Footpath leading to The Valley of Desolation, Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales, England, UK.

Footpath leading to The Valley of Desolation, Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales, England, UK. Photographed 5th July 2024.

The Valley of Desolation near Bolton Abbey was so named after a very destructive storm occurred over Barden Fell in 1836. Strong winds, heavy rain, lightning and flash floods caused huge damage leaving many of the original oaks uprooted. Over many years, the indications of damage have disappeared as natural re growth has taken place.