We have been to Bolton Abbey many times over the years, and have always enjoyed the visit, on some visits we have walked one of the many trails on others we have just sat and enjoyed the views sometimes taking a picnic or having a snack from the café. We park at the Cavendish Pavilion a very large area with a bar-b-que section at the far end.
However on our last visit the day was spoilt by a none existent parking system the place had become a large car park with exits blocked by parked cars because whole areas had been taken up by people erecting tents the size of tennis courts bar-b ques were lit every where cars driving round in circles looking for a place to park.
Bolton Abbey now seems to have a new mantra TAKE THE MONEY AND BE DAMMED.

Wonderful day out on a sunny day.
Good signage to Bolton Abbey.
Beautiful ruins by the river.
£7 for parking all day per car but it is worth it as it is a very well kept state. There are a couple of varied walks along the river.
The pavillion has been refurbished since we last went there and sells hot drinks and food as well as sandwiches.
If you park to the left of the car park you can have BBQs on nicelly kept lawns.
Plenty to do and fantastic views.

The title says it all - the walks, the scenery and Bolton Abbey - all outstanding. There is a tea room on route although we didn't go into it. Bolton Abbey is just beautiful and a visit to the church is so peaceful, the stained glass windows are wonderful. There is so much history in that Abbey and it's so easy to stand there and soak it all up and let the busy world just pass you by. There is no fee to visit the Abbey but there is a cost of £7 per car, which we thought a little steep but they have to make money somehow.