This fantastic walk up the valley of the seven bridges and Studley Royal circular has some spectacular views and makes for a beautiful walk! It’s lovely to explore some of the area around Fountains Abbey and can easily be tagged onto a visit there for a great day’s outing.
Distance: Approximately4 miles
Terrain: Grassy paths, track and surfaced paths. Suitable for an off-road buggy, or something robust with big wheels. No stiles.
Facilities: Toilets and restaurant at Fountains Abbey visitor centre and a cafe at Studley Royal. National Trust Admission into Fountains Abbey is not required.
Parking: At National Trust Fountains Abbey Visitor Centre. Free.
Route: The route is really easy!
Follow points 1-5 on this route from the National Trust. From the visitor centre, take the path towards Studley Royal that follows the main drive, entering the park at the gates next to the church. Head down the grassy path to your right- signposted towards Studley Lake. The route follows the front of the Lake and joins the Seven Bridges path.
The path exits the National Trust property and follows the river bed; you can turn right to cross the stream and continue on the suggested National Trust Route, but we continued on the track that bends to the left. The track goes slightly uphill and hives great views towards Ripon Cathedral. The path eventually turns to a surfaced road that brings you to the Studley Roger entrance of the park and up the hugely impressive driveway! Once at the church you can retrace your steps back to the visitors centre or enter the Fountains Abbey Estate next to the Lake- where it is a mile from here to your starting point..
The pictures really don’t do the views here justice. It’s a brilliant route and great for families who want to explore some of beautiful area.