Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN LEEDS
Planning a cycling holiday in Leeds? Brilliant idea. This lively Yorkshire city is surrounded by green countryside, crisscrossed with canal paths, and buzzing with bike-friendly routes for all levels. Whether you're bringing your own bike or hiring one locally, you’ll find a mix of chill city rides and rewarding rural tours. In this guide, we break down the best bike routes across Leeds using kilometres, so you can enjoy every stretch with no conversion headaches. Let’s explore Leeds on two wheels — the local way.
Ride the Leeds to Kirkstall Abbey loop
A short and scenic route with historic vibes
Looking for a relaxed ride that delivers on both nature and history? The Leeds to Kirkstall Abbey loop is your go-to route. It’s about 13 kilometres round trip and mostly follows the River Aire, giving you a peaceful path with hardly any car traffic.
Start from the city centre and hop onto the Aire Valley Towpath. This canal-side trail is flat, easy to follow, and takes you right to the incredible ruins of Kirkstall Abbey — a 12th-century monastery that’s perfect for a break or picnic. The loop back offers slightly different views, especially if you cross the river and return on the opposite bank.
It’s perfect for beginner cyclists, families, or those who just want a stress-free ride with a proper Leeds backdrop. You’ll pass ducks, rowers, and maybe even a heron or two if you're lucky.
Length: Around 13 km loop
Surface: Mostly canal towpath, flat and firm
Scenery: River, abbey ruins, greenery
Best for: Beginners, easy sightseeing
Stops: Kirkstall Abbey, Armley Mills, Aire Valley Trail
This is one of those rides where you can take it slow, soak in the history, and feel like you’ve discovered something a bit magical — all within a stone’s throw of the city centre.
Cycle the Leeds Liverpool Canal to Rodley and beyond
Classic towpath riding with nature and pubs
If you’re up for a longer day ride, the Leeds Liverpool Canal is a must. Start in central Leeds and follow the canal towpath heading west. After about 10 km, you’ll reach Rodley — a lovely spot with waterside pubs and plenty of benches to rest.
Want to go further? No problem. Keep pedalling toward Apperley Bridge or even Saltaire (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and you’ve got yourself a full-blown adventure through industrial history and natural beauty. The surface is mostly gravel and compacted dirt, so hybrid or touring bikes are ideal.
This ride is super peaceful — expect birdsong, narrowboats, and not much else. Bring snacks, and don’t forget your camera for the charming stone bridges and locks you’ll pass.
Length: 10 to 40+ km (depending on how far you go)
Surface: Gravel, hard-packed trail
Scenery: Canal, countryside, heritage sites
Best for: Longer tours, nature rides
Stops: Rodley Nature Reserve, Apperley Bridge, Saltaire
This is one of those rides that’s as long or as short as you want it. The canal makes navigation easy and the views are calming the whole way — perfect for a full day on the bike.
Tackle the Meanwood Valley Trail
Woodlands, streams, and a bit of a challenge
If you’re after a more rugged and off-road experience, the Meanwood Valley Trail is the one. It starts near Woodhouse Ridge and winds its way north through wooded parks, streams, and open countryside, eventually reaching Golden Acre Park after roughly 11 km.
This one’s better suited for confident riders or those with mountain or hybrid bikes, as the terrain varies — expect dirt, roots, and a few short but punchy climbs. But the payoff? Absolute forest magic. It’s hard to believe you’re still in Leeds once you’re deep in the trail.
Bring water, maybe a sandwich, and wear something you don’t mind getting a little muddy. And if you ride out and back, you’re looking at a 22 km mini-adventure in the woods.
Length: 11 km one way
Surface: Natural trail — dirt, roots, grass
Scenery: Forests, streams, fields
Best for: Intermediate riders, nature seekers
Stops: Meanwood Park, Adel Woods, Golden Acre Park
It’s wild, it’s local, and it’ll definitely give you a new side of Leeds. If you’re up for a little mud and magic, this trail is calling your name.
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