The best cycling in Leeds – the routes you need to try!

Whether you're chasing a weekend adventure or a more relaxing morning pedal, there's a cycle route for every level. It's little wonder that many young professionals are choosing to relocate to this urban hot spot. Considering a move to Leeds? Browse our Leeds apartments to find your perfect home.

The best cycling routes in Leeds

Salt Mill loop from Burley Park

Considered an intermediate route for those with a good fitness level, the Salt Mill Loop from Burley Park covers Salt Mills, Weir, and Saltaire.

The starting point at Burley Park Railway station is accessible by public transport, and you can expect to pedal 41.3 km. During your ride, you'll pass along plenty of canal towpaths, traffic-free sections, and greenway-style paths as you progress through the Leeds and Liverpool canal.

It's important to note that while this two-to-three-hour cycle is pleasant, there are plenty of uneven surfaces to navigate, and you may even encounter some diversions, but you won't know until the actual day.

Wetherby Circular

The Wetherby Circular route is a disused railway line path between Spofforth Castle, Wetherby, and Thorp Arch covering roughly 32 miles.

Regarded as an expert bike route, expect to enjoy a very peaceful pedal with mostly traffic-free sections. Be prepared to push your bike through some sections of your journey.

The Wetherby Circular is officially called "Route 665" on the National Cycle Network, and you can start your ride from Wetherby Town Centre, and enjoy a scenic route through Harland Way, Walton Village, Thorp Arch/Trading Estate, Boston Spa, Clifford/Bramham and back to Wetherby.

Aire Valley Towpath

Aire Valley Towpath is an exciting cycling route that follows the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The route takes in both urban and countryside areas, and links to several interesting places. The Aire Valley Towpath, lasting a total of 16 miles, moves through Kirkstall Abbey near Leeds, Bramley Fall, Rodley Nature Reserve, Apperley Bridge, Saltarire (Victorian Village, a World Heritage Site, Dowkey Gap, and finishes at Bingley Five Rise Lock.

The ride can be done in one day as it takes 16 miles each way. There's plenty of opportunity to complete the journey, stop, sightsee and even break for a late lunch at one of the best cafes in Leeds before you head back.

Otley Chevin Circular

Forming part of the picturesque market town of Otley, the Otley Chevin Circular route is a 10.4-mile journey taking roughly 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours, starting at the Otley town centre and following the River Wharfe path or ending at the town centre where you began.

During your ride, you'll take in breathtaking views of Wharfedale, Chevin Forest Park, Yorkgate Stone Gateposts, & The White House, a historic landmark. Why not jump off your bike and enjoy a stroll around the forest? Chevin Forest Park is a stunning location and one of the best walks in Leeds.

This route is moderately challenging, with steep climbs to the Chevin Ridge, but riders will enjoy rewarding views and a fun, exciting descent.

The Lines Way

The Lines Way is a relaxed pathway in Leeds, which follows part of a disused railway line. This delightful traffic-free route travels from the small town of Garforth, just outside Leeds, through lovely countryside, passing a nature reserve and an RSPB site, along a river and canal, ending at Woodlesford station. Part of the journey forms sections of the National Cycle route 697.

Taking roughly 4 miles, this path has traffic-free sections, walks, ponds, woodlands, hedgerows, stunning views, and you might even see horses on the way. Because of its off-road greenway, this section is suitable for leisure cycling, walking, and family rides.

Armley Mills to Kirkstall Abbey & Rodley Nature Reserve

The Armley Mills to Kirkstall Abbey & Rodley Nature Reserve is a delightful, friendly 10.5-mile route. Starting at Armley Mills, Leeds Industrial Museum, and passing through Kirkstall Abbey to the Rodley Nature Reserve, via canal and towpath sections.

Enjoy mostly traffic-free, steady, quiet roads, with plenty of sightseeing to be done. Don't forget to wander through the Rodley Nature Reserve and see wildlife, wetland habitats, and stop for a bite to eat at the cafe. Kirkstall Abbey provides ruins to explore, parkland, and a great place to rest on your travels.

Headingley Loop

Headingley Loop is a 20-mile route perfect for beginners and less experienced riders, and makes an excellent family cycle day out. If you’re looking for a picturesque cycle, the Headingley Loop doesn't disappoint. Pass through the Golden Acre Park, Adel Dam Nature Reserve, Eccup Reservoir, and villages, such as Arthington and Bramhope, before returning to Headingley on a loop.

Ride-wise, expect a moderate journey with plenty of countryside lanes, rolling hills, and gentle climbs. It's not ultra-flat, but it's accessible to riders with a decent fitness level.

Shell Lane Bridleway

The Shell Lane Bridleway - Whitehall Bridge Loop From New Pudsey, Shell Lane Bridleway is considered an intermediate ride, with mostly paved surfaces. Covering a distance of 27 km with an elevation of 210 m of ascent and moderate climbing. During your roughly two-and-a-half-hour ride, mostly on paved surfaces, expect to travel through urban areas, green corridors, and some canal towpaths.

As with most Bridleway tracks, bear in mind that you may come across horses or walkers, so always remember to give way.

Found your favourite cycling route? Find your perfect home next

From scenic canal towpaths to rolling countryside loops and family-friendly cycle lanes, Leeds is a cyclist's dream location. Love cycling? Love adventure and the outdoor lifestyle? Want to start your day with a ride through stunning landscapes or along vibrant urban streets? Why not make Leeds your home? Contact us today to book a viewing of our amazing apartments in Leeds city centre.