Bolton-by-Bowland was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1087. At that time, it was recorded as "Bodeton," meaning "bow in the river."
The village boasts two picturesque village greens. The smaller green features the remains of a 13th-century market cross and stocks, surrounded by the meticulously cared-for Memorial Garden.
Historical records indicate the presence of a church in the village as early as 1190. Today, St Peter and St Paul's Church welcomes visitors seeking peace and reflection. The church is renowned for its exquisite ornamental carvings and a font dating back to 1500, which displays the heraldic arms of prominent families such as the Pudsay, Percy, Tempest, and Hammerton families. The famous Pudsay tomb is an extraordinary feature, depicting Sir Ralph Pudsay in full armor, alongside engravings of his three wives and 25 children.
In medieval times, the village was known as Bolton-in-Bowland, a nod to its location within the changing boundaries of the ancient Forest of Bowland, where it lies on the forest's southeastern edge. However, the manor of Bolton-by-Bowland was historically part of the Percy family's estates and was never included in the Lordship of Bowland.
The village is situated along Skirden Beck, close to its meeting point with the River Ribble.
Bolton Hall was home to the Pudsay family from the 14th century until 1771, when the family line ended with the death of Bridget Pudsay, who left no heirs.
During the Wars of the Roses, Bolton Hall played a pivotal role in English history. After his defeat at the Battle of Hexham in 1464, Henry VI, the last Lancastrian king, sought refuge at the hall as a guest of Ralph Pudsay. Legend has it that during his stay, the king discovered a natural spring by dowsing; this well, known as "King Henry's Well," still exists on the Bolton Estate and is visible from a nearby public footpath. Upon his departure, Henry left behind a pair of boots, gloves, and a spoon. Although Bolton Hall was demolished in the 1950s, its legacy lives on in the private development now occupying the site, aptly named King Henry’s Mews.
The village church, St Peter and St Paul, stands prominently between the two greens. While some parts of the church date back to the 13th century, much of its structure was constructed in the mid-15th century under the patronage of Sir Ralph Pudsay. Tradition holds that Henry VI, during his stay at Bolton Hall, influenced the church's design. Later, Sir Ralph's grandson, Henry Pudsay, added a chapel to the south of the chancel in the early 16th century.
A monument to Sir Ralph Pudsay, who passed away in 1468, can be found in the archway between the chancel and chapel. The intricately carved tomb depicts Sir Ralph in full armor, accompanied by his three wives and their 25 children, with their names inscribed. The church also features an octagonal sandstone font from the early 16th century, adorned with the coats of arms of prominent local families, including the Pudsay, Percy, Tempest, and Hammerton families.
The village provides practical amenities such as a car park, public toilets, and a tourist information centre. It also serves as a starting point for many scenic walking trails in the area.
Bolton-by-Bowland is a serene and captivating village, brimming with history and charm. The smaller of the two greens holds the remnants of a 13th-century stone cross and ancient stocks, symbolizing its rich heritage. Nearby, Rainsber Scar overlooks the River Ribble, offering breathtaking views. Locally known as "Pudsay’s Leap," it is said that William Pudsay leaped across the scar on horseback while being pursued by soldiers for illegally minting his own coins.