A chic hideaway that marries contemporary comfort with its Dales heritage, The Devonshire Fell is lucky to have one of those rare locations in breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. It stands on the northern edge of the Duke of Devonshire’s Bolton Abbey Estate, and the Duchess has overseen the hotel’s renovation and choice of interiors. Each of the 16 bedrooms is individually and stylishly furnished and equipped with those little extras that ensure absolute comfort. Dogs are welcome in some of the rooms; after all this is superb dog walking country. Immensely popular with locals and guests alike, the restaurant offers tempting, freshly cooked food that reflects the seasons. Head chef Rob Harrison’s modern cuisine – simple ingredients cooked perfectly – is matched by a world-class wine list. Guests are offered free access to the luxury spa at its sister hotel, the Devonshire Arms at Bolton Abbey, just a 10-minute drive or an easy 6-mile walk following the Dales Way along the banks of the river Wharfe.
Overlooking the river Wharfe, the popular village of Burnsall and the hills of the Yorkshire Dales it is tempting just to sit and soak up the view. But, there is much to see and do in this part of the Yorkshire Dales from the magnificent Malham Cove with its limestone pavement to the wonderful gardens at Parcevall Hall. Situated at the northern edge of the Duke of Devonshire’s Bolton Abbey Estate guests are free to explore the estate’s 80 miles of footpaths and hiking trails alongside riverbank, through woodland and up on to the fells. Take time to visit the church and ruins of Bolton Priory.
Fresh local produce is of course, evidently abundant on Rob Harrison’s selection of simply delectable dishes on offer at The Fell. This two AA rosette restaurant boasts some of The Dales most spectacular views from its large picture windows and in conservatory area, which is bound to tempt diners to linger just a while longer in this relaxed space. The décor and colours are punchy and contemporary, as is much of the original artwork, most of which is curated from The Duke and Duchess’s private collection.
All guests receive complimentary spa access during their visit with us, but we recommend one of our luxury Temple Spa treatments for those wanting to truly relax. The unique series of holistic treatments combine traditional European and Eastern Philosophies, releasing tensions and restoring a sense of absolute well-being. Visit the Bolton Abbey Estate village shop for souvenirs or pop into Keelham’s award winning farm shop at Skipton.
Nota Bene
The hotel overlooks the five arched bridge that spans the river Wharfe which is reputedly the most photographed bridge in the Yorkshire Dales. William Craven, a poor man’s son from nearby Appletreewick went to London as an apprentice, became a successful merchant and was made mayor of London in 1611. With his wealth he endowed the Burnsall Grammar School, restored the church and bore the cost of rebuilding the five arched bridge. He was known as Wharfedale’s “Dick Whittington”.
