An English and American Day Out in Yorkshire

Sunday saw us have our first family day out in Yorkshire since returning 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 a British and American culture on a family 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 from us was shut and we ended up having to make a detour through the village and farm fields. Despite this taking extra time, I love these kind of detours.

The narrow roads that are centuries old, yet meticulously maintained lead you through winding farm lanes, sometimes too narrow 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.

Bolton Abbey

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 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!

From there we let the girls take their shoes off and paddle in the river. There were families picnicking along the sandy beach-like river bank, 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 Parlour

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!

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Family Success On A 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!

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