Simon's Seat is a prominent outcrop of millstone grit, visible for many miles around and lying close to Bolton Abbey. The name is associated with a story concerning a baby found by a shepherd boy who was named Simon.
- Highest point 485m (1591 feet)
- Summit has a trig point surrounded by large gritstone boulders
- The heather moorland is managed to breed red grouse
- Part of the Bolton Abbey Estate belonging to the Duke of Devonshire
A superb and popular first peak for many people which is normally started from the Cavendish Pavillion at Bolton Abbey. The walk takes you up the Valley of Desolation, which is actually very pretty, with a lovely waterfall and pleasant woods. Its name actually comes from a large flood event many years ago.
The route continues up onto heather moorlands. The peak itself is a collection of gritstone outcrops – pick an easy route and admire the view over Wharfedale. The route is well signed and the paths good, with parking available at Cavendish Pavillion which is also a great spot for tea and cake.
This walk is on permissive paths and open access land and the Estate do not permit dogs because of the potential disturbance to birds which nest on the ground.
