Leeds is the largest city in Yorkshire and has beautiful historic buildings, delicious cuisine and several charming coffee shops, meaning it won’t disappoint those looking for an urban adventure. As Leeds is so big it has loads of great spots for city and woodland walks in West Yorkshire.
The outskirts of the city centre definitely have a few local record-worthy sites and some lovely local woodland walks. Before we reveal our favourite walks in Leeds though, you should know that the city offers plenty of bike rental services. So, you can catch the train up to Leeds via Northern lines and leave the stress of driving at home to fully enjoy your day out.
1. Meanwood Valley Trail (A Leeds City Walk)
Nearest station: Burley Park
Distance from train station: 17-minute walk to Woodhouse Moor, where the trail starts.
Offering a 7-mile linear trail, the stunning Meanwood Valley Walking Trail in Leeds meanders through lush woodlands to reach Breary Marsh.
This nature reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and features rolling meadows, ponds, and streams. For a lovely day out in nature, there is no more seemingly remote place than the Meanwood Valley.
This is a great walk for all abilities, but can be muddy and overgrown in places as it's a wild area, so be mindful when bringing the kiddos.
2. Middleton Woods Ilkley Walk
Nearest station: Ilkley
Distance from train station: 19-minute walk
The Middleton Woods Walk will take you into the largest expanse of ancient woodland in West Yorkshire, where you couldn’t feel further away from the busy city of Leeds.
On this trail, you'll find plenty of historical and archaeologically important sites, such as bell coal pits and old tram tracks. Oaks are the predominant tree, with magical copses of birch and beech, sycamore and sweet chestnut scattered throughout. Listen out for the hammering of woodpeckers, or try and spot the tiny, curve-beaked tree creeper.
In spring, bluebells carpet the ground, with delicate wood anemones and vibrant celandines, and as summer approaches, butterflies appear in abundance. The wood is beautiful, and a fantastic place to bring your family and furry friends.
3. Hawksworth Wood Circular
Nearest station: Kirkstall Forge
Distance from train station: 13-minute walk
The Hawksworth Wood Circular is a beautiful 6.7-mile Leeds city and canal walk through some of the best scenery that North West Leeds has to offer. The walk takes you through the wilds of Hawksworth Wood, past the stunning Kirkstall Abbey, and along the River Aire before looping back around via Newlay Bridge and Leeds Liverpool Canal towpath.
Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning views of wildflower meadows, woodpeckers, and maybe even spot a roe deer!
The walk is a great way to get some fresh air and is suitable for any fitness level. Whether you're a keen walker or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the Hawksworth Wood Circular is well worth a visit.
4. The Dales Way Walk
Nearest station: Ilkley
Distance from train station: 15-minute walk to the Old Bridge.
If you're looking for a challenging hike in Leeds, The Dales Way Walk is one of the most popular. For almost 60 years walkers have followed this lengthy 80-mile trail spanning across woodlands and lakelands.
The route starts at the Old Bridge in Ilkey and heads northwest through the Yorkshire Dales National Park before finishing at Bowness-on-Windermere in Cumbria, giving the perfect backdrop to photos of your hike.
The Dales Way walk is a great way to see the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. It's also the best way to spend time with family and friends or for anyone looking for a challenging but rewarding walking experience.
5. City Walks Leeds
Nearest station: Leeds
Distance from train station: 10-minute walk
Taking two big loops through Leeds city, the folks at Ramblers.org have devised a fabulous Leeds city walk for you to enjoy.
Leading you almost 5 miles for 2 hours, this walk guides you through some of the major sights of the city, including the Town Hall, Dark Arches, Temple of Edfu, and the City Museum.
Perfect for a self-guided tour of the city, this walk is sure to lead you to every nook and cranny in Leeds city centre, as well as past plenty of cafes and restaurants for when exploring has you footsore.
There are plenty of great walks in Leeds, from easy city rambles to countryside trails, so why not explore for yourself soon? When planning your trip, you can save up to 60% on your Northern train tickets when you book in advance. Dogs are also welcome on all of our trains, meaning they can join as you explore some of the best walks in Leeds!
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.