With National Bike Week (June 8 - 14) just around the corner, there has never been a better time to tune up your gears, dust off your helmet, and explore the incredible variety of cycling trails weaving right through the heart of Leeds...
... and not merely weaving through foot traffic in Briggate or Albion Place.
Whether you are looking for a flat, family-friendly afternoon cruise along our historic waterways or a hard-core weekend endurance test out into the Wharfe Valley, data from cycling app Komoot reveals that Leeds riders are spoiled for choice.
To help you plan your next ride, we have rounded up 9 of the highest-rated cycling loops starting in and around the city, ranked from easy Sunday afternoon spins to full-day challenges, alongside the distance you’ll have completed once the trip is complete.
1. Kirkstall Bridge Inn – Canal Path loop from Horsforth
A fantastic, mostly flat introduction to Leeds cycling. Utilising well-paved canal paths, this route takes you past the iconic Kirkstall Flyboat and features the legendary Kirkstall Bridge Inn - the ultimate mid-ride or post-ride pit stop for a refreshing pint by the water. 🚴♂️ 17.4 km | National World
2. Woodlesford Lock – Lemonroyd Marina loop from RSPB St Aidan's
A stunning, wildlife-heavy route that starts at the breathtaking RSPB St Aidan's Nature Reserve. Following smooth, mostly paved towpaths along the River Aire, you'll cycle past Woodlesford Lock and Lemonroyd Marina. It is flat, scenic, and packed with birdwatching spots. 🚴♂️ 31.2 km | jpimedia
3. Newlay Lock – Forge Locks loop from New Pudsey
Exploring the industrial heritage of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, this loop takes you across beautiful locks and tree-lined paths. It is highly accessible for all skill levels but requires a decent baseline of fitness to comfortably manage the 26km distance. 🚴♂️ 26.0 km | Local Library
4. Saltaire World Heritage Site – Bingley Five Rise Locks loop from New Pudsey
A brilliant cultural ride that takes you slightly west of the city border. You'll glide past the spectacular architecture of Saltaire before tackling the path alongside the famous Bingley Five Rise Locks - the steepest staircase lock in the UK. 🚴♂️ 36.3 km | Local Library
5. Apperley Bridge Marina – Saltaire World Heritage Site loop from Burley Park
Starting from Burley Park, this substantial 40km loop bridges the gap between Leeds and Bradford via the waterfront. With mostly paved surfaces, it offers a smooth, uninterrupted run out to Apperley Bridge Marina and back. 🚴♂️ 40.1 km | Local Library
6. Lemonroyd Marina – RSPB St Aidan's Nature Reserve loop from Burley Park
For those wanting a longer afternoon in the saddle without severe hill climbs, this 45km trek links the inner city out to the sweeping landscapes of the south-east Leeds green corridors. 🚴♂️ 45.2 km | Local Library