Family friendly routes for walking in Leeds

Walks around the Civic quarter. Civic Hall steps. Photo attribution: Ben Dalton

The depth and beauty of the countryside surrounding Leeds is nothing new to those familiar with the city, and in particular those that like a challenging ramble or just a gentle, romantic stroll. Many Loiners enjoy a short drive to Ilkley or Bolton Abbey to appreciate the scenic charm that lies on our doorstep, others delight in the huge expanse of Otley Chevin Park and the stunning views and compelling wildlife it offers.

Ideas for healthy walks in Leeds

Still, whilst there are numerous great country walks to be enjoyed on the outskirts of Leeds, there are several within the boundaries of the city that will stretch the limbs, blow off the cobwebs and even stimulate the grey matter, when the need arises.

Historical Leeds

Starting at Leeds Bridge and ending at Temple Mills, Holbeck this walk is short but in terms of time can be extended by studying the historic buildings en route. From Leeds Bridge you walk up Briggate and along Boar Lane up to Mill Hill, and having studied the various sights in City Square, you head off under the Dark Arches, down Water Lane and Globe Road, ending up at Temple Mills.

Along the way you encounter numerous buildings of historical significance such as the Holy Trinity Church and the Griffin Hotel, the various statues in City Square, the famous canals that served the mills and various other buildings significant in the industrial revolution.

Civic Pride in Leeds

This is a good walk for people who are maybe new to Leeds and want to appreciate some of the civic history in place. Starting at the LGI you can do a short circular route taking in Great George Street, the Headrow, Cookridge Street and Millennium Square.

En route you see the Medical School and St. George’s Church, the Law Courts and the imposing Town Hall, the Art Gallery and Henry Moore museum, St Anne’s cathedral and the Leeds Museum. Finally at the top of Millennium Square is the beautiful Civic Hall.

Ghosts in Leeds

Organised tours setting off from the Town Hall steps take in the many haunted buildings of central Leeds, such as the Town Hall itself, the central library, pubs and other buildings around the famous shopping arcades.

Programmed in the evening and great value at 90 minutes long, the accompanying commentary is fascinating as the tour discusses scenes and incidents of ghosts, poisonings, witches and murders and brings a whole new perspective to the city centre that you probably never knew existed.

Kirkstall to Leeds via Canal

The Leeds/Liverpool canal is 127 miles long and is walkable throughout its length. Inevitably, however, some stretches are more pleasant than others. Possibly the best in terms of scenery, wildlife and points of interest is the 4 mile stretch from Kirkstall into Leeds city centre.

Starting at the Abbey House, follow the signs for Abbey Mills but basically head towards the canal. You then follow the black plaques identifying the ‘Leeds Waterfront Heritage Trail’, although once you are on the canal you can’t really go wrong. Approximately halfway down the route you encounter Armley Mills, which has a museum of industrial heritage, and before long you finish up in Granary Wharf, having passed several locks and barges on the way.

Roundhay Park

In north east Leeds lies the gargantuan Roundhay Park, at 700 acres; an oasis appearing from nowhere. Whilst you may hear stories of it always being busy don’t let this stop you going because there is plenty of space for everyone.

Circling the vast lake at your own pace is an idyllic way to pass an hour, and the rolling grass fields or green forest that surround it also allow for gentle exercise at a distance to suit you.

If you are planning a family day of fresh air and activity, Roundhay is ideal for children; with ample safe paths for bikes and acres of grass for ball games, and you cannot fail to entertain the kids when there are ducks in the lake to be fed. The lakeside café is also a must-visit location for refreshments.

Golden Acre Park

On the A660 Otley Road heading out of north west Leeds towards Bramhope, is Golden Acre Park. Formerly an amusement park opened in 1932, Golden Acre Park contains plenty of history itself, but now consists of a lake, mature woodland, beautiful gardens and an adjacent wildlife nature reserve.

Paths allow for walks of varying distance depending on your mood and the café near the car park is well placed to keep you going if you fancy another lap.

So, all in all, Leeds as a city can offer a great variety of walks depending on your mood. It can relax you, challenge you, amaze you and entertain you whilst all the time appreciating the rich resources Leeds can offer.

Leeds Map

Browse the map and click on the pins to find the location of the places featured in this guide.