It’s the midway point for half-term in West Yorkshire, and if you’ve exhausted most options when it comes to occupying the time of the little ones (and perhaps some older ones, too), then we have the solution for you.
West Yorkshire boasts having the almost perfect balance of urbanisation and nature; one minute, you could be in the thick of it in Leeds City Centre or getting to Wakefield Train Station, and then 30 minutes later you find yourself amongst the scenery - and serenity - of one of the many natural hotspots the region has to offer. Edge a little further north, and they get even more spectacular.
We’ve collated our 13 favourite walks for all the family for all walks of life, pun intended. Be it the youngster burning off energy rolling through the hilly areas of Huddersfield, or just taking in the surroundings, parked up on a park bench at Middleton, the only thing you’ll need to plan for is the weather - we’ve also included addresses where you need to travel to.
So, looking to finish off the half-term break with a little nature? Read on to find out our picks.
7. Fairburn Ings RSPB Nature Reserve (Castleford)
Perfect for wildlife lovers and quiet walks. It's a vast nature reserve with a variety of pushchair-friendly trails, bird hides (great for a sit-down rest while watching nature), and seasonal activities tailored for families, offering a great chance to spot local and migratory birds. 📍 Fairburn Ings, Castleford, WF10 2BH | Provided
8. Ogden Water Local Nature Reserve (Halifax)
A beautiful spot nestled in the hills near Halifax. It features a large reservoir surrounded by mixed woodland. The path around the water is mostly surfaced and level, making it easy walking for families. It’s excellent for picnics, nature spotting, and getting away from the city buzz. 📍 Ogden Lane, Keighley Road, Halifax, HX2 8XZ | Provided
9. Chevin Forest Country Park (Otley)
Provides a great 'mountain' feel without a massive climb. The forest park offers spectacular panoramic views over the Wharfe Valley and Otley. Look out for the Heritage Time Trail, a 3 km route featuring fantastic chainsaw sculptures that turn the walk into a fun treasure hunt. 📍 East Chevin Road, Otley, LS21 3DD | Provided
10. Swinsty and Fewston Reservoir Circular (Otley)
These two linked reservoirs offer an extensive, well-surfaced walk with stunning scenery in the Washburn Valley. The route is often on water authority paths, which are relatively level, making it popular for pushchairs. You can easily choose between the 3-mile Swinsty loop or the longer, combined route. 📍 Swinsty Moor Car Park, Near Otley/Harrogate, LS21 2NP | Archive
11. Scammonden Dam (Huddersfield)
A rewarding 5.1 km (approx.) route around Scammonden Reservoir. While the terrain can be undulating with some steps, it’s a popular route for families and often features various sculptures and artworks dotted around the circuit to keep children engaged on a treasure hunt. 📍 Yorkshire Water Car Park, Scammonden, Huddersfield, HX6 4LD | Yorkshire Post Newspapers
12. Harewood Circuit (Harewood)
This is a free public walk on a loop (approx. 7.6 km/5 miles) outside the main Harewood Hall grounds. It follows the perimeter, allowing you to enjoy views of the magnificent house, the deer park, and the surrounding estate parkland, often spotting the resident Red and Fallow deer herds. 📍 Village Hall or Muddy Boots Cafe on Church Lane, Harewood, LS17 9LJ | Yorkshire Post Newspapers