Abbot Hills

Tucked away in the Southern Dales near Skyreholme, this modest summit offers a quieter alternative to the popular Simon’s Seat. The terrain is characterized by rough grazing and gritstone edges, providing an uncrowded feel typical of these lesser-visited fells, with expansive views south across the Wharfedale and Washburn valleys.

• •The name likely originates from the historical ownership of these pastures by the Abbots of Fountains Abbey, who managed vast sheep-runs across the Wharfedale fells during the Middle Ages.
• •The hill is often climbed as part of a circuit including the dramatic limestone ravine of Trollers Gill, which lies immediately to the south and provides a stark geological contrast to the gritstone summit.
• •From the highest point, the view is dominated to the east by the impressive gritstone battlements of Simon's Seat, while the prominent landmark of Beamsley Beacon is clearly visible to the south across the valley.
• •Despite the ecclesiastical name, the only congregation you are likely to encounter at the summit today is a huddle of Swaledale sheep looking for a break in the wind.