins to narrow to The Strid. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [22] Looking upstream from the path which is now high above the river.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [22]

Looking upstream from the path which is now high above the river. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [23] Seen from the path a small stream trickles down towards the river.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [23]

Seen from the path a small stream trickles down towards the river. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles.

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [24] The Strid is seen from the path high above. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning &#039;turmoil&#039;. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to &#039;the possibility of striding across&#039;.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [24]

The Strid is seen from the path high above. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning 'turmoil'. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to 'the possibility of striding across'. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [25] The Strid is seen from the path high above. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning &#039;turmoil&#039;. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to &#039;the possibility of striding across&#039;.
Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles

A circular walk along the River Wharfe [25]

The Strid is seen from the path high above. The Strid is a 15 foot (4.6 m) deep underwater channel caused by the narrowing of the river from 90 ft (27 m) wide, just to the north, to the width of a long stride less than 300 ft (91 m) later. It is especially dangerous as both banks are undercut. Its name comes from the Old English Stryth, meaning 'turmoil'. This was later corrupted to Strid, referring to 'the possibility of striding across'. Starting from the Cavendish Pavilion, the walk follows the west bank of the River Wharfe upstream, passing The Strid, to the Barden Aqueduct Bridge. Crossing to the east bank, the walk continues downstream to return to the starting point. Just over 3½ miles

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Valley of Desolation is located at Grid Ref: SE0756 (Lat: 54.006129, Lng: -1.8803459)

Division: West Riding

Administrative County: North Yorkshire

District: Craven

Police Authority: North Yorkshire

What 3 Words

///braved.presenter.stuff. Near Addingham, West Yorkshire

Nearby Locations

Posforth Gill Valley of Desolation Laund Pasture Plantation

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 54.006129,-1.8803459

Valley of Desolation

Description: owes its name to the desolation caused by the great storm in 1826. Nature has long since repaired the devastation.

Is In: UK,Yorkshire,North Yorkshire,Nidderdale

Is In Country: UK

Is In County: North Yorkshire

Is In Historical County: Yorkshire

Natural: valley

Source: NPE

Lat/Long: 54.0073893/-1.8785578

North Nab

Is In: UK,Yorkshire,North Yorkshire,Nidderdale

Is In Country: UK

Is In County: North Yorkshire

Is In Historical County: Yorkshire

Natural: peak

Source: NPE

Lat/Long: 54.003999/-1.8777366

Valley of Desolation Waterfall

Natural: waterfall

Waterway: waterfall

Lat/Long: 54.0055823/-1.8818267

Barrier: yes

Lat/Long: 54.0081412/-1.8795192

Natural: waterfall

Waterway: waterfall

Lat/Long: 54.0048449/-1.8821632

Bench

Lat/Long: 54.0039957/-1.8828165

Ford: yes

Lat/Long: 54.0095243/-1.8765182

The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

Hell Gill Yorkshire

Collier's Dean Northumberland

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