The seasons are changing, the leaves turning that autumnal orange, and the weather has turned distinctly cool as we head into the winter months, but that shouldn’t stop you from taking advantage of the last of the daylight hours with a walk around one of the many incredible locations in and around Leeds this autumn.
Despite the cooler temperatures, many people feel that an autumnal walk is a unique, beautiful experience, with many people preferring to walk around this time of year compared to any other season - admittedly, it has been getting hotter than usual during the summer months in the UK.
Before the chance is too late and the inevitable biting climates of the winter months arrive, we’ve picked 15 of our favourite, magical walks available to those in and around Leeds; from popular haunts such as Roundhay Park and Temple Newsam, to the historical merits of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and Kirkstall Abbey.
So, will you don the scarf and hat and check out one of our autumnal walk recommendations this season? Read on to find out where we think you’ll experience the magic of a walk during the autumn months in and around the city.
1. Meanwood Valley Trail
The Meanwood Valley Trail is seven mile linear walk runs from Woodhouse Moor, along the Meanwood Valley through to Breary Marsh, next to Golden Acre Park. Meandering through pretty woodland along a relatively flat route, it is fit for all abilities. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
2. Leeds and Liverpool Canal
A flat, easy-going walk that follows the towpath of the historic canal. It offers a unique perspective on the city's industrial past and a peaceful waterside environment. You can start this walk from various points, but a popular one is near the Leeds city centre at Leeds Dock. | Submitted
3. Trans Pennine Trail
You can join the long-distance Trans Pennine Trail route from Knowsthorpe Quay, just 10 minutes from Leeds Dock. The Garforth to Woodlesford section is a particularly scenic part of the trail, offering countryside autumnal views. Photo: Terry Carrott
4. Gotts Park
A public park located on a hill, offering views over the surrounding area. It's home to a golf course but also has accessible public footpaths. The park is accessible from Armley Ridge Road, with a car park near the golf clubhouse. | Simon Hulme
5. Roundhay Park
One of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a variety of walks around its two lakes (Waterloo and Upper Lake), woodlands, and gardens. There are multiple car parks, but the Lakeside car park near the café is a very popular place to start a walk around Waterloo Lake. | National World
6. Otley Chevin
Walkers can enjoy spectacular views across the market town of Otley from the Chevin, which boasts a large park network of woodland paths awash with autumn colours, and panoramic views of the Wharfe Valley. | James Hardisty