Sunday saw us have our first family day out in Yorkshire since moving back to the UK after an eight-year absence. As the final celebration for my daughter’s 7th birthday, we went to a pre-booked lunch at Billy Bob’s Parlour – an American themed diner nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Pennines. As it was en-route, we decided to combine our day trip with a visit to Bolton Abbey. Today was a weird mix of very British and American day out in Yorkshire.
Sunday Family Fun Day
We set off at about 09.00am. Unfortunately, due to road works, the main route to Skipton as shut and we ended up having to make a detour through the village and farm fields. Despite this taking extra time, I love these kinds of detours.
The narrow roads that are centuries old, yet meticulously maintained lead you through winding farm lanes, sometimes too tight for two cars to pass each other. Bordered on either side by short stone walls that give you glimpses of picturesque quintessentially English farm dotted with fluffy sheep and lazy cows. The green fields stretch for miles, as far as the eye can see.
The only breaks in this stunning scenery are the quaint little villages you come across, with their stone houses, cottage-style gardens and beautifully maintained village greens with a local post office which serves the community as a one-stop-shop.
First Stop – Bolton Abbey
COVID Update: Bolton Abbey is open – we were there in mid-June 2020. You need to pre-book parking as they are restricting entry though. Please refer to their website for the most up to date information.
On reaching Bolton Abbey, we parked the car and walked to the Abbey. We paid £10 entrance for our car, and that covered entrance to the Abbey and the whole estate. The Abbey itself is breathtaking. We only had enough time to spend about an hour there, and that was definitely not enough time. Next time we plan a trip there we will go prepared with a picnic and spend the day.
The Stepping Stones at Bolton Abbey
If you go for a day out in Yorkshire to Bolton Abbey, you have to try the stepping-stones that cross the River Wharf. There are 60 stones in total. There is the option to use the footbridge, but Nooo. The girls wanted to try the stones. So the five of us set off. As usual, my eldest, and fearless adventurer set off in front of us. Five stones in and she realise that it wasn’t as easy as it looked. With my husband behind her and the youngest behind him, he quickly panicked and decided the best way to protect them was to carry the five-year-old who was now terrified! Slowly but surely the five of us made it over the stones.
When you look down with the river slowly flowing past the small stepping stone you are standing on, you almost get a sense of vertigo or dizziness. After much giggling, and with a little more confidence after the half-way point, we all made it to the other end dry! I did not get pictures of this as I was terrified of dropping my phone in the water. Haha … not my kids, my phone! Yup – I’m a mommy blogger. Besides, Dad had it all under control!
We Made It Over The Stepping Stones!
From there we let the girls take their shoes off and paddle in the river. There were families picnicking along the sandy beach-like riverbank, with kids and dogs splashing in the cool water. It was a warm 28°C but a little cloudy which was nice as it shielded us from the sun’s harsh rays. Next time, this will definitely be where we set up camp.
With an advance booking made for lunch, we set off for Billy Bob’s Parlour. This time we crossed over the river using the footbridge instead! lol
Billy Bob’s Ice-Cream Parlour
COVID Update: They are trying to gradually open taking into consideration government guidelines. Please refer to their website for the most up to date information.
Nestled in the remote hills of the Yorkshire Pennines is Billy Bob’s Parlour. A purely American themed diner that encompasses all things American. Their awesome menu includes shakes, sodas, hot dogs and burgers, as well as pancakes, waffles and a huge ice-cream flavour selection. They also boast two amazing out-door children’s play areas. One is completely outdoors, and the other is under cover of a barn roof with a hidden soft-play area and adventure hale-bale play area too.
Advance booking is encouraged or else you risk not being able to get a table. You place your order at the counter, and pay. Not even 10 minutes later your drinks arrive. Your food arrives about five minutes after that. The atmosphere, service and food & drinks was all perfect! I would highly recommend a visit if you’re planning a day out in Yorkshire!
A Great Family Day Out In Yorkshire
It’s safe to say that our family day out in Yorkshire today was a total success. The girls were well-behaved. The trip was scenic and not too far away. Everyone left with full tummies and we exposed the girls to a little bit of history and culture as well. A ‘family win’ in my books.
Don’t forget to pin this to your family travel pinterest board!
Comments
Looks like a great adventure to go on! I love that you found an American food restaurant.
I know. It was so random! ?
This looks absolutely beautiful and great fun for the kids and bonus finding the American restaurant. I love pancakes lol! Great read.
I know! I had to try be healthy and had a hot dog instead, but next time it’s pancakes!
Wow, it looks amazing! Wish I was there to hear and listen to all the history with you. I am so happy you had an awesome birthday weekend! Love seeing everything you guys are finding and exploring. Miss you and enjoy the good weather xxx
It’s already cooled down a bit. Hopefully the warm comes back but I was back to jeans and trainers yesterday.
Sounds like a lot of fun BUT a whole adventure with those stepping stones… Don’t drop the phone! Bloggers LOL.
Glad you finding your family rhythm there x
haha … my priorities are so bad!
I’d love to visit Bolton Abbey, it looks lovely! I hope you’re all settled back in the UK! Xx
We’re getting there thanks. Loving the warmer weather.
I live fairly close by and don’t take advantage of this place often enough. Probably because the traffic to get there is insane. We love Billy Bobs too – it was very busy when we went but had such a great times!
The traffic was crazy with the A59 shut for a huge portion of the trip, but it was nice to see the little country lanes.
How wonderfully delightful. I felt like I was with you. Thank you
Did you really like it? Will take you when you come to visit.
Im in darlington. We love north yorkshire #mixitup
Maybe you can send me a few ideas of things to do and places to visit out your side.
The diner sounds fab and we love the randomness of the location! We’d like to explore Bolton Abbey one day too x #DreamTeam
It’s definitely worth it. There is probably enough out there to make a weekend of it!
Love the stepping stones! #DreamTeam
Oh it looks so lovely! Lovely photos too. #KCACOLS
I am coming back through to give you some #GlobalBlogging love!
Thank you xx
Now I”m coming back through with some #DreamTeam love!
I wouldn’t expect to see an American diner in such a scenic area but it looks like a great place to eat! Thanks for linking up with #KCACOLS hope you can join us again next time 🙂
This looks amazing my friend! What an incredible experience you are all having!!!! Can’t wait to bok my ticket 🙂 #KCACOLS
I was almost holding my breath as you all crossed those stepping stones! I love Yorkshire but have never been to Bolton Abbey. Beautiful. #kcacols
Next time you are there you must give it a go! It’s fun and surprisingly exhilarating!
I love Yorkshire! Lots of things to do here for the summer hols and what amazing memories made! I’m visiting in August! #KCACOLS