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Sunday 15 August 2010

Bolton Abbey

This is a clearer view of Bolton Abbey ruins, the Priory Church and its graveyard (where, incidentally, the famous Yorkshire & English cricketer Fred Trueman is buried.) Nestled into a bend in the River Wharfe, it is an idyllic spot, beloved by locals and tourists alike. The Bolton estate around it has miles of lovely walks along the river banks and through ancient woods. There are several famous beauty spots including the Strid, a point where the generally broad river suddenly narrows and rushes through a steep chasm among the rocks.

PS: History note - the abbeys and monasteries all over England were deliberately dissolved, by King Henry 8th around 1536 - the English Reformation - when he made himself 'Supreme Head of the Church of England' and split from Papal authority. (In part because he wanted his marriage annulled, which the Catholic church would not allow). Once disbanded, the buildings fell into neglect and much of the stone was stolen and used for other buildings. That's why we have so many ruined abbeys in England.

11 comments:

  1. pity they let the Abbey go to ruin. Here in New Zealand, we watch a lot of British programs. Like Hotel inspector. Now I am watching sissinghurst.

    Thanks for visiting

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  2. I'm strolling there with Jane Austen in my mind...What a lovely place! and , so english! :)

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  3. Leave it to an egotistical man to mess things up. Though I'd love to go there and see all of the ruins.

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  4. Thanks! Now, my question about why so many ruins is answered. I like this shotfrom afar.

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  5. It still retains its beauty.Looks like a large cemetery also, does it date that far back?

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  6. Beautiful scenery.
    A pity the place is in ruins.
    Costas

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  7. Nice perspective shot encompassing the entire abbey and some of its beautiful grounds. It looks like it would be a great place to wander about and take photos.

    Thanks for the reminder in your history note. It has been quite a few years since I took English history in college.

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  8. I love this view! It's gorgeous. So wonderful to see this and think upon the history.

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  9. Fantastic!!! Beautiful shot too.

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  10. I like that the ruin is not destroyed and trucked off somewhere. It is a beautiful scene.

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  11. You always have the most interesting historical tidbits for us along with your capture of such stunning settings. WOW! ~Lili

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