Winter Walking Routes to Explore in Leeds

Discover Leeds’ outdoor spaces with a variety of winter walks

Leeds offers a range of walking routes for those looking to enjoy the outdoors during the winter months. From historic sites to extensive parks and countryside trails, residents and visitors can find suitable walks both within the city and in surrounding areas.

Historic and landscaped locations

One notable destination is Kirkstall Abbey, located approximately three miles from Leeds city centre. The ruins of this 800-year-old abbey provide a scenic setting for a winter walk, particularly when frosted or illuminated by winter sunlight.

On the opposite side of the city, Temple Newsam and Lotherton Hall offer landscaped gardens and grounds open throughout winter. Both sites include cafés with takeaway options, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments during their visit. The houses at these locations also provide indoor attractions to explore.

City parks and green spaces

Roundhay Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe, covers over 700 acres of parkland, lakes, woodland, and gardens. The park features the Lakeside Café, which offers a variety of takeaway snacks and drinks.

Leeds city centre also has walking opportunities along the waterfront, where visitors can see new artwork installations. Several coffee shops are located near the route, including Kapow Coffee at 46 The Calls, BAKE at Mustard Wharf, and Laynes Espresso near Leeds train station.

Additional green spaces in Leeds include Pudsey Park and Golden Acre Park, both providing further options for winter walks.

Larger countryside walks

Harewood House, with its 4,000 acres of grounds, combines formal gardens designed by Capability Brown with wilder countryside, forests, lakes, and a castle. Visitors can pre-book access to the grounds, which include the Terrace and Himalayan gardens, as well as facilities offering takeaway hot drinks and snacks. Dogs on leads are permitted.

For those seeking a longer walk, the Meanwood Valley Local Nature Reserve offers a seven-mile signposted route starting near the northern edge of the city centre. This walk passes through urban areas, meadows, watercourses, and woodland, with views of local wildlife and remnants of the area’s industrial history.

Extended walking challenges

The Dales Way Link is a 20-mile route beginning in Leeds and heading north through green spaces, the market town of Otley, valleys, and into the Yorkshire Dales. The walk finishes at the Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley, on the Leeds/Bradford border. Public transport services provide connections back to Leeds city centre.

These walking options offer a variety of experiences for different abilities and preferences, encouraging exploration of Leeds’ natural and historic environments during the winter season.